Heavenly Trip Through the 7 Hells of Beppu

Beppu, a serene city on Japan’s Kyushu Island, is celebrated for its vast number of hot springs (onsen). With over 2,000 onsen, it is often hailed as Japan's hot springs capital. My visit to Beppu was a memorable experience—calm, relaxed, and enriched by the kindness of the locals. One of the highlights was exploring the famous 7 Hells of Beppu (Jigoku, meaning “hell” in Japanese), a collection of dramatic hot springs that showcase the raw power of geothermal energy.

Despite their ominous name, the 7 Hells provide a heavenly experience for any traveler, thanks to the calm atmosphere, cleanliness, and the friendly hospitality of the Japanese people. The springs are too hot for bathing, but their visual spectacle is worth the visit.

Effortless Day Trip with Friendly Locals

One of the most remarkable aspects of the 7 Hells Tour is the ease of exploring the entire circuit in a single day. Beppu’s efficient public transportation system makes visiting all the hot springs seamless. Buses from Beppu Station run with pinpoint accuracy, dropping visitors right at the entrances of the 7 Hells. The springs are located in the Kannawa and Shibaseki districts, just a short ride apart, making it easy to explore without any rush. Whether you need directions, help with transportation, or recommendations, the local people are always eager to assist, making the trip truly enjoyable.

The 7 Hells of Beppu: A Journey Through Nature's Geothermal Wonders

1. Tatsumaki Jigoku (Spout Hell)
   Temperature: 150°C (geysers)
   Tatsumaki Jigoku offers something unique—a natural geyser that erupts every 30-40 minutes, shooting hot water and steam up to 50 meters into the air. The geyser, while harnessed for safety, is a powerful reminder of the forces beneath the earth's surface. The eruptions are spectacular, and there’s a covered viewing area, making it a perfect spot to sit and witness nature’s grand display.

2. Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell)
   Temperature: 78°C
   Perhaps the most famous of the 7 Hells, Chinoike Jigoku is a striking blood-red pool caused by iron-rich minerals in the water. The visual impact is intense, yet the place feels peaceful, as the steam rises lazily from the crimson pond. There’s also a shop where you can buy products made from the minerals in the spring, adding an extra layer of curiosity to the visit.

3. Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell)
   Temperature: 98°C
   Umi Jigoku is known for its stunning cobalt-blue water that gets its color from natural minerals. This “sea of hell” is perhaps the most visually striking, set amidst lush gardens. The water is incredibly hot, reaching temperatures of 98°C, and there’s a peaceful serenity to the place despite its steamy origins. I also enjoyed sampling some of the hot spring-steamed eggs (onsen tamago) sold nearby.

4. Oniishibozu Jigoku (Shaven Head Hell)
   Temperature: 99°C
   Named after the bubbles of boiling grey mud that resemble the shaved heads of monks (bozu), this spring had a unique, hypnotic feel. Watching the slow rise of the mud bubbles was oddly calming. There’s a relaxing foot bath here too, where you can soak your feet in the spring’s hot water, adding to the tranquil experience.

5. Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell)
   Temperature: 95°C
   Shiraike Jigoku stands out with its milky-white water, which comes from calcium-rich minerals. The surrounding Japanese garden adds a layer of tranquility to the stark, otherworldly white pool. I found this place to be particularly peaceful. There’s also a small aquarium attached where tropical fish are on display.

6. Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell)
   Temperature: 90°C to 100°C
   Kamado Jigoku is a lively spot with multiple boiling pools in various colors, ranging from turquoise to reddish-brown. Locals say that the heat here could “cook anything,” hence the name. Visitors are even invited to steam their own food in the natural geothermal heat. The energy of this site was infectious, with locals enthusiastically explaining the best ways to enjoy the experience.

7. Oniyama Jigoku (Demon Mountain Hell)
   Temperature: 99°C
   Known for the large number of alligators kept in the warm waters surrounding the spring, Oniyama Jigoku is both fascinating and a little wild. The spring itself emits steam clouds so thick it almost looks like a constant geyser. It’s a thrilling experience to see such powerful natural forces at work, and the alligators add an exotic touch to the visit.

 

All of these Jigoku are conveniently located close to each other, with public buses running frequently and reliably. I found that each hell had something unique to offer, and none of them felt repetitive. Beppu’s efficient transport and friendly locals ensure that you can comfortably complete the tour in about 5-6 hours, even allowing for plenty of time to relax and take in the sights at each stop.

Friendly and Calm Atmosphere

The entire journey through the 7 Hells was marked by an overwhelming sense of peace. Each location was immaculately clean, and the atmosphere was consistently calm and welcoming. What stood out most to me, aside from the natural beauty, was the friendliness of the Japanese people. From bus drivers to vendors and passersby, everyone I encountered went out of their way to help, making me feel truly welcomed.

Each spring provided a unique experience, yet together they painted a picture of the incredible geothermal forces that make Beppu the hot springs capital of Japan. 

If you’re looking for a unique and accessible day trip, packed with natural beauty, cultural intrigue, and a sense of calm, the 7 Hells of Beppu should be at the top of your list. Add some local treats and a foot bath, and you’ve got the perfect day!