Beppu Hells
Beppu, Oita, Japan
The Beppu Hells are a collection of seven geothermal hot springs scattered across Beppu's Kannawa and Kamegawa regions, each one too hot to enter but far…
What it's like here
The Beppu Hells are a collection of seven geothermal hot springs scattered across Beppu's Kannawa and Kamegawa regions, each one too hot to enter but far too striking to miss. Rather than places to bathe, they are natural spectacles—a tour through an otherworldly landscape where steam rises constantly and sulfur hangs in the air, where the ground itself seems alive with geothermal energy.
Each hell has its own distinct personality and color. Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) glows in a stunning cobalt blue, while Chinoike Jigoku earns its name—Blood Pond Hell—with vivid crimson waters. Tatsumaki Jigoku erupts in a dramatic geyser of boiling water, and Shiraike Jigoku appears as a milky white pool. Four of the seven have been officially designated by the Japanese government as Places of Scenic Beauty, a recognition of their geological and visual importance. Walking between them, you move through lush gardens that seem improbable given the volcanic drama beneath your feet.
The experience balances the surreal with the accessible. Despite the otherworldly surroundings, many of the hells offer foot baths where you can soak your feet in the hot spring water—a chance to feel the warmth and relax while taking in the unusual landscape around you. Photography is welcomed, making it easy to capture the vivid colors and steam that define each site. The setting suits a leisurely half-day or full-day visit, with morning and afternoon light both revealing different qualities of these remarkable natural formations.
Beppu's Hells are designed for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups of friends alike. Accessible parking, toilets, and wheelchair access mean the experience is open to a wide range of visitors. Cafés on-site provide food and refreshment as you move between the different hells, turning the day into an unhurried exploration of one of Japan's most distinctive natural wonders.
Highlights
- Seven unique geothermal hot springs, each with distinct color and character
- Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) with its striking cobalt blue waters
- Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) in vivid crimson
- Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell) featuring a boiling geyser eruption
- Foot baths where you can soak in hot spring water among the hells
Good to know
The seven hells are spread across Beppu's Kannawa and Kamegawa regions; a full day allows you to visit all of them comfortably, including travel time between sites. Individual admission fees apply per hell, though combination tickets are available. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be moving between different locations. Some hells offer foot baths and steam treatments. The sites are accessible by bus from Beppu Station, and facilities include parking, toilets, and cafés.
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Questions people ask
What are the Beppu Hells?
The Beppu Hells are seven geothermal hot springs that are too hot to bathe in but are viewed instead for their spectacular colors and unique natural characteristics. They are among Japan's most famous natural attractions.
How many hells are there and what are they called?
There are seven main hells: Umi Jigoku, Oniyama Jigoku, Oniishi Bozu Jigoku, Kamado Jigoku, Shiraike Jigoku, Tatsumaki Jigoku, and Chinoike Jigoku.
How long does it take to visit all seven hells?
A full day allows you to visit all seven hells comfortably, including travel time between sites and stops for foot baths and refreshments.
Attributes & facilities
Experience
Accessibility
Last verified: August 13, 2026