Beppu is a charming city located in Oita Prefecture, Japan. Known for its hot springs and stunning natural beauty, Beppu is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists looking to relax and unwind.
The city is home to a multitude of hot springs, with the famous "Hell Tour" offering visitors the chance to explore several unique and colorful thermal springs. These range from steaming geysers and bubbling mud pools to mineral-rich waters believed to have healing properties.
In addition to its hot springs, Beppu offers a range of other attractions, including the beautiful Beppu Beach, where visitors can soak up the sun and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters. The city is also home to a number of cultural sites, such as the historic Kannawa District, which is filled with traditional Japanese buildings and charming shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
Food lovers will also delight in Beppu's culinary offerings, which include delicious local specialties such as jigoku mushi, a steamed hot pot dish cooked using the city's natural geothermal heat.
Overall, Beppu offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience, combining relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural heritage in one picturesque setting. Whether you're looking to unwind in a hot spring, explore the city's cultural offerings, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery, Beppu has something for everyone.
What to explore:
1. Beppu Hells (Jigoku): These natural hot springs are a major tourist attraction in Beppu. There are several different hells to visit, each with its own unique characteristics such as blue water, red clay, and bubbling mud.
2. Takegawara Onsen: This historic hot spring bathhouse is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Relax in the traditional wooden baths and soak up the healing waters.
3. Beppu Tower: Enjoy panoramic views of Beppu city and the surrounding area from the observation deck of Beppu Tower. It's a great spot to take in the sights and get your bearings in the city.
4. Beppu Beach Sand Bath: Experience a unique way to relax and rejuvenate by burying yourself in warm sand at Beppu Beach Sand Bath. The natural minerals in the sand are believed to have healing properties.
5. Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell): Another one of the famous hells in Beppu, Umi Jigoku features a striking blue pond with steam rising up from the water. There are also gardens and a small zoo on the grounds to explore.
6. Beppu Global Tower: This modern tower offers a different perspective of Beppu city from its observation deck. It's a great place to take photos and enjoy the view.
7. Beppu City Traditional Bamboo Crafts Center: Learn about the traditional art of bamboo crafting in Beppu and shop for unique souvenirs at the Bamboo Crafts Center.
8. Beppu Ropeway: Take a ride on the Beppu Ropeway for stunning views of Mount Tsurumi and the surrounding landscape. It's a great way to see the natural beauty of the area from above.