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:
- 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.
- Shiraike Jigoku (白池地獄) – The "White Pond Hell", with its milky-white waters.
- Tatsumaki Jigoku (龍巻地獄) – The "Geyser Hell", with regular eruptions.
And finally, one of the most impressive of them all:
Umi Jigoku : the sea of hell
Among Beppu’s seven hells, Umi Jigoku (海地獄) is one of the most iconic. Its deep turquoise-blue water resembles a tropical lagoon, but don’t be fooled—temperatures exceed 90°C (194°F), making it far too hot for bathing!
Umi Jigoku was formed over 1,200 years ago following an eruption of Mount Tsurumi (鶴見岳), a nearby volcano. The striking blue color of the water comes from a high concentration of iron sulfate, a mineral that gives the pool its vivid azure hue.
The main pool of Umi Jigoku is about 200 meters deep, showcasing the immense geothermal energy beneath Beppu. When steam rises from the surface, the scene takes on a mystical atmosphere, creating a dramatic contrast between the bright blue water and the thick white steam clouds.
What to see and do at Umi Jigoku ?
Umi Jigoku isn’t just about its stunning blue boiling pool—there are plenty of other attractions to explore!
Marvel at giant amazonian water lilies
One of the most unique features of Umi Jigoku is its giant water lily pond, home to Victoria amazonica, a species native to the Amazon. These massive lily pads can grow up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) in diameter and support weights of up to 20 kg (44 lbs)!
Relax in a Free Foot Bath (Ashiyu)
Want to experience the warmth of the hot springs without getting burned? Try the ashiyu (足湯), or foot bath, available for free at Umi Jigoku. It’s a great way to soak your feet in the natural hot spring water while enjoying the steaming landscapes.
Bring your own towel to dry your feet afterward. Otherwise, towels are available for purchase on-site for around 200 yen (~$1.50).
Try volcanic steam-cooked delicacies
Beppu is famous for its volcanic steam cooking, and Umi Jigoku is no exception! A café on-site serves several local specialties, including:
- Onsen tamago (温泉卵) – Hot spring-steamed eggs, believed to have health benefits.
- Volcanic steam pudding – A delicious local dessert that visitors love!
Shop for Unique Souvenirs
Umi Jigoku has the largest souvenir shop among the seven hells. You’ll find a variety of local products, such as:
- Hot spring cosmetics
- Geothermal-baked cookies
- Volcanic salt
How to get to Umi Jigoku and the other hells ?
The best starting point to explore 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 enjoy the scenery
By Bus (Recommended)
For a quicker and more comfortable trip, local buses take you directly to the "Umi Jigoku Mae" stop or "Kannawa" stop, a central point to explore the hells.
- Bus Lines: Kamenoi Bus #2, #5, #24, or #41 (see bus map)
- Fare: Around 500 yen (~$3.70)
- Duration: 25 to 30 minutes
- Stops:
- "Umi Jigoku Mae" – Right in front of Umi Jigoku
- "Kannawa" – The central hub for visiting the other hells
