The Beppu region has a large number of natural hot springs, with the volcanic mud feature known as Oni-bōzu Jigoku one of the most memorable. Journey here to understand why this spring, known as Monk’s Hell or Shaven Head Hell, has attracted visitors for centuries. Enjoy a relaxing walk through landscaped gardens surrounded by lush greenery and atmospheric white steam.
Don’t be repelled by the word hell. Beppu’s remarkable volcanic hot springs are called hells or jigokus because of their otherworldly appearance and extreme heat. Each one has its own character. Visit Oni-bōzu Jigoku to see one of the area’s few mud springs. Look into the swirling, bubbling, mineral-rich mud and try to discern the resemblance to the top of a monk’s shaved head.
At a temperature of nearly 212 F (100 C), these springs are good for observing, not wading. Enjoy the clear water of a nearby footbath or try the pools of a public bath. Purchase a treat from the convenient snack bar. At local restaurants offering hell cuisine, try the jigoku mushi, prepared using health-boosting boiling steam from Beppu’s springs.
Stroll through the manicured gardens around the spring. Savor the soothing sound of bubbling mud and watch white steam rising from crevices in the ground. The mud springs originated over 500 years ago in an earthquake that blew apart a temple here. Take photos of the crater and ruins.
After visiting Oni-bōzu Jigoku, continue on to see other spectacular hot springs in the Beppu region. Admire the azure water and water lilies of Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), have food prepared in hot spring water at Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell) or spot crocodiles at Oniyama Jigoku (Devil Mountain Hell).
Find Oni-bōzu Jigoku in the Kannawa District of Beppu, north of the city center. Ride a bus from JR Beppu Station for about 20 minutes, then take a brief walk to the springs. Alternatively, rent a car and use the free parking available. Check online for current operating hours. The public baths are open only in the morning. Fees are discounted for children.
