BEPPU JIGOKU MEGURI / Beppu City

Even among the onsen–renowned Beppu, Beppu Jigoku Meguri (Touring The Hells of Beppu) stands out in particular as one of the most unique tourist attractions in the area. Beppu Jigoku Meguri is a tourist attraction that features a number of differently coloured and shaped areas that contain fumaroles (naturally occurring hot vents), hot mud, and boiling water, all originating from deep underground. These pools are collectively known as The Seven Hells. The whimsical combination of vivid rising steam, ponds of boiling water in natural shades of blue and red, and bubbling boiling mud makes it feel like you are wandering through otherworldly realms. Some of these “hells” even offer hands–on experiences, such as being able to observe crocodiles living in the hot water pools, and sampling the local speciality jigoku (hell) steamed pudding.

In Beppu, these hot spring spots are called jigoku. This word used to be linked to troublemakers and made it difficult to enter, however, thanks to the efforts of those who worked to rebrand the area, it is now positively associated with the hot springs, tourism, and gourmet experiences which support Beppu. This is a destination where both children and adults can fully appreciate Beppu’s hot spring culture, and learn first–hand that hot springs offer more than just bathing!