Best things to do in Beppu

Beppu's Geothermal Wonders & Essential Sights

Beppu is a geothermal hub centered around its eight distinct hot spring districts. The city features the 'Hells of Beppu,' a series of spectacular thermal ponds including the cobalt-blue Umi Jigoku and the iron-rich Chinoike Jigoku. Beyond the steam, the landscape is defined by historic wooden bathhouses like Takegawara Onsen and architectural landmarks such as the Naito-designed Beppu Tower. Elevated observatories across the city provide specific vantage points for viewing the rising steam plumes that characterize the skyline.

Beppu's Geothermal Wonders & Essential Sights — Map

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A

Umi Jigoku

A cobalt blue thermal pond created by a volcanic eruption 1,200 years ago. The site features spacious gardens and a greenhouse where giant Victoria amazonica water lilies are cultivated.

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B

Chinoike Jigoku

Japan's oldest natural 'hell' features a pond of steaming red water colored by iron oxide and magnesium. The site includes a large shop selling traditional red clay ointments.

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C

Shiraike Jigoku

A hot spring pond of milky white water surrounded by a traditional Japanese garden. The facility also houses an aquarium featuring tropical fish species, including piranhas.

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D

Tatsumaki Jigoku

A pressurized geyser that erupts approximately every 30 to 40 minutes, reaching heights of up to 20 meters. It is designated as a National Scenic Beauty site.

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E

Kamado Jigoku

Features six different thermal ponds of varying colors and temperatures. Historically, the steam was used to cook ritual offerings for the nearby Kamado Hachiman Shrine.

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F

Oniishi Bozu Jigoku

Named for the gray mud bubbles that resemble the shaven heads of monks. The site includes a public footbath and a separate modern onsen facility.

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G

Takegawara Onsen

Established in 1879, this historic bathhouse features Karahafu-style wooden architecture. It is famous for its traditional sand baths where bathers are buried in naturally heated volcanic sand.

大分帰省中 / CC BY-SA 3.0

H

Beppu

Beppu Station is the main railway station for the city of Beppu in Ōita Prefecture, Japan, which is famous for its onsen.

I

Beppu Tower

Completed in 1957, this 90-meter observation tower was designed by Tachu Naito. It offers 360-degree views of Beppu Bay and the surrounding mountains from its 55-meter high deck.

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J

B-CON PLAZA

A multi-purpose convention center designed by Arata Isozaki. It hosts international conferences and cultural events within its modern glass and steel structure.

K

Steam viewpoint

An elevated observation point offering views of the Kannawa district's rising steam plumes. It is recognized as one of the '100 Night Views of Japan.'

L

十文字原展望台

A viewpoint located at an altitude of 500 meters, providing panoramic vistas of Beppu city, the bay, and the distant Oita city lights.

M

狭霧台

A scenic rest stop on the mountain road between Beppu and Yufuin, offering views of Mount Yufu and the surrounding valleys.

N

Global Tower

A 125-meter tall architectural landmark featuring an open-air observation deck at 100 meters. The glass-walled platform provides views of the city's geothermal activity and the sea.

O

貴船城

A 1957 reproduction of a traditional Japanese castle built to overlook the city. It houses a large white python and offers views of the Kannawa district.

P

城島高原パーク

An amusement park located on the Kijima Plateau, known for 'Jupiter,' Japan's first wooden roller coaster. It also features a golf course and a winter ice skating rink.

大分帰省中 / CC BY-SA 3.0

Q

ラクテンチ

A hillside amusement park founded in 1929, accessible via a steep funicular railway. It features a unique double Ferris wheel and a suspension bridge.