Shiraike Jigoku — Attraction in Beppu

Touristy and gimmicky but still pretty fun and isn’t this kinda the main reason you came to Beppu?

Each hell has its ‘thing’, whether it be crocodiles (why??), blood red water, sludgey mud, geysers, etc.

You can pay for the individual tickets to the hells (¥400) or get a pass that covers entry to all 7 (¥2000). You’ll need to take a bus from Beppu Station which was around ¥300 and approx 30-40mins. They don’t come that often but the timetable is quite clear and the signage is obvious as well.

5 of the hells are in the same area. This is the main site where there are lots of shops, onsen, foot onsen, food, etc. I encourage you to go to one of the stalls up from the bus stop on the street - an elderly couple use the steam from the onsen to steam eggs, corn, and sweet potato for a reasonable price (more reasonable than the restaurants and tourist shops!). And it’s tasty.

The other 2 hells are about 30mins walk away. I believe there is a bus but it’s pretty irregular so it was quicker for us to walk. There’s not much else to do at that site so you can then hop on a bus...

My partner and I visited as part of the '7 Hells of Beppu' package and while the hot spring was stunning (perhaps one of my favourites of the 7), the incredibly depressing aquarium made this a low point of the day. There was absolutely no regard for the welfare of the fish, with the tanks being made completely of concrete and not a single plant present throughout the whole aquarium. Most of the tanks were way too small for the fish inside them, especially the two arapaima gigas; one of which was in a tank only around twice its size, and the other seemed to be incredibly ill. The aquarium is nothing more than animal exploitation for profit and added tourism rather than genuine education and conservation that aquariums...

Shiraike Jigoku is one of the more serene "hells" in Beppu, known for its striking white, milky waters. The ethereal color of the spring creates a calm, almost otherworldly atmosphere, making it a peaceful stop in the midst of the "hell tour." The surrounding gardens are beautifully maintained, adding to the tranquil experience. It’s less about the heat and more about the beauty, offering a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy a quieter, more reflective side of Beppu’s geothermal wonders. If you're looking to escape the crowds while still experiencing the "hells," Shiraike Jigoku is a serene,...