Discover the Fiery Wonders of Beppu: The Jigoku Meguri Experience
Located in Beppu, Oita Prefecture, the Jigoku Meguri—literally “Hell Tour”—offers one of Japan’s most extraordinary hot spring experiences. Unlike traditional onsen bathing, these “hells” are for viewing only, showcasing a dramatic range of steaming, boiling, and vividly colored geothermal wonders. With its striking natural beauty and volcanic spectacle, the Beppu Jigoku Meguri is a must-see for any traveler seeking to explore the raw power of Japan's volcanic landscape.
Umi Jigoku – The Mysterious Blue Hell
Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) features a stunning cobalt-blue hot spring pond that steams mysteriously throughout the day. Despite its calm and beautiful surface, the water temperature reaches a scalding 98°C (208°F). Set against a tranquil garden and featuring a tropical greenhouse heated by the steam, this hell is one of the most visually captivating stops on the tour.
Oniishibozu Jigoku – Bubbling Mud of the Monks
Named after the monk-like bubbles that form on its gray mud surface, Oniishibozu Jigoku is a fascinating sight. The boiling mud constantly bubbles up in circular patterns, evoking an eerie yet peaceful rhythm. It’s a reminder of the intense geothermal forces lying just beneath your feet.
Kamado Jigoku – The Cooking Pot Hell
Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell) gets its name from traditional Japanese rice-cooking pots. This hell offers multiple bubbling ponds in a variety of colors—blue, red, white—and even features steam-heated footbaths and snacks cooked by volcanic heat. Don’t miss the occasional live demonstrations where staff use steam to "boil" food and water right before your eyes!
Oniyama Jigoku – The Monster’s Domain
Oniyama Jigoku (Demon Mountain Hell) showcases the raw energy of hot spring steam combined with a surprising resident: over 70 crocodiles. The warm geothermal heat provides an ideal breeding environment, and the resulting steam-powered crocodile habitat adds an unexpected twist to the volcanic theme park atmosphere.
Chinoike Jigoku – The Bloody Hell
Perhaps the most dramatic of all, Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) features a naturally red-hot clay pond. The vibrant crimson color is caused by high iron oxide content in the water, and the surreal landscape has long been associated with ancient legends and supernatural folklore. It’s also one of the oldest recorded hot springs in Japan’s history.