Beppu City, located in Oita Prefecture, northern Kyushu, is renowned as a famous hot spring destination in Japan. Within Beppu, there are over 200 public hot springs, making it a haven for those seeking soothing thermal waters.
In the classification of Japan’s 11 major hot springs, Beppu City boasts ten distinct types within its boundaries. Today, we explore the captivating “Sea Hell” (known as Beppu Hatto)—the most remarkable among the Beppu Onsen offerings
Transportation Details:
- Mode of Travel: To visit the “Sea Hell” and other fascinating hot springs in Beppu, I recommend taking the Beppu Hell Tour Course (Beppu Onsen Bus).
- Departure from Beppu Station: Buses depart from Beppu Station at the following times: 8:35 AM, 11:40 AM, and 2:40 PM. It’s advisable to arrive early and queue up.
- Boarding Location: Head to the east exit of JR Beppu Station.
- Ticket Purchase: Tickets can be purchased at the Tourist Information Center inside JR Beppu Station (operating hours: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM).
- Fare: The fare includes admission to all eight hellish hot springs. It’s ¥3,650 for adults and ¥1,740 for children.
- Route: The bus route covers the following attractions: Beppu Station → Kitahama Bus Center → Sea Hell → Oniishi Bozu Hell → Kamado Hell → Oniyama Hell → Shiraike Hell → Chinoike Hell → Tatsumaki Hell → Kitahama Bus Center → Beppu Station
If you plan to visit other hot springs along the way, keep in mind that each hot spring area charges an entrance fee of 400 Japanese yen. To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing a combination ticket.
Our primary focus today is the captivating “Sea Hell” (known as Beppu Hatto). Following this route, you can explore it within 30 minutes or less. However, we intend to take our time.
Sea Hell” (海地獄) stands out among the eight hellish hot springs in Beppu. It boasts the largest expanse and is a breathtaking natural wonder.
Our next goal is to indulge in three must-try delicacies at the captivating “Sea Hell” in Beppu:
- Gokuraku Manju (極樂饅頭): These delightful steamed buns are a heavenly treat.
- Umi Jō Onsen Tamago (海蒸溫泉蛋): Enjoy hot spring-boiled eggs, a unique culinary experience.
- Jigoku Yakibuta Pudding (地獄燒布丁): Don’t miss this devilishly delicious caramel pudding.
Before venturing into the azure hot springs of the “Blue Hell,” we first encounter a pool that gleams crimson like blood. However, this is not the true “Blood Hell”; it’s merely an accompanying smaller pool. Undoubtedly, the authentic “Blood Hell” hot spring must be even more awe-inspiring!
But why people tossed coins in here?
Within the park, there’s also a cultivation room for giant water lilies (Victoria amazonica), commonly known as “Oo-oni-basu”.
These enormous aquatic plants are famous for their massive floating leaves, which can exceed 2 meters in diameter. The leaves resemble those of the king lotus found in Taiwan, but on a much grander scale.
This captivating greenhouse is nurtured by the geothermal steam, creating an environment where these remarkable water lilies thrive.
Cacti come in various heights and display distinct growth patterns. Their plump leaves and stems can take on different forms. These remarkable succulents thrive in arid environments, efficiently storing water.
The expansive lotus pond captivates numerous visitors, each angle from which the pool is photographed revealing a unique perspective.
Utilizing the geothermal springs here, a lotus pond—famous throughout Japan for its tropical water lilies and giant lotus flowers.
This lemon leaf is the largest I’ve ever seen, resembling a vegetable in its expanse. Nourished by the abundant mineral-rich natural sulfur hot springs, the fruit grows large and plump.
So does this banana tree.
The entrance of the legendary “Sea Hell” is renowned for having the most accurate love fortune-telling slips in the world!
Sea Hell” has a shop right at the entrance that sells local specialties.
I purchased several unique hot spring bath salts from this shop.
“Sea Hell” is surrounded by rocks stained with sulfur, creating a stunning Tiffany blue hue that tempts you to reach out and touch it. However, beware—the water temperature here reaches a scorching 98°C!
“Sea Hell” has a mineral composition rich in sulfuric acid (ferrous sulfate). Its hot spring water reaches a scorching 98°C at a depth of 200 meters, making it ideal for boiling hot spring eggs. Have you noticed the structure resembling a fishing rod on the right? Below it hangs a basket where the eggs are being cooked.
Ascending the nearby staircase provides the best view of the underwater scene.
Despite its hellish name, this place is as ethereal as heaven. The natural sulfur steam from the hot spring billows gently, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. The spring water appears refreshingly azure.
Next, we arrive at a snack shop adjacent to the “Sea Hell” hot spring. Let’s explore and satisfy our taste buds!
They sell “地獄蒸し焼” ( Hell Roasted Pudding )and sulfur hot spring eggs here. Although not prominently displayed, the coffee is also brewed using geothermal steam.
Must-Try Delicacy 1: Hell Steamed Pudding
This unique dessert is made from simple ingredients—fresh eggs, milk, and sugar. Whether you have a sweet tooth or not, tasting this pudding, steamed using the distinct hot spring water, is an experience worth savoring!
Truly a heavenly delight! When I bought it, it was chilled. The moment I tasted it, I was greeted by an indescribable silky egg flavor. Surprisingly, there was no trace of sulfur scent. It’s refreshing and not overly sweet. Personally, I think the side effect of eating this is that I won’t crave any other store-bought pudding for a while!
Must-Try Delicacy: Hot Spring Eggs
Before leaving the shop, my friend purchased an entire bag of hot spring eggs. The plan is to enjoy them while soaking in a foot bath later.
While soaking our feet, we indulged in freshly cooked hot spring eggs, generously offered by our friend. The semi-soft egg yolk carried a subtle hint of sulfur, and when dipped in salt, it became a delightful and unique treat.
Today is Saturday, and despite the considerable number of tourists, we’re all gathered together to soak our feet in hot springs. The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a great way to relax our tired feet after covering quite a bit of ground so far. The feeling of immersing our feet in the warm water is truly soothing!
After the foot bath, we’re getting ready to leave. This very spot was graced by a joint visit from the Emperor and Empress of Japan, and in commemoration, a special monument stands here.
Must-Try Specialty #3: Paradise Steamed Buns
These delightful steamed buns are available near the park.
They are crafted using the unique geothermal heat from here.
The experience is sweet, comforting, and truly one-of-a-kind. Each box contains 15 of these delectable treats, priced at ¥600.
Inside the petite buns, you’ll find a luscious red bean filling.
