Discover the 7 hells of Beppu
Located in the northeast of Kyūshū Island, Beppu (別府) is one of Japan’s most famous cities for hot springs (onsen). With nearly 3,000 baths spread throughout the city, Beppu is a true haven for relaxation and thermal bathing enthusiasts.
But what truly sets Beppu apart is its spectacular Seven Hells Tour (Jigoku Meguri, 地獄めぐり). Unlike regular onsens where you can soak, these hot springs are far too hot and constantly bubbling, showcasing the sheer power of geothermal activity.
Here are the 7 Hells of Beppu:
- Umi Jigoku (海地獄) – The "Sea Hell", featuring a stunning cobalt-blue pool.
- Chinoike Jigoku (血の池地獄) – The "Blood Pond Hell", known for its striking red color.
- Kamado Jigoku (かまど地獄) – The "Cooking Pot Hell", famous for its sulfurous steam.
- Oniishibōzu Jigoku (鬼石坊主地獄) – The "Monk’s Head Hell", with bubbling gray mud pools.
- Oniyama Jigoku (鬼山地獄) – The "Demon Mountain Hell", home to a colony of crocodiles.
- Tatsumaki Jigoku (龍巻地獄) – The "Geyser Hell", with regular eruptions.
And finally, one of the most impressive of them all:
Shiraike Jigoku: the white pond hell
Shiraike Jigoku, which means "White Pond Hell", is a hot spring pool with milky-white water, a unique feature caused by its high sodium chloride concentration. Initially, the water emerges completely transparent, but upon contact with air, a chemical reaction turns it into a bluish-white, almost supernatural hue.
At its source, Shiraike Jigoku reaches temperatures of about 95°C (203°F).
Unlike some of the more dramatic hells, Shiraike Jigoku offers a more peaceful atmosphere, set within a lush Japanese garden, making it a relaxing and scenic stop on the tour.
What to see and do at Shiraike Jigoku ?
Admire the surreal milky-white water
The main attraction at Shiraike Jigoku is its ethereal-looking hot spring pool, where the calm water and gently rising steam create a dreamlike atmosphere. The contrast between the stillness of the pond and the lingering vapors makes for a truly mesmerizing experience.
Observe giant amazonian fish
One of the most surprising aspects of Shiraike Jigoku is its small aquarium, which houses giant fish from the Amazon, including the pirarucu (Arapaima gigas)—one of the largest freshwater fish in the world.
- These massive fish can grow up to 3 meters (9.8 feet) long and weigh over 200 kg (440 lbs).
- Their natural habitat is the Amazon, but they thrive here thanks to the warm temperatures of the hot spring water.
Note for animal lovers: The aquariums are quite small, which may raise concerns about the well-being of the fish.
Explore the surrounding Japanese gardens
The peaceful garden surrounding Shiraike Jigoku adds to its tranquil ambiance. Lush greenery, traditional landscaping, and seasonal flowers make this spot a great place to unwind before continuing the Seven Hells Tour.
How to get to Shiraike Jigoku and the other hells?
The best starting point for exploring Beppu’s Hells is JR Beppu Station (別府駅), accessible via the Nippō Main Line. Once in Beppu, you have several options to reach Kannawa (鉄輪温泉), the hot spring district where most of the hells are located.
Walking Route
- Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles) from JR Beppu Station
- Duration: About 1 hour 40 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate, with a gradual uphill climb
- Best for: Hiking enthusiasts who want to explore Beppu on foot
By Bus (Recommended)
- For a quicker and more comfortable trip, local buses take you directly to "Kannawa", the central hub for visiting the hells, including Oniyama Jigoku.
- Bus Lines: Kamenoi Bus #2, #5, #24, or #41 (see bus map)
- Fare: Around 500 yen (~3.70 €)
- Duration: 25 to 30 minutes
- Stop: "Kannawa", the main point for exploring the hells
