Monkey Park and Hot Spring Hells of Beppu Tour Cruise Shore Excursion

Overview

Discover the playful charm and relaxing spirit of Beppu on this 4-hour shore excursion designed for cruise travelers seeking nature and rejuvenation in a short timeframe. This tour provides a seamless introduction to the unique character of Oita Prefecture, where volcanic activity creates both lush habitats for wildlife and therapeutic waters for weary travelers. It is a perfect choice for those who want to experience Japan’s famous macaques and its legendary hot spring culture without a full-day commitment.

Your journey begins at the Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden, a renowned reserve where over a thousand wild Japanese monkeys roam freely across the mountainside. Unlike a traditional zoo, here you are a guest in their territory, witnessing their complex social structures and playful antics up close. The experience is balanced by a visit to Hyotan Onsen, an award-winning thermal facility that has earned a Michelin Green Guide star for its beauty and tradition.

Guided by a professional, licensed expert in a private vehicle, you will navigate Beppu’s highlights with ease. Whether you are laughing at the monkeys’ acrobatics or soaking in a restorative mineral bath, this tour captures the essence of Beppu’s “hells” and healing waters. With our Back-to-Ship Guarantee, you can relax and recharge knowing your return to the pier is perfectly timed for your ship’s departure.

Highlights

• Takasakiyama Monkey Park: Encounter over 1,000 wild Japanese macaques in a natural mountain setting, observing their social behaviors and feeding sessions at close range.
• Hyotan Onsen: Relax at a Michelin-starred hot spring facility featuring traditional sand baths, steam rooms, and outdoor baths set in a beautiful Japanese garden.
• Wildlife Education: Learn about the hierarchy and fascinating daily routines of the “Snow Monkey” cousins from a specialized local guide.
• Authentic Onsen Culture: Experience the restorative properties of Beppu’s thermal waters, renowned throughout Japan for their healing minerals and skin-softening benefits.

Cruise Information

This 4-hour excursion is meticulously synchronized with the docking schedules of the Norwegian Spirit and other major cruise lines at the Port of Beppu. We coordinate our departure and return specifically to match your ship’s window at the pier. Our team monitors port operations in real-time to ensure your guide is waiting at the terminal and that you return to the ship at least one hour before the “all aboard” time.

Full Itinerary

Upon your ship’s arrival at Beppu Port, your English-speaking guide will warmly welcome you at the terminal. Your first stop is the Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden. Located at the foot of Mount Takasaki, this park is unique because the monkeys are truly wild; they descend from the mountains to the feeding grounds daily. You can choose to take a short, scenic monorail ride or a gentle walk up to the main observation area, where your guide will point out the “alpha” leaders and explain the monkeys’ playful interactions.

Next, you will travel to the Kannawa district to visit Hyotan Onsen. This historic facility is famous for its “Yumitake” bamboo cooling system, which brings the boiling spring water down to a comfortable temperature without dilution. You will have time to experience a variety of baths, including the waterfall baths and the outdoor rock pools. For those who prefer not to fully submerge, a relaxing foot bath (ashiyu) is also available.

After your wellness session, you will enjoy a short drive back through the “steaming” streets of Beppu, where volcanic steam vents can be seen rising from the city’s drainage pipes and rooftops. Your driver will ensure a prompt return to the cruise terminal, leaving you feeling refreshed and invigorated for your evening on the ship.

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.

Additionally, every booking through Jasumo includes a complimentary 10GB eSIM. This allows you to stay connected across Japan—from the monkey-filled slopes of Takasakiyama to the tranquil gardens of Hyotan Onsen—enabling you to share your wildlife photos and stay in touch with family without worrying about finding Wi-Fi or paying roaming fees.

Faqs

How close can I get to the monkeys at Takasakiyama?

The monkeys are wild but very accustomed to humans. They often walk right past visitors on the paths. While you can get quite close for photos, your guide will instruct you on safety rules, such as not making direct eye contact or trying to touch them, to ensure a respectful encounter.

Do I need to bring my own towel to Hyotan Onsen?

While you can bring a towel from your ship, Hyotan Onsen offers towel rentals and sales for a small fee. Your guide will assist you with the check-in process and explain the traditional Japanese bathing etiquette to ensure you feel comfortable and relaxed.

Is the monkey park suitable for people with mobility issues?

Yes, the park is accessible. While there is a sloped walk to the main area, a small monorail (the “Saruko-rail”) is available for a small fee to take guests directly to the monkey viewing area, making it very friendly for seniors and those with limited mobility.

What makes Hyotan Onsen different from other hot springs?

Hyotan Onsen is the only hot spring in Japan to have been awarded three stars by the Michelin Green Guide for eight consecutive years. It is famous for its traditional atmosphere, high-quality water, and unique “sand baths” where you are buried in naturally heated volcanic sand.

How far is the monkey park from the Beppu cruise pier?

The Takasakiyama Monkey Park is located approximately 10 to 15 minutes from the Beppu Port. This short transit time makes it an ideal destination for a 4-hour half-day tour, allowing you to maximize your time with the animals and at the hot springs.

Location