Beppu

Introducing Beppu

Beppu is a city located in central Oita Prefecture, Japan, and is the prefecture's second largest city. It borders the cities of Oita, Usa, Yufu, and Hinode. It is separated from Oita City, the seat of Oita Prefecture, by a single mountain, and is a mere 15-minute train ride away.

Beppu is renowned for its hot springs, boasting over 200 public hot springs, one of the world's most diverse and diverse springs. Approximately 2,700 hot spring sources are scattered across the city's approximately 50 square kilometers, with the most famous being the Blood Pond Hell and Beppu Hatto.

The most popular application of natural geothermal energy in "food" is the Beppu-specific cooking method that uses the jets of hot springs to steam various delicacies from land and sea.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Beppu Hell Hot Springs

Beppu's nine most famous hot spring hells are: Umi Jigoku, Onishi-bouzu Hell, Mountain Hell, Stove Hell, Oniyama Hell, Shiraike Hell, Blood Pond Hell (also known as Blood Pond Hell), Tornado Hell, and Kinryu Hell. Umi Jigoku is the largest of the eight, reaching temperatures as high as 98°C. Beppu residents often use the high temperatures of Umi Jigoku to boil eggs, cooking a basket of fresh eggs in just six minutes. Visitors won't want to miss these "hot spring eggs" with their faint sulfurous aroma.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

---

Most Popular FAQs for Beppu

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Beppu, in Oita Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring resorts, known for its abundant geothermal activity. The city has developed around its natural hot springs, which have been used for bathing and therapeutic purposes for centuries. Beppu is also culturally significant for its Jigoku (Hell) hot springs, which showcase unique geothermal formations.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in Oita Prefecture on Kyushu Island, Japan.
• By train: Beppu Station connects via JR Nippo Main Line; from Fukuoka, the limited express Sonic takes about 2.5 hours.
• By bus: City buses connect major onsen districts and tourist sites.
• By taxi: Convenient for visiting multiple onsen and Jigoku spots.
• Walking: Many onsen areas like Kannawa and Myoban are easily walkable.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Onsen and public baths: typically 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Beppu Hells (Jigoku): 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Best times: Spring (March–May) for flowers, Autumn (September–November) for mild weather and colorful leaves.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Beppu Hells: ¥400–¥1,000 per site, tickets can be purchased on-site; combination passes available online and at tourist centers.
• Onsen baths: ¥500–¥1,000 for public baths, payment is usually on-site.
• Ropeway: ¥1,200 round-trip, tickets purchased at the station.
• Beppu Bamboo Crafts Center: ¥300, tickets purchased on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is generally not required except for private onsen experiences or special tours, recommended 1–2 weeks ahead for peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 days to explore main onsen districts, Jigoku Hells, Mount Tsurumi, and cultural sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Beppu Hells (Jigoku)
• Kannawa Onsen District
• Myoban Onsen for mud baths and unique hot spring scenery
• Mount Tsurumi Ropeway
• Takegawara Onsen and sand baths

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Japanese; some English audio guides or pamphlets are provided at major attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Top of Mount Tsurumi for city and bay views
• Beppu Hells with unique steaming pools
• Kannawa streets and traditional onsen architecture
• Sand bath areas with seaside views

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the Beppu Hells in the morning, visit Kannawa and Myoban onsen areas, take the ropeway up Mount Tsurumi for sunset, then enjoy a sand bath or public onsen in the evening.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Evening onsen experiences are available at many baths.
• Some Jigoku sites have seasonal light-ups.
• Special festival events in spring and summer featuring hot spring and local culture.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Beppu is busiest on weekends, holidays, and during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn); weekdays are less crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public toilets at major attractions and onsen districts
• Restaurants and cafes throughout the city and near onsen
• Souvenir shops in Jigoku and Kannawa areas
• Rest areas near ropeway and scenic spots

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many onsen and Jigoku sites are accessible, though some streets in Kannawa are hilly. Ropeway has elevators and accessible facilities. Onsen bathing may require mobility.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is preferred at small onsen and local vendors; major attractions, hotels, and some restaurants accept cards or mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Seafood restaurants near Beppu Port
• Cafes in Kannawa and Myoban districts
• Local restaurants serving onsen-steamed dishes (Jigoku Mushi)
• Ramen and traditional Japanese eateries near Beppu Station

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options available in some restaurants; vegan and halal options are limited but can be found in select international or hotel restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Onsen ryokans in Kannawa and Myoban districts
• Hotels near Beppu Station
• Guesthouses and budget inns throughout the city

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Yufuin hot spring town (approx. 1 hour by train)
• Oita city for shopping and cultural experiences
• Mount Tsurumi hiking trails

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Beppu steamed buns and Jigoku Mushi treats
• Onsen salts and bath products
• Local crafts and souvenirs from bamboo and ceramics

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• JR trains to Yufuin, Oita, Fukuoka, or Kumamoto
• Highway buses to nearby cities and scenic spots
• Taxis for local transfers