Chinoike Jigoku Beppu
Beppu's 'Bloody Pond Hell' mesmerizes with its naturally crimson, iron-rich waters, a unique geothermal spectacle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Chinoike Jigoku Beppu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Beppu's 'Bloody Pond Hell' mesmerizes with its naturally crimson, iron-rich waters, a unique geothermal spectacle.
"The water's deep reddish-brown because of iron oxide is kind of cool, but not mind-blowing."
🚗 Public Transport is Key
Chinoike Jigoku is a bit further out; use local buses or rent a car. Walking from other hells involves slopes . :bus:
🎟️ Combined Tickets Save
Consider a 'Jigoku Meguri' pass for access to all seven 'Hells' to save money and time . :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Bloody Pond
Main attraction
Witness the striking, deep crimson water, naturally colored by iron oxide. A truly unique sight!
Foot Baths
Near the main pond
Relax your feet in the warm, mineral-rich waters, though some find them only lukewarm.
Gift Shop
Adjacent to the entrance
Browse unique souvenirs and local crafts related to the Beppu 'Hells'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Beppu Hells
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Public Transport is Key
Chinoike Jigoku is a bit further out; use local buses or rent a car. Walking from other hells involves slopes.
:bus:🎟️ Combined Tickets Save
Consider a 'Jigoku Meguri' pass for access to all seven 'Hells' to save money and time.
:ticket:💧 Foot Bath Warmth Varies
Enjoy the foot baths, but note some visitors find them only lukewarm.
:foot:🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
The gift shop offers unique items, making it a good last stop for 'Hell' souvenirs.
:gift:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Public Transport is Key
Chinoike Jigoku is a bit further out; use local buses or rent a car. Walking from other hells involves slopes.
:bus:🎟️ Combined Tickets Save
Consider a 'Jigoku Meguri' pass for access to all seven 'Hells' to save money and time.
:ticket:💧 Foot Bath Warmth Varies
Enjoy the foot baths, but note some visitors find them only lukewarm.
:foot:🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
The gift shop offers unique items, making it a good last stop for 'Hell' souvenirs.
:gift:📸 Capture the Crimson
The unique red water is the main draw; aim for good lighting to capture its intensity.
:camerawithflash:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chinoike Jigoku is praised for its unique, blood-red waters caused by iron oxide, offering a visually striking experience. Visitors appreciate the convenience of the gift shop and the opportunity for a relaxing foot bath. However, some find the foot baths to be only lukewarm and note that the site is a bit further from the main cluster of 'Hells,' requiring specific transport arrangements.
"Not too crowded. This hotspring is a bit further away from the rest. Need to have car or use public transportation. Not recommended for walking from other hotspring because its a slope road!"
Aim Sirampuj
"This and the Umi hell are my favourite. It also has one of the largest shopping area. Good to have it as your last stop to do all the shopping for hell that you want."
E K
"Hot spring with red colour unique appearance. Fee admission is 500¥/person now."
Sunny
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Beppu Station, you can take a local bus (e.g., Kamenoi Bus lines 26, 26A, or 21A) towards the 'Hell Tour' areas. Chinoike Jigoku is one of the further stops, so check bus routes carefully. Alternatively, renting a car offers more flexibility for visiting all the 'Hells'.
While technically possible, it's not recommended to walk from other 'Hells' to Chinoike Jigoku as it's a bit further out and involves uphill roads, which can be tiring.
Yes, taxis are readily available in Beppu and can take you directly to Chinoike Jigoku. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to navigate public transport.
The most efficient way is to use a 'Jigoku Meguri' combined ticket and plan a route. Many visitors use local buses or rent a car to hop between the different 'Hells'.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors who choose to drive to Chinoike Jigoku.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The admission fee for Chinoike Jigoku is currently 500 JPY per person.
You can also purchase a combined ticket for all seven 'Hells' which offers better value if you plan to visit more than one.Some booking platforms like Klook may suggest printing tickets, but official websites often state that smartphone QR codes are acceptable. It's best to check the specific booking details or the official 'Jigoku Meguri' website for the most current information.
Chinoike Jigoku is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. It's always a good idea to verify the hours closer to your visit, especially during holidays.
Yes, a 'Jigoku Meguri' pass is available, which grants entry to all seven 'Hells' in Beppu for a discounted price compared to buying individual tickets.
Yes, you can purchase individual tickets for Chinoike Jigoku at the entrance gate. Combined passes are also usually available for purchase at the first 'Hell' you visit or at designated ticket booths.
📸 📸 Photography
The main attraction is the unique, deep red color of the 'Bloody Pond' itself. Capture its intensity in natural light. The surrounding steam and the traditional Japanese garden elements also make for picturesque shots.
Generally, photography is allowed within the grounds of Chinoike Jigoku. However, always be respectful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially in areas where people might be relaxing in the foot baths.
Mid-morning to early afternoon often provides the best natural light to showcase the vibrant red color of the pond. Overcast days can also create a dramatic effect.
Yes, you can take photos of the foot bath areas. However, be mindful of people using them and avoid taking close-up shots of individuals without their consent.
Drones are generally not permitted in tourist attractions like Chinoike Jigoku to ensure the safety and privacy of visitors. It's best to check with the management if you have specific drone photography needs.
🎫 ♨️ Onsite Experience
Besides marveling at the 'Bloody Pond,' you can enjoy the foot baths, explore the small gift shop for unique souvenirs, and take a stroll through the surrounding garden areas.
Some visitors have noted that the foot baths are only lukewarm, rather than very hot. Manage your expectations for the temperature of the foot baths.
A visit to Chinoike Jigoku typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on how long you spend at the foot baths and in the gift shop. If you're doing the full 'Hell Tour,' factor in travel time between each location.
Yes, children can visit Chinoike Jigoku. The unique red pond is visually interesting, and the foot baths can be a fun experience for them, though supervision is advised.
While Chinoike Jigoku itself doesn't have a full restaurant, there is a gift shop that may sell small snacks or drinks. You'll find more extensive dining options in the main Beppu city area or near other 'Hells'.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to visit during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to allow children to explore without feeling overwhelmed. The gift shop also offers a chance for kids to pick out a small souvenir. Remember to keep a close eye on children, especially near the hot spring areas, and ensure they don't touch the scalding water.
🚗 Road Trippers & Car Renters
Driving allows you to combine your visit to Chinoike Jigoku with other attractions in the Oita Prefecture, such as the scenic Yufuin or the city of Beppu itself. Be aware that some roads leading to and within the 'Hell Tour' areas can be narrow or winding, so drive cautiously.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While the main pond is the star, don't overlook the details: the textures of the rocks, the steam patterns, and the offerings in the gift shop can all make for interesting shots. Be mindful of reflections in the water and try to find compositions that convey the unique, almost otherworldly atmosphere of this geothermal wonder.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Hell Tour' of Beppu
While Chinoike Jigoku is known for its deep red, iron-rich waters, other 'Hells' offer different spectacles. Umi Jigoku ('Sea Hell') boasts a stunning turquoise blue, while Oynama Jigoku ('Mountain Hell') features crocodiles basking in the heat. The 'Hell Tour' is a popular activity for tourists exploring Beppu, often completed using a combined ticket for efficiency.
Planning your 'Hell Tour' is key to maximizing your experience. Consider purchasing a 'Jigoku Meguri' pass, which covers entry to all seven sites and offers a cost saving. Public transportation, particularly local buses, is a common way to navigate between the 'Hells,' though renting a car provides more flexibility, especially for the slightly more distant Chinoike Jigoku.
The Science Behind the Crimson Waters
Beppu itself is situated on one of the world's largest geothermal fields, with an abundance of hot springs. The city's location above this active geothermal zone allows for the diverse and dramatic displays seen at the 'Hells.' The temperature of the water in Chinoike Jigoku is extremely high, making it unsuitable for bathing, but the nearby foot baths offer a chance to experience the mineral-rich waters at a more comfortable temperature.
While the visual spectacle is the primary draw, the mineral content of these hot springs has historically been associated with therapeutic properties. Beppu has a long history as a renowned onsen (hot spring) resort town, attracting visitors seeking relaxation and potential health benefits from its geothermal waters.
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