Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) is one of the tourist hells in the Kannawa Onsen area of Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, and is a representative spot on the Beppu Hell Tour. As its name suggests, it is characterized by a large, deep cobalt blue pool of hot water that evokes the sea, and the sight of the hot water gushing out, the rising steam, and the unique color make a strong impression. It has been known as a tourist destination since the Meiji period, and the surrounding area is home to greenhouses displaying tropical plants, souvenir shops, and restaurants that use hell steaming.
Highlights
- A vibrant blue hot spring pool: A large, pond-like hot spring quietly bubbles up, and depending on the lighting conditions, the deep indigo color it appears is a breathtaking sight.
- Scenery of steam and fumaroles: Due to the high temperature, steam is constantly rising, and the scenery changes depending on the season and time of day.
- Greenhouse and plant exhibits: The geothermal greenhouse often houses tropical plants and seasonal flowers, making it a popular photo spot.
- Jigokumushi Cuisine and Specialties: You can enjoy local steamed dishes such as hot spring eggs and puddings steamed in the hot springs (shop and food corner within the facility).
- Starting point for the Beppu Hell Tour: There are other hells in the surrounding area (Blood Pond Hell, Oniishi Bozu Hell, etc.), so you can enjoy walking around them.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Beppu Station (nearest major station).
- Bus: Take a local bus such as Kamenoi Bus from Beppu Station heading towards Kannawa (Hell Tour). The journey takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes (depending on traffic conditions).
- Taxi: Approximately 10-20 minutes by taxi from Beppu Station (varies depending on the time of day).
- By car: Approximately 15-20 minutes on a local road from Beppu IC on the Oita Expressway. Parking is available (limited spaces).
- Walking: It is not very practical to walk from the center of Beppu, but it is possible to get around on foot from Kannawa Onsen town.
*Please check the latest timetables and routes with the bus company or official tourist information in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Visit to Umi Jigoku only: Approximately 30 to 45 minutes (including viewing the pond, strolling around the greenhouse, souvenir shopping, and snacks).
- Beppu Hell Tour (including other hells): Approximately 1.5 to 3 hours (depending on the number of hells visited).
- If you want to enjoy a leisurely meal and take photos, it's a good idea to allow around an hour.
Nearby spots
- Beppu Hell Tour spots such as Blood Pond Hell, Oniishi Bozu Hell, and Kamado Hell (scattered around Umi Jigoku).
- Kannawa Onsen Town: A strolling area lined with foot baths, hot spring resorts, and local restaurants.
- Jigokumushi Kobo: A facility where you can experience and purchase geothermal steamed dishes (several in the Kannawa area).
- Takegawara Onsen: Beppu's historic public bath (on the Beppu city side).
- Beppu Ropeway (Tsurumi-dake): A potential tourist spot to enjoy the scenery.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Caution: The hot spring is extremely hot, so please follow the instructions and do not touch the pond or go near it. Do not leave children unattended.
- Photography: You are allowed to take photos of the scenery, but please be considerate to other visitors and do not enter designated areas or restricted areas.
- Crowds: Golden Week, summer vacation, New Year's, and weekends with consecutive holidays are extremely crowded. If you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend going early on a weekday.
- Smell: There may be a strong sulfur smell that is unique to hot springs. Please be careful if you are sensitive to smells.
- Barrier-free access: There are slopes and stairs on the premises, so it may be difficult to move around in wheelchairs or with strollers. It is best to inquire with the facility in advance.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking outdoors a lot. It can get cold depending on the season, so be sure to dress warmly.
- Business Information: Opening hours, admission fees, and closing days may change, so please check the official website or tourist information for the latest information before visiting.
Umi Jigoku is one of the attractions that symbolizes Beppu's geothermal culture, and is a spot where you can enjoy photogenic scenery and local cuisine. Combining your visit with a tour of the nearby hells will make for an even more fulfilling trip.
