Beppu Hells Tour Cruise Shore Excursion

Overview

Experience one of Japan’s most extraordinary natural spectacles on our Beppu Hells Tour, a cruise-friendly excursion that takes you deep into the geothermal heart of Kyushu. Designed for travelers seeking unique photo opportunities and cultural insight, this gentle-paced journey combines dramatic nature with local legends. It is a must-see highlight for cruisers visiting Beppu who wish to witness the raw power of the earth in a beautifully manicured setting.

Your journey centers on the famous “Jigoku” or “Hells” of Beppu—a series of spectacular hot springs that are for viewing rather than bathing due to their extreme temperatures. You will encounter striking colors and unique geological formations, from bubbling gray mud that resembles the shaven heads of monks to steaming ponds of vivid, bloody red. These springs were created by Mother Nature over 1,000 years ago and continue to hiss and boil with an intensity that has captivated visitors for centuries.

Guided by a professional, licensed expert in a private vehicle, this 4-hour tour offers a seamless blend of sightseeing and relaxation. After marveling at the volcanic “Hells,” you will transition to a restorative experience at one of the city’s most prestigious hot spring resorts. With our Back-to-Ship Guarantee, you can fully immerse yourself in Beppu’s unique onsen culture, knowing that your return to the pier is perfectly synchronized with your ship’s departure.

Highlights

• Beppu Jigoku Circuit: Visit the most iconic “Hells,” including the iron-oxide-infused Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) and the bubbling mud of Oniishi Bozu Jigoku.
• Geothermal Delicacies: Sample unique “Hell-steamed” snacks, such as eggs and puddings cooked naturally by the volcanic steam rising from the earth.
• Hyotan Onsen: Relax at an award-winning, Michelin-starred hot spring facility featuring traditional sand baths, steam rooms, and therapeutic outdoor pools.
• Cultural Immersion: Learn the history and folklore behind the “Hells” from a licensed guide who will explain how these natural wonders shaped local Japanese life.

Cruise Information

This 4-hour tour is specifically timed to accommodate cruise passengers docking at the Port of Beppu, including those on the Diamond Princess, Celebrity Millennium, and Norwegian Spirit. We coordinate our departure directly with your ship’s arrival, meeting you at the terminal with a private guide and driver. Our team monitors port schedules in real-time to ensure a punctual return, providing a worry-free experience from the moment you disembark.

Full Itinerary

Upon pickup at the Beppu Port, your guide will lead you to the famous Jigoku Circuit. You will explore the most visually stunning “Hells,” where 100-degree fumarolic gases create a misty, otherworldly atmosphere. At Chinoike Jigoku, you will see a steaming lake of vivid red water, while at Oniishi Bozu, you will watch large bubbles of gray mud rise and burst, resembling a monk’s head. Throughout the circuit, you’ll enjoy the contrast of these boiling springs against traditional Japanese moss gardens and meticulously kept grounds.

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to sample local foods prepared using the earth’s natural heat. The locals use the volcanic steam to cook everything from eggs to special caramels, offering a literal taste of Beppu’s geothermal power. Your guide will explain how the mineral-rich waters have been used for both cooking and medicine for over a millennium.

The final portion of your trip is dedicated to authentic relaxation at Hyotan Onsen. Unlike the “Hells” which are for viewing, Hyotan offers fresh, mineral-rich water at the perfect temperature for bathing. You will have free time to enjoy the open-air baths or the famous “Yumitake” bamboo cooling system. Whether you choose a full soak or a relaxing foot bath, it is the ideal way to “wash over the dirt” and clear your mind before your driver transfers you back to the terminal for your ship’s departure.

Booking with Jasumo

To join one of our Upcoming Shared Tours for 2026 or to request a private vehicle for your family, please contact us via our Contact Us Form. Our travel consultants will verify your ship’s docking schedule to ensure a seamless experience.

Jasumo also operates as a Destination Management Company (DMC), providing end-to-end support and reliable local coordination for individual travelers and travel agencies.

As an exclusive benefit, every tour booked through Jasumo includes a free 10GB eSIM. This allows you to stay connected while exploring the steaming vents of the Jigoku circuit—use your data to share your photos of the “Blood Pond Hell” instantly or stay in touch with your travel companions without worrying about expensive roaming fees or public Wi-Fi.

Faqs

Why are they called the “Hells” of Beppu?

The name “Jigoku” (Hell) comes from ancient times when these areas were impossible to approach due to the boiling water, hot mud, and noxious gases. Today, they are viewed safely from behind fences, but the name remains to describe the dramatic, boiling nature of the springs.

Can we swim in the Bloody-red Hell?

No, the water in the Jigoku springs is typically near boiling point (around 100°C/212°F). These are purely for sightseeing and photography. For swimming and soaking, we include a visit to Hyotan Onsen, which uses the same mineral-rich water cooled to a safe and therapeutic temperature.

What should I wear for this tour?

We recommend comfortable walking shoes for the Jigoku Circuit paths. If you plan to bathe at Hyotan Onsen, you may bring a swimsuit for the gender-separated public baths (though traditional bathing is done without clothing). Towels are available for rent or purchase at the facility.

Is the Beppu Hells Tour suitable for children?

Yes, children often find the bubbling mud and brightly colored water fascinating. The tour also offers the chance to see how food is steamed over volcanic vents, which is a fun and educational experience for families.

How far are the “Hells” from the Beppu cruise pier?

The Jigoku Circuit is located approximately 15 to 20 minutes from the Beppu Port. This close proximity makes it an ideal destination for a half-day excursion, allowing for plenty of time to see the sights and enjoy a hot spring soak without rushing back to the ship.

Location