Beppu’s Hells

Beppu is known for its “hells”. These “hells” aren’t as scary as they sound as they’re just eight of the most touristy hot springs of Beppu. As mentioned in my previous post, I didn’t get to visit all 8 of the “hells” but something is better than nothing, right?

Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell)

My most favorite “hell” or “jigoku” would have to be the blood pond hell (Chinoike Jigoku). From the color of the pond to the forest in the background, I found this hell to be rather iconic. There happened to also be a foot bath on the grounds but I didn’t bother to experience it. (I figured it’d be a hassle to put my socks back on once my feet were wet.)

Another thing I liked about the blood pond hell was their gift shop. I can’t tell you how many cute things I saw that I wanted but ended up not buying. I severely regret not buying the cute “oni” (devil) plushes. I don’t know what kept me from making the purchase. Was it the price or was it because I thought I’d see more merchandise for cheaper at a different hell? Regardless of the reason, know that if you want something from this gift shop, it’s best to buy it since the other hell’s gift shop might not have whatever you want in stock. I hate to confess this but a part of me wanted to revisit Beppu again just to purchase the plush. Lol

Tatsumaki Jigoku (Spout Hell)

My least favorite hell would have to be the spout hell (Tatsumaki Jigoku). I didn’t like this hell much because it came off super touristy. I know the hells are tourist attractions but nothing screams touristy as much as bleachers for visitors to sit on and exact timings for when the spouting would occur. Meh. The gift shop was also small. And they didn’t carry any of those cute “oni” plushies. Obviously, it was here that I realized I should have just bought the plush at the blood pond hell. Oh well! :/

While their gift shop had me disappointed, I can happily say that it at least is a gift shop that seems to be open for everyone. In other words, I don’t think it’s necessary for you to buy a spout hell admission fee should you just want to buy souvenirs. I found this to be a pleasant surprise as Japan’s attractions tend to require an admission fee before you can gain access to their gift shop.

Oniishibozu Jigoku (Shaven Head Hell)

The mud bubbles hell (Oniishibozu Jigoku) was nice to see. Supposedly, there’s a smell around this hell but it’s really not all that noticeable nor is it bothersome. Nearby, there’s a shrine and food cooked from the hot springs for sale.

And that was all of the hells I visited in Beppu. Since the hells close at 5pm, it’s best to get here early, especially if you want to see all 8 of Beppu’s hells. The good thing about getting here early is that you can take advantage of their discounted hell pass from the getgo. Keep in mind that the blood pond hell and spout hell are near each other but further away from the other hells.