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Offered languages
- German
- English
- Italian
- French
- Spanish
Start your day with a guided visit to Beppu’s famous Umi Jigoku and Oniishi Jigoku, followed by a scenic ride on the Beppu Ropeway to Mt. Tsurumi’s summit. Enjoy cool mountain air and panoramic views with your English-speaking guide by private car.
After descending, you’ll board a local bus (without the guide) and head to the charming hot spring town of Yufuin. From this point, the tour becomes self-guided. You’ll receive a custom English map with recommendations for walking through Yufuin’s highlights—Yunotsubo Street, Lake Kinrinko, cafés, shops, and hot springs. This format gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
If you would prefer a private driver or guide in Yufuin, optional arrangements are available upon request. However, the self-guided format is the most budget-friendly and flexible option.
Please note: This tour does not include travel insurance. We strongly recommend that all participants have valid overseas travel insurance, as we cannot take responsibility
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point: In front of the cafeteria next to Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), Kannawa Onsen area. ️ From Beppu Station (別府駅): 1. By Bus (recommended) • Go to Beppu Station West Exit (西口) Bus Terminal, platform #2. • Take Kamenoi Bus #5, #7, or #9 bound for Kannawa (鉄輪).
This tour ends in Yufuin. You can take a direct bus from Yufuin Station back to Beppu (approx. 1 hour). Alternatively, you may choose to stay overnight in Yufuin.
Itinerary
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1
Umi Jigoku, meaning “Sea Hell,” is one of Beppu’s most iconic hot spring sites. Formed over 1,200 years ago by a volcanic explosion, this striking geothermal pool features vivid cobalt-blue water that resembles a tropical sea. However, the temperature reaches nearly 98°C (208°F), making it too hot to enter. Surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, bamboo groves, and traditional pavilions, the area offers a peaceful atmosphere despite its fiery origin. Visitors can also enjoy footbaths, view bubbling mud pools, and try the famous “jigoku-mushi” steamed pudding made using the natural heat of the hot springs.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
2
Oniishi Jigoku, or “Oniishi Hell,” is one of Beppu’s lesser-known but most dynamic hot spring sites. Its name comes from a local legend about a giant demon (oni) who once lived in the area. The hot spring here is a powerful boiling pool of red-colored water, created by high iron content in the earth. The thick steam rising from the surface and the intense heat give it a truly hellish feel. The site also features a relaxing footbath and well-kept gardens that contrast beautifully with the raw energy of the spring. Fewer crowds make Oniishi Jigoku a quiet, immersive stop along the famous “Jigoku Meguri” hot spring tour.
30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
3
The Beppu Ropeway offers a scenic 10-minute ride up Mt. Tsurumi, rising to an elevation of 1,375 meters. As you ascend, enjoy panoramic views of Beppu Bay, the cityscape, and even Mt. Yufu in the distance. At the summit, the air is refreshingly cool—perfect for escaping the summer heat. Once at the top, you can stroll along well-maintained walking paths, visit small shrines, and enjoy seasonal flowers such as cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant foliage in autumn. On clear days, views stretch as far as the Kuju Mountains. The ropeway is not just transportation—it’s a memorable highland experience.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included -
4
Lake Kinrinko is a small but enchanting lake located at the edge of Yufuin’s hot spring town. Its name means “Golden Scale Lake,” inspired by a legend of a sacred fish whose scales shimmered like gold in the sunlight. Early mornings are especially magical, when mist rises from the water due to natural hot springs flowing from the lake bottom. Surrounded by trees, shrines, and a riverside walking path, the area offers a peaceful escape from the busy shopping streets nearby. Visitors can stroll, relax on a bench, or enjoy a quiet coffee at lakeside cafés while admiring the ever-changing reflections on the water.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
Yunotsubo Kaido is the lively main street of Yufuin, lined with local shops, snack stands, and unique cafés. Visitors can enjoy strolling past handmade craft stores, hot spring souvenirs, and art galleries. The street is perfect for food lovers—you can try fresh croquettes, cheese tarts, dango, and matcha sweets while walking. If you’re feeling hungry, there are cozy restaurants offering local specialties like Yufu beef or chicken tempura. Stylish cafés and dessert shops are also scattered throughout, perfect for relaxing with a coffee or sweet treat. It’s a fun and flavorful way to experience the charm of Yufuin on foot.
45 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
No visit to Yufuin is complete without soaking in a traditional hot spring. After exploring the town, treat yourself to a peaceful bath at one of Yufuin’s many onsen. Popular spots like Shitan-yu offer rustic charm and open-air baths, while others like Baien and Musouen feature beautiful views of Mt. Yufu. Whether you choose a public bathhouse or a private onsen in a ryokan, the experience is perfect for easing tired feet and relaxing your mind. Ending your journey with a hot spring soak adds the perfect touch of serenity to a day full of discovery in this charming mountain town.
45 minutes • Admission ticket not included
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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