9 Best Stops on a Unique Hells of Beppu Tour (2026)

Introduction to the Kannawa District

Kannawa is the heart of Beppu's famous hot springs. Steam rises from the streets and drains here constantly. It feels like a scene from a fantasy movie. This area hosts most of the famous hells.

Walking through the streets is a sensory experience. You can feel the warmth of the earth underfoot. A Beppu walking tour of Kannawa is highly recommended. Locals use the steam for heating and cooking.

Many traditional inns are located in this historic neighborhood. You can see white steam clouds against the green hills. The district is very easy to navigate on foot. It serves as the perfect base for your tour.

9 Best Stops on a Unique Hells of Beppu Tour

Walking between the hells is very easy for most. Most sites are within a short walk of each other. You should wear comfortable shoes for this walking trip. The steam creates a very mystic atmosphere for photos.

Take your time at each unique volcanic stop. Some sites have small foot baths available for free. These are great for resting your tired feet. Bring a small towel for your feet during visits.

Each hell offers something different for every traveler. Some focus on color while others focus on animals. You will learn about the local geology at each. The tour is both educational and visually stunning.

1. Umi Jigoku The Famous Cobalt Blue Sea Hell
   • Type: volcanic hot spring sight
   • Why go: Beautiful blue water and lotus flowers.
   • Best for: Scenic photography and nature lovers.
   • Where: Central Kannawa district near bus stops.
   • Time: Forty minutes for a full visit.
   • Cost: About four hundred yen per person.
   • Getting there: Take bus five from Beppu Station.
   • Tip: Buy the cobalt blue pudding here.
2. Oniishibozu Jigoku The Bubbling Gray Mud Hell
   • Type: bubbling mud pool sight
   • Why go: Mud bubbles look like monk heads.
   • Best for: Watching unique geological patterns.
   • Where: Right next to the Sea Hell.
   • Time: Thirty minutes to see everything.
   • Cost: Included in the main tour pass.
   • Getting there: Walk from the Umi Jigoku entrance.
   • Tip: Try the foot bath on site.
3. Kamado Jigoku The Cooking Pot Hell Variety
   • Type: multi-pond thermal attraction
   • Why go: Six different types of hot springs.
   • Best for: Families wanting variety and snacks.
   • Where: A short walk from Oniishibozu Jigoku.
   • Time: Forty-five minutes for all ponds.
   • Cost: Standard entry or tour pass.
   • Getting there: Follow the well-marked walking path.
   • Tip: Drink the healthy thermal water here.
4. Oniyama Jigoku The Unique Crocodile Breeding Hell
   • Type: animal attraction and spring
   • Why go: See crocodiles in warm spring water.
   • Best for: Kids and animal enthusiasts.
   • Where: Located in the lower Kannawa area.
   • Time: Thirty minutes to view crocodiles.
   • Cost: Part of the official hells pass.
   • Getting there: Walk down from Kamado Jigoku.
   • Tip: Check the feeding times for action.
5. Shiraike Jigoku The Peaceful White Pond Hell
   • Type: milky white hot spring
   • Why go: Calm water in a Japanese garden.
   • Best for: Relaxation and traditional garden views.
   • Where: Near the center of Kannawa village.
   • Time: Twenty-five minutes for a stroll.
   • Cost: Included in the group ticket.
   • Getting there: Easy walk from Oniyama Jigoku.
   • Tip: Visit the small aquarium on site.
6. Chinoike Jigoku The Striking Blood Pond Hell
   • Type: red mineral hot spring
   • Why go: Bright red water from natural clay.
   • Best for: Dramatic photos and unique souvenirs.
   • Where: Located in the Shibaseki district area.
   • Time: Thirty minutes for the site.
   • Cost: Standard individual or pass entry.
   • Getting there: Take a bus to Shibaseki area.
   • Tip: Buy the red clay skin cream.
7. Tatsumaki Jigoku The Powerful Boiling Geyser Hell
   • Type: natural hot water geyser
   • Why go: Watch water spray every thirty minutes.
   • Best for: Seeing raw geothermal energy live.
   • Where: Next door to the Blood Pond.
   • Time: Twenty minutes depending on eruptions.
   • Cost: Included in the official pass.
   • Getting there: Walk from Chinoike Jigoku entrance.
   • Tip: Ask staff for the next eruption.
8. Jigoku Mushi Kobo The Volcanic Steam Kitchen
   • Type: interactive local dining experience
   • Why go: Cook your own food in steam.
   • Best for: Lunch and trying local vegetables.
   • Where: Center of the Kannawa district.
   • Time: One hour for cooking and eating.
   • Cost: Pay for food and timer rental.
   • Getting there: Walk from Shiraike Jigoku nearby.
   • Tip: Rent a timer for perfect eggs.
9. Hyotan Onsen The Award Winning Sand Bath
   • Type: traditional hot spring and bath
   • Why go: Relax in naturally heated black sand.
   • Best for: Spa lovers and deep relaxation.
   • Where: Lower part of the Kannawa area.
   • Time: Two hours for a full soak.
   • Cost: Separate entry fee for the bath.
   • Getting there: Short walk from the bus stop.
   • Tip: Drink plenty of water after bathing.

How to Use the Jigoku Meguri Pass

Buy the "Jigoku Meguri" pass for the best value. This ticket covers all seven official hells easily. You can buy it at any hell entrance. It is valid for two days total usually.

The pass saves you money over single tickets. You also get a small discount book often. Learn how to visit Beppu onsen for more tips. Keep your ticket safe during your entire tour.

Individual tickets are available if you lack time. Most people prefer the full pass for convenience. It makes moving between sites much faster. The pass is a great souvenir itself.

The Best Time to Visit Beppu Hells

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. The sites open at eight in the morning. Weekdays are much quieter than busy weekends. You will have better views for your photos.

Autumn is a beautiful time for the gardens. The red leaves match the steam very well. Winter makes the steam look even more dramatic. Spring brings cherry blossoms to the park areas.

Check the weather before you start your walk. Rainy days can make the steam very thick. Summer can be very hot near the boiling water. Late afternoon light is perfect for the geyser.

Unique Food Experiences in Beppu

Beppu offers food you cannot find elsewhere. Steam from the earth cooks local ingredients perfectly. Try the "onsen tamago" which are steamed eggs. They have a unique and salty flavor.

The hell-steamed pudding is a local favorite dessert. It is creamy and made with thermal heat. You can find more Beppu activities involving local food. Eating is a big part of the culture.

Many shops sell steamed buns filled with meat. These are perfect for a quick walking snack. The steam keeps the food very moist and hot. Always look for the bamboo steaming baskets.

Travel Tips for Your Beppu Trip

Beppu is easy to reach from nearby Fukuoka. Take the Sonic Express train for a fast trip. The journey takes about two hours one way. Use a bus pass for cheap local travel.

There are many free things to do in Beppu too. Public foot baths are often free for everyone. Always carry a small towel in your bag. It is useful for drying off after baths.

Respect the local rules at each hot spring. Do not touch the boiling water at all. Stay on the marked paths for your safety. The heat is very intense near the ponds.