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 Umi Jigoku, Oniishibôzu Jigoku, Oniyama Jigoku, Shiraike Jigoku, Chinoike 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.
Kamado Jigoku (かまど地獄): Taste the Water of Hell
Kamado Jigoku is a place where visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences. If you can only visit one "hell," make it this one.
Taste the Water of Hell
One of Kamado Jigoku’s unique features is the chance to taste the water. Visitors can drink a small amount of this sulfur-rich water to experience its distinctive flavor.
Enjoy Food Cooked in Hell’s Water
In addition to drinking the water, Kamado Jigoku offers dishes cooked directly in the boiling spring water. Eggs, corn, and even sweet potatoes are naturally steamed, giving the food a unique flavor, subtly infused with the sulfur from the spring.
Relax in a Free Footbath
For those looking to unwind, Kamado Jigoku provides a free footbath, where the thermal water is cooled to a comfortable temperature. Towels are also provided at no charge, allowing visitors to enjoy this relaxing experience without any hassle.
Explore Various Types of Springs
Kamado Jigoku combines several types of springs in one location, making it an excellent choice for those who want to experience a variety of geothermal phenomena in a single visit. From boiling water pools to steam geysers and mud ponds, this site offers a comprehensive glimpse into the diversity of Beppu’s hells.
How to Get to Shiraike Jigoku and the Other Hells
To explore the hells of Beppu, the easiest starting point is JR Beppu Station, accessible via the Nippou train line. Once in Beppu, you have two main options to reach the hot springs of Kannawa, where most of the hells are located:
- On Foot: You can walk about 4 kilometers northwest from JR Beppu Station. This journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes and includes a moderate uphill climb, making it an interesting option for hikers.
- By Bus: If you prefer a more comfortable mode of transportation, take a bus from the west exit of JR Beppu Station. Kamenoi buses No. 2, 5, 24, or 41 will take you to Kannawa for about 500 yen (~$3.70). The ride lasts around 25 to 30 minutes, and you can get off at either "Umi Jigoku Mae" or "Kannawa". An English bus map is available on the transportation company's website.
