4 DaysJapanCultureFood
Beppu
Your 4-day travel guide
Spring and autumn for ideal weather
Beppu•4D•Couple
Beppu, Japan
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:Couple
Steam, Serenity, and Savory Delights
Welcome to Beppu, where the earth itself seems to breathe. You'll know you've arrived when you catch that distinct mineral scent in the air, a mix of sulfur and sea salt that tells you this is no ordinary coastal town. Here, steam rises from drains, manhole covers, and even random patches of sidewalk, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that feels both ancient and alive. For couples seeking culture and culinary adventures, Beppu offers a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery. You'll soak in therapeutic hot springs, explore traditional craft workshops, and taste some of Japan's most unique regional dishes. The pace here is wonderfully slow, inviting you to linger over meals and enjoy quiet moments together. Get ready to experience a city where every day ends with warm water and good food.
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1
Hot Spring Culture and Traditional Crafts
Day 1 of your journey
Begin your Beppu adventure with the iconic Jigoku Meguri, a collection of seven spectacular hot springs too hot for bathing but perfect for viewing. Each hell has unique characteristics, from the cobalt blue waters of Umi Jigoku to the bubbling red mud of Chinoike Jigoku. You'll walk through beautifully landscaped gardens while learning about geothermal phenomena. The tour takes about 2-3 hours and includes all seven hells, with some featuring additional attractions like tropical gardens or foot baths. Morning visits are ideal to avoid crowds and see the steam rising dramatically in the cooler air.
Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour)
Why Visit
This is Beppu's signature attraction and offers the most dramatic display of the city's geothermal activity. As a couple, you'll enjoy strolling through the different themed gardens together, taking photos of the colorful pools, and learning about the science behind these natural wonders. The variety keeps the experience engaging, and the foot baths provide a nice break between viewing areas.
Purchase the combined ticket for all seven hells to save money. Address: 559-1 Kannawa, Beppu, Oita 874-0000. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a small towel for the foot baths scattered throughout the complex.
2
Culinary Exploration and Seaside Relaxation
Day 2 of your journey
3
Cultural Heritage and Scenic Views
Day 3 of your journey
4
Free Day and Local Exploration
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Beppu is famous for its eight 'hell' hot springs, but remember these are for viewing only, not bathing. For actual bathing, visit one of the many public or private onsens.
Public transportation in Beppu is reliable with buses connecting major attractions. Consider purchasing a one-day bus pass if planning multiple stops.
Many onsens have separate bathing areas for men and women. Tattoos may need to be covered at some public facilities, though policies are gradually changing.
Try jigoku mushi (hell steaming) cuisine where food is cooked using natural steam from hot springs. It's a unique culinary experience specific to this region.
Beppu is generally safe, but be cautious around hot spring areas where water can be scalding. Stay on marked paths at geothermal sites.
Cash is still widely used in smaller establishments, though credit cards are accepted at most hotels and larger restaurants.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases. While some tourist areas have English signage, locals appreciate simple greetings like 'konnichiwa' (hello) and 'arigato' (thank you).
If staying at a traditional ryokan, familiarize yourself with onsen etiquette: wash thoroughly before entering baths, don't wear swimsuits, and keep towels out of the water.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
Beppu is enjoyable year-round due to its hot springs, but the best times are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring brings mild temperatures and cherry blossoms, perfect for outdoor exploration. Autumn offers comfortable weather and beautiful foliage, especially in the surrounding mountains. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, though the sea provides some relief and it's less crowded. Winter (December to February) is cool but pleasant, with onsens being particularly inviting in colder weather. The city sees fewer tourists in winter and summer, which can mean better deals and fewer crowds at attractions.
Local Insights & Tips
Beppu's culture revolves around its hot springs, which are integrated into daily life in ways you might not expect. Locals use the geothermal heat for cooking, agriculture, and even heating sidewalks in winter. The city has a relaxed, therapeutic atmosphere where people come to unwind and heal. You'll notice that many residents visit onsens regularly, treating them as social spaces as much as bathing facilities. Beppu is less formal than some Japanese cities, with a friendly, welcoming vibe. When visiting onsens, remember that they're considered sacred spaces for purification, so maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor. The city has a strong craft tradition, particularly in bamboo work and pottery, reflecting its connection to natural materials. Food culture emphasizes local ingredients, with seafood from Beppu Bay and vegetables grown using geothermal heat.