The 7 Hells Tour of Beppu
Beppu (別府 / "Separate Administration"), located in the northeast of Kyûshû Island, is a must-visit destination for hot spring enthusiasts.
With around 3,000 onsens scattered across the city, Beppu is one of Japan's top hot spring capitals. But what truly sets it apart is its famous "7 Hells" tour, or Jigoku Meguri (地獄めぐり), a fascinating journey through seven unique hot springs.
What Are the "7 Hells" of Beppu?
The term "7 Hells" refers to Beppu's seven hot springs, known for their intense geothermal activity. Each spring, or "hell," offers a unique natural spectacle—from colorful waters to mystical steam emissions, these sites are both impressive and mysterious.
You can find more detailed descriptions of these springs, including Kamado Jigoku, Oniishibôzu Jigoku, Oniyama Jigoku, Shiraike Jigoku, Umi Jigoku and Tatsumaki Jigoku, in the official English brochure and on our website.
However, it's important to note that the tour is heavily geared toward tourism, with a significant presence of souvenir shops.
Chinoike Jigoku (血の池地獄), The Blood Pond Hell
Chinoike Jigoku, or the Blood Pond Hell, is the oldest of Beppu's "hells," dating back around 1,300 years. The pond's striking blood-red color is due to its mud, which is heated to 78°C and rich in iron oxide. This rare phenomenon led to the site being recognized as one of Japan's most beautiful landscapes in 2009.
For centuries, the red clay from Chinoike Jigoku has been used to dye fabrics and create skin ointments. You can even purchase the clay, which is said to offer various health benefits (according to their website): it helps with eczema, burns, athlete’s foot, acne, hemorrhoids, and itching. A 22-gram package is priced at 1,500 yen.
The site also features a free footbath (don’t forget to bring your own towel) and a restaurant serving classic dishes like burgers, curry, and tempura.
How to Get to Shiraike Jigoku and the Other Hells
To explore the underworld of Beppu, the easiest starting point is JR Beppu Train Station, accessible via the Nippou Train Line.
Once in Beppu, you will have to take the pink line bus "Spatto / すぱっと" from the Kamenoi company to get to this hell. Take bus 16 and get off at the “Chinoike Jigoku Mae” stop. A bus map in English is available on the transport company's website.
It is relatively difficult to access it safely on foot (there is a tunnel without a sidewalk to take, or you have to take a long detour on foot).
