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Ichinoide Kaikan

4.1
·214 reviews·Beppu, Japan

A secluded hilltop onsen in Beppu, offering unique milky blue waters, breathtaking views, and authentic home-cooked meals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more private

CrowdLow
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Ichinoide Kaikan - Image 1

Ichinoide Kaikan

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more private

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A secluded hilltop onsen in Beppu, offering unique milky blue waters, breathtaking views, and authentic home-cooked meals.

4.1
(214 reviews)

"This obscure onsen with it's milky, azure blue water is one of the best in Beppu."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace the Rustic Charm

Expect a basic, authentic onsen experience; it's a hidden gem, not a luxury resort.

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the sea and mountains.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Milky Azure Onsen Pools

Milky Azure Onsen Pools

Main bathing area

Soak in unique, mineral-rich milky blue waters with a gentle temperature, perfect for extended relaxation.

Reddit
Panoramic Sea & Mountain Views

Panoramic Sea & Mountain Views

Hilltop location

Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the ocean and Mount Tsurumi, especially magical during sunset.

Reddit
Authentic Home-Cooked Meal

Authentic Home-Cooked Meal

Dining area

Savor delicious, locally prepared meals, often served after your onsen experience.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Ichinoide Kaikan offers a unique, less-touristy onsen experience with stunning views. While some facilities might be undergoing renovation, the core experience of soaking in mineral-rich waters remains. Be prepared for a more rustic setting and limited English, making basic onsen etiquette essential. Reddit

Timing is Key for Views & Meals

To fully enjoy Ichinoide Kaikan, aim for late afternoon to catch the sunset over the sea and Mount Tsurumi. This timing also aligns with their delicious home-cooked meals, often served after bathing. Arriving on a weekday can mean a more private experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more private
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Sunset views & meal
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Destination of the Week: Oita, Japan 🇯🇵 1. Begin your journey in Beppu, the hot spring capital of Japan, easily reached from Oita Airport. Local buses and taxis make it simple to explore every onsen district. 2. Witness the otherworldly Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) - from the cobalt-blue Umi Jigoku to the crimson Chinoike Jigoku and the bubbling mud pools of Oniishibozu Jigoku. These geothermal wond...
@skyscanner
84.1K likes • 3.2M views

🎯 Embrace the Rustic Charm

Expect a basic, authentic onsen experience; it's a hidden gem, not a luxury resort. Reddit

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the sea and mountains. Reddit

大分県『別府市』を最高に満喫できた1日プラン! . ❶べっぷ地獄めぐり ❷鬼石の湯 ❸地獄温泉ミュージアム ❹地獄蒸し工房 鉄輪 . A one-day plan that allowed me to enjoy "Beppu City" in Oita Prefecture at its best! . ①Hells of Beppu(Beppu Jigoku) ② Onishi no Yu ③Jigoku Onsen Museum ④Jigoku Mushi Koubou Kannawa . #PR #TikTok #西のゴールデンルート #GOLDENROUTETOWESTJAPAN #BeepuCity
@neo.travelers
8.3K likes • 128.4K views
この秘境は、、、、 【沼津市戸田 諸口神社】 今日は私がここ最近で1番感動した景色をお届けします‼️ 静岡県沼津市戸田にある諸口神社⛩️ 海のすぐ近くに鳥居がありとても神秘的な場所でした。 波の音を聞きながら海と富士山と真っ赤な鳥居を一度に眺められるというかなり贅沢なビュー👀 何かパワーを感じたそんな場所でした。 📍〒410-3402 静岡県沼津市戸田2710 🚙駐車場 有 #諸口神社#沼津#沼津観光#沼津旅行#伊豆旅行#伊豆
@gourmetsalesperson
7.2K likes • 288.4K views

🍽️ Savor the Home Cooking

Try the delicious home-cooked meals, often served after your onsen soak. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring your own water bottle, especially if you plan to soak for a while. Reddit

#japan #travel #oita #yufuin #beppu
@thshieen
4.4K likes • 112.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace the Rustic Charm

Expect a basic, authentic onsen experience; it's a hidden gem, not a luxury resort. Reddit

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the sea and mountains. Reddit

🍽️ Savor the Home Cooking

Try the delicious home-cooked meals, often served after your onsen soak. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring your own water bottle, especially if you plan to soak for a while. Reddit

🗣️ Basic Japanese Helpful

Limited English spoken, so knowing a few basic phrases is beneficial. Reddit

🚗 Steep Access Road

The road is narrow and steep; drive carefully or consider alternative transport. Reddit

🎴 Tattoos Welcome

Good news for ink lovers: tattoos are permitted here! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(214 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ichinoide Kaikan is lauded as a hidden gem offering a unique onsen experience with its milky blue waters and stunning hilltop views. Visitors appreciate the authentic, rustic atmosphere and the potential for a delicious home-cooked meal. While renovations may affect some facilities and English is limited, the overall experience is highly recommended for its tranquility and scenic beauty. Reddit

"Wow, such a hidden gem in Beppu. This place is still open, but it’s also partially closed as they are renovating and due to the low tourism because of COVID.

The lady who worked there allowed me to use the onsen facility (700 yen) but their kitchen was closed. They usually do lunch/onsen set for around 1300-1500yen, I imagine the food most be yummy!

There are multiple bath with water coming directly from the source so the mineral level is high. The changing room is very basic and the Onsen is built with concrete. It’s feels like an abandoned onsen but it was definitely a unique experience.

The view is amazing from here!"

Bluemount

"A secret open-air onsen not too far from Beppu Park. The entrance fee is 700 yen. But since there are not many people visiting this onsen, you can enjoy this public onsen like a private one. This onsen is located on the hilltop and hidden at the edge of a forest. The road to this place is really steep, and only enough for one car. There are three pools in both men and women onsen, one of which is filled with milky, azure blue water. The temperature is not too hot (maybe around 40 degree Celcius) so you can enjoy this onsen all day long. But make sure to bring your own water bottle to stay hydrated."

Wahyu Lie

"Amazing outdoor onsen with a stunning view and a great meal right afterwards. The owner is the nicest man and even gave us a ride to Beppu station after we finished. Best Onsen-experience in Beppu thus far, can really recommend!"

l0wkey

What People Like

Unique milky blue waters
Stunning sea and mountain views
Authentic, rustic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Steep and narrow access road
Limited English spoken
Basic facilities due to renovations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Beppu Station, you can take a bus towards Kannawa or Beppu Park. The final stretch involves a steep, narrow road, so driving requires caution. Some reviewers mention the owner kindly offering rides to Beppu Station. TikTokReddit

While buses go to the general Beppu area, the final approach to Ichinoide Kaikan is on a steep, single-car-width road, making it less straightforward for public transport users. Taxis might be an option, but confirm the route. Reddit

If driving, be prepared for a very steep and narrow access road. Navigate carefully, as it's only wide enough for one vehicle. Reddit

Ichinoide Kaikan is located near Beppu Park and offers views of Mount Tsurumi. It's a bit removed from the main Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) sites, offering a more tranquil experience. TikTok+1

No, Ichinoide Kaikan is a separate onsen facility and not part of the main Jigoku Meguri attractions, though it's in the broader Beppu area. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is typically around 700 yen for the onsen. This often includes a small towel. Reddit

While specific hours can vary, it's often recommended to visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset and potential meal service. Some sources indicate it's open daily. TikTokReddit

Advance booking is generally not required for the onsen. However, if you wish to have the home-cooked meal, it's advisable to inquire about availability. Reddit

The primary option is the onsen entry fee. Previously, a lunch and onsen set was available for around 1300-1500 yen, but the kitchen may be closed due to renovations. Reddit

Yes, tattoos are permitted at Ichinoide Kaikan, which is a significant plus for many visitors. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The onsen features unique, milky azure blue water with a high mineral content. The temperature is generally around 40 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable for longer soaks. Reddit

It's described as a hidden gem with a rustic, authentic feel. Some parts may be undergoing renovation, contributing to a slightly 'abandoned' but unique ambiance. The views are a major highlight. Reddit

Yes, there are separate bathing areas for men and women, each typically featuring multiple pools. Reddit

Basic amenities like changing rooms are available. A small towel is often provided with the entrance fee. It's recommended to bring your own water bottle. Reddit

Absolutely. The gentle water temperature, stunning views, and fewer crowds contribute to a very relaxing and unique onsen experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Historically, Ichinoide Kaikan offered a delicious home-cooked meal as part of a set with the onsen. However, the kitchen may be closed due to renovations, so it's best to inquire beforehand. Reddit

The food is described as authentic, home-cooked Japanese cuisine. Reviewers have praised its quality and taste, especially when enjoyed after a soak. Reddit

It's unlikely that you can dine without using the onsen facilities, as the meal is typically offered as part of a package. Reddit

The combined lunch and onsen set used to cost around 1300-1500 yen. Individual meal pricing is not typically available. Reddit

As the meals are home-cooked and traditional, specific vegetarian or vegan options may not be readily available. It's best to inquire directly about dietary needs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in the common areas and for the views. However, always be respectful of other bathers' privacy in the onsen areas. Reddit

The panoramic views of the sea and Mount Tsurumi are prime photo opportunities. The unique milky blue water of the onsen also makes for striking shots. Reddit

It's generally considered impolite and a breach of privacy to take photos directly in the onsen pools where others are bathing. Focus on the scenery and the general ambiance. Reddit

Late afternoon is ideal for photography, as you can capture the beautiful sunset over the ocean and mountains. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, common onsen etiquette dictates respecting others' privacy. Avoid intrusive photography, especially in changing rooms or bathing areas. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ichinoide Kaikan offers a unique onsen experience that families might enjoy, particularly for its gentler water temperatures and stunning views. The milky blue water is less intense than some other hot springs, making it potentially more comfortable for children. The scenic location provides a pleasant backdrop for a family outing. Reddit

However, families should be aware that the facilities are rustic and the access road is steep and narrow, which might pose challenges with strollers or very young children. Communication can also be a barrier due to limited English. It's recommended to check if the kitchen is open for meals, as this could be a convenient option for families. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Ichinoide Kaikan is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking an authentic onsen experience. The entrance fee is quite reasonable at around 700 yen, and it often includes a small towel. Reddit

If the home-cooked meal is available, it offers great value as a combined onsen and dining experience, historically priced around 1300-1500 yen. This is significantly cheaper than many tourist-oriented onsen resorts. The rustic nature of the facility also means you're paying for the experience and the view, not for luxury amenities. Reddit

🧘 Solo Travelers

For solo travelers looking for a peaceful and authentic onsen experience, Ichinoide Kaikan is ideal. The lower visitor numbers, especially on weekdays, mean you can often enjoy the pools and the views in relative solitude, akin to a private onsen. Reddit

The opportunity to relax in the mineral-rich waters while taking in the expansive scenery provides a perfect setting for introspection and rejuvenation. The potential for a delicious, home-cooked meal adds to the overall satisfying solo journey. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Onsen Experience

Ichinoide Kaikan is celebrated for its distinctive onsen waters, characterized by a milky, azure blue hue and a high mineral content. Unlike the intensely hot springs found elsewhere in Beppu, the pools here are maintained at a more comfortable temperature, around 40°C, allowing visitors to luxuriate for extended periods. This gentle warmth, combined with the mineral-rich water, is said to have therapeutic benefits, making it a truly restorative experience. Reddit

The setting itself adds to the allure. Perched on a hilltop, the onsen offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding seascape and the majestic Mount Tsurumi. This scenic backdrop transforms the bathing experience into something truly special, especially during the golden hour when the setting sun paints the sky with vibrant colors. While the facilities are described as basic and rustic, this only enhances its charm as a 'hidden gem' away from the more commercialized tourist spots. Reddit

It's important to note that Ichinoide Kaikan is a more traditional and less commercialized onsen. While this means a more authentic experience, it also implies that English may be limited, and visitors should be aware of basic onsen etiquette. The unique water and the stunning views make it a must-visit for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path onsen adventure in Beppu. Reddit

Culinary Delights and Views

A significant draw for visitors to Ichinoide Kaikan is the opportunity to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal, often served in conjunction with the onsen experience. This culinary aspect elevates the visit from a simple bath to a more complete cultural immersion. The meals are described as authentic and flavorful, providing a taste of local Oita cuisine. Reddit

The timing of your visit can greatly enhance both the onsen and dining experience. Arriving in the late afternoon allows you to soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while watching the sunset over the ocean and Mount Tsurumi. Following your relaxing bath, you can then savor the prepared meal, making for a perfect end to the day. This combination of therapeutic bathing and satisfying food, all set against a stunning natural backdrop, is what makes Ichinoide Kaikan so memorable. Reddit

While the kitchen's operational status can sometimes be affected by renovations or seasonal factors, the prospect of enjoying such a meal is a strong incentive to visit. It's advisable to confirm meal availability when planning your trip to ensure you don't miss out on this highly-rated aspect of the Ichinoide Kaikan experience. Reddit

Navigating to Ichinoide Kaikan

Reaching Ichinoide Kaikan presents a unique challenge that adds to its 'hidden gem' status. While it's located in the Beppu area, the final approach is via a steep and narrow road, often described as only wide enough for a single car. This can be daunting for drivers, and caution is strongly advised. Reddit

Public transportation options can get you to the general vicinity of Beppu, but the last leg to the onsen might require a taxi or a significant walk, depending on the bus route. Some visitors have noted that the owner has been kind enough to offer rides to Beppu Station, which could be a helpful option if available. Planning your transport in advance is crucial to avoid any last-minute stress. Reddit

Despite the access challenges, the reward is a secluded onsen experience away from the crowds. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, leading you to a tranquil spot with unparalleled views. Reddit

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