Oniyama Jigoku Beppu
Witness the raw power of geothermal wonders at Beppu's 'Hells,' featuring vibrant hot springs and a unique crocodile enclosure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Oniyama Jigoku Beppu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the raw power of geothermal wonders at Beppu's 'Hells,' featuring vibrant hot springs and a unique crocodile enclosure.
"A visually stunning display of geothermal activity, but with significant ethical concerns at the crocodile attraction."
🎟️ Multi-Pass Value
Consider the 'Jigoku Meguri' multi-pass for access to multiple hells. It's a great way to save money!
🚶♀️ Efficient Route Planning
Group your visits to the 'Hells' as they are spread out. Some recommend a specific order for efficiency.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oniyama Jigoku (Crocodile Hell)
Beppu, Oita Prefecture
Witness a unique display of crocodiles basking near steaming hot springs, a stark contrast of nature's power.
Steaming Hot Springs
Various 'Hells' in Beppu
Marvel at the vibrant colors and intense heat of Beppu's famous 'Jigoku' (Hells), each with its own distinct character.
Hell Steaming (Jigokumushi)
Kannawa area
Experience traditional cooking using natural hot spring steam for a unique culinary adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the 'Hell' Experience
Animal Welfare Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Multi-Pass Value
Consider the 'Jigoku Meguri' multi-pass for access to multiple hells. It's a great way to save money!
🚶♀️ Efficient Route Planning
Group your visits to the 'Hells' as they are spread out. Some recommend a specific order for efficiency.
🍳 Try Jigokumushi
Don't miss trying food cooked with natural steam in Kannawa! It's a unique Beppu experience.
🥚 The Famous Eggs
You can often buy and eat eggs boiled in the hot springs – a classic Beppu treat!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Multi-Pass Value
Consider the 'Jigoku Meguri' multi-pass for access to multiple hells. It's a great way to save money!
🚶♀️ Efficient Route Planning
Group your visits to the 'Hells' as they are spread out. Some recommend a specific order for efficiency.
🍳 Try Jigokumushi
Don't miss trying food cooked with natural steam in Kannawa! It's a unique Beppu experience.
🥚 The Famous Eggs
You can often buy and eat eggs boiled in the hot springs – a classic Beppu treat!
⚠️ Animal Welfare
Be aware of recent reviews concerning crocodile welfare at Oniyama Jigoku.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The 'Hells of Beppu' offer a visually stunning display of geothermal activity, with unique hot springs like Oniyama Jigoku featuring crocodiles. While the natural beauty is widely praised, significant concerns have been raised regarding the welfare of the crocodiles, leading some visitors to question the ethical implications of visiting this specific attraction.
"ANIMAL CRUELTY
Please do not support this jigoku by visiting. It needs to be SHUT DOWN! Crocodile hell indeed!
I am an Aussie vet with a passion for reptiles and a lot of experience in keeping them, which may add some weight to the following.
I was absolutely disgusted by the conditions these crocs are kept in. The enclosures were filthy, grossly overcrowded and most had insufficient water (to submerge themselves) and were without shade. There was absolutely nothing in the way of enrichment or an attempt to make the cages look ‘natural’. They had nowhere to hide or escape the crowds. There is one smaller croc indoors which is kept in a TANK so small, the poor creature could barely turn around. It was just sitting there, breathing heavily (clearly stressed) while people pressed their faces in and tapped on the glass! Appalling!
The crocodiles themselves are in horrendous condition. Most had open wounds (some with flies hanging around), presumably from fighting each other as a result of overcrowding. Many were missing digits and at least one was missing a forelimb. The digits that were present were worn right down as a result of walking on concrete instead of a natural substrate. Most also had deformed scales and teeth growing at odd angles - likely a result of old injuries and/or dietary insufficiencies.
I visited as part of the 7 Hells multi-pass and regrettably did not research it prior. Had I known the sort of hell those crocodiles are living, I would not have visited. If you happen to read this review, please don’t visit, help spread the word and let’s get this place shut down! Maybe those incredible creatures have a shot at freedom still 🙏🏼🐊"
Steph
"This crocodile park is aptly named to be one of the 7 hells - HELL FOR THE CROCODILES, that is.
TLDR; Please don't support this place with your visit! The animal abuse is so blatant it is ridiculous. This place needs to be closed down!!
It was so upsetting seeing such powerful and fearsome creatures reduced to motionless statues, cramped into such a tiny space that they ended up fighting.
I saw so many with wounds and missing limbs/toes, including one with a cheek gouged out, and the piece still dangling by the last bit of skin attached.
When I went indoors, what I saw was so heartbreaking I couldn't even take a photo for proof. A 9 year old Caiman crocodile, ALIVE, is stuffed into a tank where it cannot even turn around in. All it can do is stand in that spot and look at you 💔
These crocodiles are likely brought in as an attraction to an otherwise plain place of just colorless boiling water.
I didn't research the places at all and bought the all-access pass without realizing there was a crocodile park. I deeply regret it because I would have never have supported it otherwise after reading the reviews."
RJ
"The crocodiles are living cramped together and many of them are either without a limp or have open wounds.
There is also one that is kept in a tank that is so small that it seems like the crocodile cannot even move.
Feels like hell for the crocodiles..."
E K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oniyama Jigoku is one of the 'Hells of Beppu' and is accessible by bus from Beppu Station. Many visitors purchase a multi-day pass for the local buses to explore the different 'hells' efficiently.
Yes, the 'Jigoku Meguri' (Hell Tour) is designed for easy travel between the main hot spring attractions. Buses are frequent, and some are within walking distance of each other.
Many recommend purchasing a 'Jigoku Meguri' ticket which covers entry to all seven main 'hells'. This is often more cost-effective than buying individual tickets.
While Beppu Station is the main hub, Oniyama Jigoku and the other 'hells' are spread out. It's recommended to take a bus or taxi to reach them, especially if you plan to visit multiple sites.
Parking is available in the vicinity of the Beppu 'Hells', though it can be limited during peak seasons. Using public transport is often more convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Oniyama Jigoku is part of the 'Jigoku Meguri' (Hell Tour). A combined ticket for all seven 'hells' costs around 2,200 JPY. Individual entry fees may vary.
The 'Hells of Beppu' generally open around 8:00 AM and close at 5:00 PM. It's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
Tickets for the 'Jigoku Meguri' can typically be purchased at the entrance of any of the 'hells' or at local tourist information centers. Online booking options might be available through third-party sites.
Yes, the 'Jigoku Meguri' multi-pass offers a significant discount compared to visiting each 'hell' individually. This is the most popular and cost-effective option.
There are generally no age restrictions for entering the 'Hells of Beppu'. However, some areas might have safety warnings due to the extreme heat of the springs.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Oniyama Jigoku is known for its population of crocodiles that bask near the steaming hot springs. It's a unique sight, contrasting the powerful reptiles with the geothermal activity.
Absolutely not. The hot springs are extremely hot and dangerous. Visitors are strictly advised not to touch the water or get too close to the edges for safety reasons.
Oniyama Jigoku is one of the 'Seven Hells of Beppu'. Nearby 'hells' include Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) and Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell), offering diverse geothermal phenomena.
While visually interesting, the primary concern at Oniyama Jigoku is the welfare of the crocodiles, which has been raised in recent reviews. Parents should consider this when deciding if it's suitable for their children.
Jigokumushi, or 'hell steaming', is a traditional cooking method in Beppu where food is cooked using the natural steam from hot springs. You can experience this at places like Jigokumushikobo Kannawa.
🍽️ 🍳 Food & Dining
Oniyama Jigoku itself does not have dining facilities. However, the surrounding areas, particularly Kannawa, offer restaurants and the unique 'Jigokumushi' experience.
Beppu is famous for 'Jigokumushi', where food is steamed using the natural geothermal heat. This method imparts a unique flavor and texture to dishes like vegetables and seafood.
You can often purchase and eat eggs that have been boiled in the hot springs at various 'hell' sites, including near Oniyama Jigoku. They are a popular local snack.
While traditional Japanese cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants in Beppu offer vegetable-based dishes. The Jigokumushi experience also allows for steaming vegetables.
Food prices in Beppu can vary. Casual eateries and street food like the hot spring eggs are affordable, while restaurants might range from moderate to expensive depending on the cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The most striking photos capture the crocodiles against the backdrop of the steaming, colorful hot springs. Look for vantage points that showcase both elements.
Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Beppu 'Hells'. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography directly at the animals.
Morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and potentially fewer crowds. The steam rising from the springs can create atmospheric shots, especially in cooler weather.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most tourist areas in Japan, including Beppu, to ensure safety and respect for other visitors. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A standard zoom lens is versatile. If you want to get closer shots of the crocodiles, a telephoto lens can be useful. A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the hot springs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be aware of the significant concerns raised about animal welfare at Oniyama Jigoku. It's advisable to research current conditions and discuss them with children if you choose to visit. Ensure children are supervised at all times due to the extreme heat of the springs and the presence of crocodiles.
💰 Budget Travelers
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Seven Hells' of Beppu: A Geothermal Spectacle
Key 'hells' include Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) with its striking blue water, Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) known for its crimson hue, and Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell) which features geyser-like eruptions. Oniyama Jigoku, the focus of much recent discussion, is notable for its crocodile population. The sheer variety and intensity of the geothermal activity make the 'Hells of Beppu' a truly unique and memorable experience for travelers seeking natural wonders.
While the visual appeal of the 'hells' is undeniable, it's important for visitors to be aware of the ethical considerations surrounding some of the attractions, particularly the animal enclosures. Recent reviews have raised serious concerns about the welfare of the crocodiles at Oniyama Jigoku, prompting some travelers to reconsider their visit. It is advisable to research current conditions and make informed decisions based on personal values.
Oniyama Jigoku: Crocodiles and Controversy
However, recent visitor reviews have brought significant attention to the welfare of the crocodiles at Oniyama Jigoku. Many accounts describe the enclosures as overcrowded, unsanitary, and lacking adequate water or shade. There are also reports of crocodiles exhibiting signs of stress, injury, and missing limbs, leading to accusations of animal cruelty.
For travelers planning a visit, it is crucial to be aware of these ethical concerns. While the 'Hells of Beppu' offer a unique geothermal experience, the conditions at Oniyama Jigoku have become a point of contention. Visitors are encouraged to research the latest information and consider their personal stance on animal welfare when deciding whether to include this specific 'hell' in their itinerary.
The Art of Jigokumushi: Cooking with Steam
Visitors can experience Jigokumushi firsthand at dedicated facilities like Jigokumushikobo Kannawa. Here, you can select your ingredients and watch them being cooked using the natural steam. It's not just a meal; it's an interactive culinary adventure that connects you directly to Beppu's geothermal heritage. The resulting dishes are often described as incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to the power of natural cooking methods.
This practice highlights how the local community has ingeniously harnessed the powerful geothermal resources of Beppu for practical and delicious purposes. It's a must-try for any foodie visiting the area, offering a taste of authentic Beppu culture that goes beyond the visual spectacle of the hot springs themselves.
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