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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
H Beppu
Beppu Station is the main railway station for the city of Beppu in Ōita Prefecture, Japan, which is famous for its onsen.
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.
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.
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.'
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.
狭霧台
A scenic rest stop on the mountain road between Beppu and Yufuin, offering views of Mount Yufu and the surrounding valleys.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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