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Beppu
Beppu, located on Kyushu island, is Japan's premier hot spring resort town. The city is defined by the constant clouds of steam rising from its streets, a testament to its status as the world's second-largest producer of geothermal water. The most famous attractions are the 'Hells of Beppu' (Jigoku), a series of memorable thermal pools for viewing rather than bathing, including the blood-red Chinoike Jigoku and the cobalt-blue Umi Jigoku. Visitors can indulge in a variety of spa treatments beyond standard baths, such as natural sand baths on the coast or therapeutic mud baths. A local culinary highlight is 'Jigoku Mushi,' where fresh ingredients are steamed using the natural heat from the springs. For a bird's-eye view of the steaming cityscape and the bay, the Beppu Ropeway ascends Mount Tsurumi. Beppu is easily accessible via the Shinkansen and local express trains. While popular year-round, the experience is particularly atmospheric in autumn and winter when the steam is most visible.
- Location: Japan
- Top sights: Beppu Catholic Church · Beppu Tower · Hamawaki Hot Spring
- Nearby: Yufuin (15 km)
- Population: ~122.643 (2022)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 5 | 6 | 9 | 13 | 18 | 22 | 25 | 26 | 23 | 18 | 13 | 7 |
| Rain mm | 70 | 88 | 118 | 138 | 160 | 318 | 356 | 198 | 211 | 118 | 87 | 78 |
Geography
Facts
- Features over 2,000 registered hot springs.
- Home to the famous 'Seven Hells of Beppu'.
- Offers unique natural sand baths by the sea.
- Famous for 'Jigoku Mushi' steam-cooked cuisine.
- The historic Takegawara Onsen is a top landmark.
- World's second-largest producer of thermal water.
- The ropeway provides sweeping views of the bay.
- Renowned for therapeutic mineral mud baths.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Beppu (16)
Beppu Tower🌿 nature
An iconic lattice tower designed by Tachū Naitō, opened in 1957, offering sweeping coastal views.
Hamawaki Hot Spring🎡 recreation
A historic public bathhouse located in the traditional birthplace of the city's celebrated hot spring culture.
Frequently asked questions
Beppu: where is it located?
Beppu: what is there to see?
Beppu: when is the best time to visit?
Beppu: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
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