TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Takegawara Onsen is one of the most famous public baths in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, and is a tourist attraction known for its retro wooden architecture and "sand bath." Continuing the tradition of hot spring culture that dates back to the Meiji period, the building retains its traditional appearance and atmosphere, making it popular with tourists and locals alike. The bathhouse has separate indoor baths for men and women, and the sand bath, available for an additional fee, offers a unique therapeutic and relaxing experience of being buried in sand heated by hot spring water.
Highlights
- Retro wooden building: The exterior retains a Showa-era atmosphere and is a great photo spot. The entrance, noren curtains, tiles, and other features give off the feel of a good old hot spring town.
- Experience the hot spring as a public bath: A casual public bath frequented by locals. You can experience the hot spring water quality (with its unique local benefits) containing sulfur and salts up close.
- Sand bath: An experience where you are covered in warm sand by an attendant. It is popular with tourists as it promotes blood circulation and relieves fatigue (see estimate for required time, including time spent buried in sand and time spent changing clothes).
- Sightseeing integrated with a stroll around the hot spring town: Souvenir shops and retro restaurants are scattered around the area, allowing you to fully enjoy the hot spring atmosphere.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Beppu Station (JR Kyushu) - Walkable, approximately 10-15 minutes on foot (depending on walking speed).
- Bus: From Beppu Station, you can take a local bus or a sightseeing bus to a bus stop such as "Takegawara Onsen Mae." The travel time depends on traffic conditions, but you will usually arrive in a short time.
- By car: Approximately 15 minutes by car from Beppu IC (depending on traffic). Paid parking is available in the area (limited space available, so may be full).
- From the airport: You can access Beppu city from Oita Airport by bus (airport limousine or express bus). Get off at Beppu Station and walk or change to a bus.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Public bath only: 30-60 minutes (including changing clothes and resting)
- If you are using the sand bath: The bathing time itself is short (about 10 to 15 minutes), but it is safe to plan for about 30 to 60 minutes in total, including check-in, changing clothes, and resting before and after the sand bath.
- Sightseeing including strolling around the area: Approximately 1-2 hours. If you want to take your time taking photos and visiting the surrounding shops, it's best to allow about half a day.
Nearby spots
- Hell Tour (Beppu's Hot Spring Hells) - Popular tourist spots in Beppu, including Sea Hell and Blood Pond Hell (accessible by car or bus).
- Beppu Tower and Beppu Park — A great spot for strolling around the city.
- Kannawa Onsen Town - An area where you can experience steam baths and hell steam cooking.
- Shopping districts and souvenir shops — You can enjoy local souvenirs, snacks, coffee shops, and more in the shopping district around Takegawara Onsen.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: During the tourist season (long weekends, summer holidays, and weekends), the baths tend to get crowded, and you may have to wait, especially at the Sand Bath. It's best to visit in the early morning or evening, when the baths are less crowded.
- Bathing etiquette: As this is a public bath, please wash your body with soap before entering the bathtub, refrain from shouting or taking photos in the bath, and observe general hot spring etiquette.
- Regarding tattoos: Some facilities may refuse you entry to the baths. If you have a noticeable tattoo, please check in advance, or check whether you can use stickers or other coverings to cover up your tattoo.
- Sand bath precautions: Because the sand bath warms the body extremely, pregnant women, those with high blood pressure, heart disease, or poor health should avoid using the bath or consult a doctor. Don't forget to drink plenty of fluids before and after using the bath.
- What to wear and what to bring: You may need to bring your own towels or rent them locally (for a fee). The changing rooms can get crowded, so please be careful to keep your valuables safe.
- Barrier-free access: The building has a retro design, so there may be steps and narrow passageways. It is best to inquire in advance about wheelchair access.
Takegawara Onsen is a must-see spot for tourists visiting Beppu, known as a "casual, historic public bathhouse." Please check official information and local guides before visiting to ensure a comfortable hot spring experience.
