Unzen Jigoku: Steaming Landscapes and Sulfuric Legends in the Mountains of Kyushu

We visited Unzen Jigoku on a cool misty morning, and it honestly felt like stepping into another world. The thick white steam rising from the ground, the smell of sulfur hanging in the air, and the bubbling, hissing earth beneath our feet—it was eerie, fascinating, and beautiful all at once.

Unzen Jigoku is a collection of steaming geothermal vents spread out over a walkable area just a few minutes from the main onsen town. Wooden boardwalks wind through the sulphuric fields, making it easy to explore. Along the way, we passed various “hells” with dramatic names like “Oito Jigoku” and “Seishichi Jigoku,” each spewing steam more furiously than the last. It was fun reading the legends and stories tied to each one. There’s also a rich history here—this place was once a site where early Christians were persecuted during the Edo period, and some signs and monuments along the way reflect that dark chapter.

What stood out most was how raw and natural everything felt. You can get really close to the vents—close enough to feel the warmth and hear the steam roar out of the earth. It’s a completely different vibe from the more polished tourist spots. And despite the name, “hell” felt oddly peaceful. Maybe because of the mountain setting and fresh air. There were even eggs being steamed in the natural heat, which made for a fun and tasty little snack break.

We took our time walking the loop, soaking in the atmosphere (and some sulfur), and snapping lots of photos. If you’re visiting Unzen Onsen or anywhere nearby, this is definitely a must-see. It’s dramatic, educational, and totally unique to Kyushu.

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Post by Crumpled Nomad | Jun 20, 2025