You may already know about a place called “Jigoku” (hell) in Beppu. In a chronicle from the Nara Era (8th century) called “Bungo Fudoki (豊後風土記),” it is written that fumaroles, hot mud, and boiling water have been gushing out of the Kannawa and Kamegawa Jigoku Area for more than 1,000 years. Because of these natural phenomena, it was considered to
Facing the sea and embraced by mountains, Beppu possesses many unique and attractive hot spring resort areas. One of them is Kannawa Onsen, which has become increasingly popular in recent years for its retro townscape and its steamy atmosphere. Let’s take a leisurely walk and see what we find… Charming Kannawa Onsen, Perfect for a Stroll Kannawa Onsen, one of
As Japan prepares to open its borders, it’s time to start making plans. Many of the usual destinations will be crowded with visitors, but for those willing to go a little further afield, unique delights await. Oita Prefecture offers an experience unlike any other in Japan. Why Oita Prefecture Set on the northeastern corner of Kyushu, one of Japan’s
A casual trip to a nearby place for a day trip or overnight stay is popular these days. For those in the Fukuoka area, I would like to recommend a road trip to the hot spring town of Beppu. At first glance, it may seem like a long way, but it is actually close enough that you can enjoy it
When it comes to sightseeing in Beppu, visiting hells is a given. There are many unique hells or natural onsen in the city, and today I will introduce Kamado Jigoku. Kamado Jigoku is a great place to enjoy six different kinds of hells, as well as gourmet food such as jigoku or hell-steamed pudding made with soy sauce and century
One fine day, while strolling through Beppu City’s downtown area, I could hear lively voices coming from one of the stores. The slightly nostalgic sake signboard caught my attention, and then I heard a woman’s voice say, “How have you been?” It was followed by the laughter of the customers along with the voice of the cheerful woman once more.
Did you know that in the area adjacent to the popular Umi Tamago Aquarium there is a special spot where you can have a very special experience? Takasakiyama Nature Park is a unique place where you can see many Japanese macaques that have been released into the wild. It is said that this is the only place in Japan where
There are many delicious foods in Beppu, Oita Prefecture, but one of the most beloved among them is Dango-jiru (Dango soup, it is usually called “Dago”-jiru in Kyushu area). In Beppu City, there are many restaurants where you can enjoy this prefectural food. This time, I went to Bungochaya, a popular diner inside Beppu Station, which is known for its
When you visit Beppu, you should definitely check out the souvenirs that are full of local charm. Beppu is famous for Jigokumushi Pudding (hell-steamed pudding), but there is a great variation of souvenirs to be found!This time, I went to Beppu’s downtown area to look for some great souvenirs. Beppu’s Famous Zabon-Zuke Shop Have you ever heard of zabon-zuke or
This time, I would like to introduce you to Onishi-Bozu Jigoku or Hell, one of the most popular hells in Beppu! Onishi-Bozu Jigoku translates as ‘Hell of the Monk’s Head’ and is named after the bubbles that form in the hot mud, causing it to swell up like a shaved head. Tourism here started after the Meiji Era (1868-1912) but