Travel : Beppu - Highlights of Japan's hotspring destination

 

Beppu, located in Oita Prefecture on Japan’s Kyushu island, is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring (onsen) destinations. Renowned for having the highest volume of hot spring water in Japan and second in the world after Yellowstone, Beppu offers a unique variety of thermal experiences, from relaxing baths to spectacular geothermal sights. Known as the "City of Steam," it is famous for its "Hells of Beppu"—a collection of scenic hot springs that are too hot for bathing but are visually stunning. Beppu is also a city with a rich culinary tradition and picturesque natural surroundings, making it an excellent destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Best Spots to Visit in Detail

1. Hells of Beppu (Jigoku Meguri)

The Hells of Beppu are seven hot springs known for their extreme temperatures and striking natural beauty. Each "hell" has its own unique characteristics, such as the blood-red waters of Chinoike Jigoku and the cobalt-blue Umi Jigoku. These hot springs are for viewing only, as the water is far too hot for bathing.

Highlight: The scenic beauty and atmospheric steam rising from these geothermal wonders make them one of Beppu’s most iconic attractions.

2. Takegawara Onsen

One of Beppu’s oldest hot spring baths, Takegawara Onsen is known for its traditional architecture and the unique experience of a sand bath, where visitors are buried in warm sand heated by geothermal activity.

Highlight: Enjoy a soothing sand bath followed by a relaxing soak in the hot springs.

3. Beppu Park

Located in the center of the city, Beppu Park is a peaceful oasis where visitors can enjoy beautifully manicured gardens, ponds, and seasonal flowers. It's especially popular during cherry blossom season in spring and the colorful foliage of autumn.

Highlight: A serene spot for a stroll or a picnic, offering a break from the city’s geothermal attractions.

4. Myoban Onsen

Located on a hill overlooking Beppu, Myoban Onsen is known for its unique mineral-rich, milky-white waters. The area is also home to traditional Yunohana huts, where locals harvest bath salts from the geothermal springs.

Highlight: Enjoy outdoor baths with a panoramic view of the city and Beppu Bay, while experiencing the health benefits of the mineral-rich waters.

5. Beppu Ropeway and Mount Tsurumi

The Beppu Ropeway takes visitors to the top of Mount Tsurumi, offering spectacular views of Beppu, the surrounding mountains, and the nearby coastline. The area is also popular for its seasonal beauty, including cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall.

Highlight: On a clear day, the view stretches as far as Shikoku island.

6. Kijima Kogen Park

A family-friendly amusement park, Kijima Kogen Park offers roller coasters, rides, and attractions for visitors of all ages. It’s a great destination for those traveling with children or for anyone looking for a fun break from the hot springs.

Highlight: The park’s wooden roller coaster, Jupiter, is a popular attraction, known for its scenic ride through forested hills.

Best Seasons to Visit Beppu

1. Spring (March to May)

Spring is a beautiful time to visit Beppu, with mild weather and cherry blossoms blooming throughout the city, especially in parks and along the coast.

Weather: 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).

2. Summer (June to August)

Summer is warm and humid, but the onsen remain popular as visitors enjoy the contrast between the hot springs and the surrounding greenery. Festivals and fireworks displays are common during this season.

Weather: 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).

3. Autumn (September to November)

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, making it one of the best times to visit Beppu, especially for hiking and enjoying the natural scenery around the hot springs.

Weather: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

4. Winter (December to February)

Winter is a popular season for visiting Beppu’s hot springs, as the colder weather makes the warm onsen even more inviting. Beppu’s steam-filled landscape is particularly atmospheric in winter.

Weather: 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F).

Best Cuisines in Beppu

1. Jigoku Mushi (Hell-Steamed Cuisine)

Beppu’s geothermal activity is not only for bathing—it’s also used for cooking. Jigoku Mushi involves steaming vegetables, seafood, and meats in the natural hot spring steam, creating tender and flavorful dishes.

Where to Try: Jigoku Mushi Kobo offers a hands-on experience where visitors can steam their own food using geothermal steam.

2. Toriten (Chicken Tempura)

A local specialty, Toriten is fried chicken tempura served with ponzu sauce or mustard. It’s a light, crispy dish that pairs well with a variety of local side dishes.

Where to Try: Many restaurants in Beppu offer this dish, including Toyoken.

3. Seki Aji and Seki Saba

Beppu is famous for its fresh seafood, especially Seki Aji (horse mackerel) and Seki Saba (mackerel). These fish are known for their firm texture and rich flavor and are often served as sushi or sashimi.

Where to Try: Sushi restaurants near Beppu Bay are known for serving the freshest catches of the day.

4. Dangojiru

This traditional soup made with wheat flour dumplings, vegetables, and miso broth is a hearty dish often enjoyed during the colder months.

Where to Try: Local family-run restaurants often serve Dangojiru as part of set meals.

5. Yufuin Milk Pudding

A popular dessert in the Beppu region, Yufuin milk pudding is a creamy, sweet pudding made from locally sourced milk.

Where to Try: Yufuin Floral Village or dessert cafes in nearby Yufuin, another hot spring town close to Beppu.

Airlines and Connectivity

1. Oita Airport (OIT)

The closest airport to Beppu is Oita Airport, located about 40 kilometers from the city. The airport offers domestic flights to major Japanese cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, as well as some international flights to destinations like Seoul and Shanghai.

Airlines: ANA, Japan Airlines (JAL), and Peach Aviation are the main carriers operating out of Oita Airport.

Travel Time: A direct bus from Oita Airport to Beppu takes approximately 50 minutes.

2. Train Connectivity

Beppu is well-connected by the JR Kyushu rail network, with Beppu Station being a stop on the Nippō Main Line. Travelers can reach Beppu from Fukuoka (Hakata Station) in about 2 hours via the Sonic Limited Express.

Beppu Station is centrally located, making it convenient for travelers to explore the city and its hot springs.

3. Ferry Connectivity

There are ferry services connecting Beppu to Shikoku and Osaka, providing an alternative mode of transportation for visitors looking to travel by sea.

4. Road Connectivity

Beppu is accessible via the Kyushu Expressway and is well-connected to other major cities on the island, including Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Miyazaki. Driving through Kyushu’s scenic countryside can be an enjoyable way to explore the region.

Beppu offers a unique combination of geothermal wonders, cultural experiences, and exquisite cuisine, making it an unforgettable destination for visitors seeking relaxation and adventure alike.