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Discovering Beppu Onsen with the Blue Hell Cozy Tour
Exploring Beppu’s legendary hot springs can feel overwhelming given its many sights and experiences. This private tour, priced at $91.05 per person, offers a personalized way to enjoy the town’s highlights without the rush or crowds, all guided by a knowledgeable local. It’s a three-hour journey designed to combine scenic beauty, culture, and some well-deserved relaxation—tailored to your interests.
What we love about this tour? It’s flexible and intimate, allowing you to customize your experience whether you’re into stunning natural sights, local food, or quiet moments in hot springs. The highlight, undoubtedly, is visiting Umi Jigoku, where the vivid blue waters seem almost surreal. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that admission fees are extra, so the overall cost is slightly higher when you add in the entrance tickets and optional transport.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic taste of Beppu’s famous hot springs at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re a solo explorer, part of a couple, or a family seeking a cultural deep dive, this tour offers a balanced mix of activities with plenty of personalized touches.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: The private nature allows customization based on your interests.
- Stunning Sights: Visiting Umi Jigoku and other scenic spots offers memorable visuals.
- Local Flavors & Relaxation: Includes steaming food, traditional baths, and optional private onsen.
- Authentic Insights: Guided by a knowledgeable local, enriching your understanding of Beppu.
- Extra Costs: Entrance and transportation fees are additional, so budget accordingly.
- Flexible Schedule: Starts at 10:00 or 14:00, fitting different travel plans.
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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary
Start at Umi Jigoku: The Iconic Blue Spring
The adventure begins at Umi Jigoku, the most famous of Beppu’s “Hells”—famous for its vivid blue waters that look almost otherworldly. Our guide explained that this spring’s color comes from mineral-rich silica and iron oxides, creating a vivid contrast against the Japanese garden setting. You’ll have about 30 minutes to take photos, wander, and soak in the scenery. The park also has a small café and souvenir shop, making it a perfect spot to relax and gather your first impressions.
Kannawa Steam Baths: Unique and Tasty Experiences
Next, you’ll visit Kannawa Onsen, a charming district filled with steam baths and historic buildings. Here, the focus is on steam food—a local specialty where ingredients are cooked using natural hot spring steam. Reviewers rave about the flavor enhancement that steaming provides—”the taste will be tripled,” as one visitor put it—making this a culinary highlight. You might get to try Jigoku Mushi, a traditional method of steaming vegetables, fish, or eggs, which adds a savory twist to your experience.
The steam baths themselves offer a rare chance to enjoy a world-class steam bath experience—something that very few travelers get to try outside Japan. While entrance fees are extra, many feel the value is worth it, especially if you’re eager to see how this method of relaxation and cleansing differs from typical baths.
Optional Private Onsen & Local Delights
If you’re interested, the tour can include a private onsen bath—a fantastic way to unwind after exploring. Some reviewers highlight the value of having a guide who can direct you to less crowded, more authentic baths rather than busy tourist spots. As one reviewer noted, their guide took them to a spring bath that wasn’t busy, making the experience both relaxing and special.
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The Final Stop: Umi Jigoku & Its Surroundings
The tour wraps up with another visit to Umi Jigoku, where the waters are not just beautiful but also surrounded by a Japanese garden and a souvenir shop. You’ll have a chance to enjoy a snack or coffee at the onsite café, soaking in the scenery and reflecting on the day’s sights. It’s a great opportunity for photos and to buy some unique souvenirs.
Why This Tour Stands Out
This private tour offers a deep dive into Beppu’s most iconic hot springs with the flexibility to customize your experience. The guide’s local knowledge shines through, especially when navigating lesser-known spots or adjusting based on your interests—be it food, scenic views, or relaxation. The tour’s length is perfect—long enough to cover key sights without feeling rushed.
The inclusion of steam food sampling and optional onsen baths adds a culinary and wellness dimension that many travelers find delightful. The tour’s reviews reflect high satisfaction. Cbakst, for example, appreciated the guide’s attentiveness and the chance to enjoy a less crowded spring bath. Manuel_M also highlighted the natural beauty of Beppu’s “hells,” describing it as a “very special natural phenomenon.”
Practicalities and Considerations
While the tour includes a knowledgeable guide and covers significant sights, it’s important to note that admission fees for the hot springs and steam baths are extra—adding around $10 per person. If transportation is needed, taxis can be arranged at an additional cost, making it easy to customize the pace and comfort.
The tour starts at either 10:00 or 14:00, offering some flexibility for your schedule. As a private experience, it’s great for couples or small groups, with the possibility to share if others book the same slot. If traveling solo, keep in mind that the fee might be for just your group, so it remains affordable and intimate.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible introduction to Beppu’s hot springs. It’s ideal for those who enjoy cultural authenticity, scenic beauty, and local food experiences. The guide’s attentiveness and tailored approach make it perfect for curious explorers and relaxation seekers alike.
If you prefer a structured, bus-style tour, this might not be for you. But for those wanting an authentic, intimate, and customizable journey, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for couples, small families, or solo travelers who appreciate personalized attention and meaningful insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s designed to be accessible and flexible.
Are snacks included?
No, snacks are not included, but you can enjoy local sweets and food at the stops like Umi Jigoku’s café.
How much are the entrance fees?
Admission to the hot springs and steam baths costs about $10 per person in total, payable on-site.
Can I request a specific start time?
The tour starts at either 10:00 or 14:00, and you can choose based on your schedule.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included but can be arranged at an extra cost if needed, such as taxis.
Would I have to share the tour with others?
It’s a private tour, but if others book the same slot, you might share the experience. Solo bookings are available at a 2-person rate.
Are there vegetarian or vegan food options?
Yes, vegan/vegetarian options are available, and you can request them in advance.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, providing a relaxed pace to enjoy each stop comfortably.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, some cash for entrance fees and snacks, and possibly a towel if you plan to enjoy baths.
Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families and small groups, especially those interested in cultural and natural sights.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Spring Beppu Onsen with Blue Hell Cozy Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and relaxing baths. Its flexibility allows you to tailor your day to your interests, making it perfect for those who want to explore Beppu at their own pace. The knowledgeable guide, stunning sights, and local culinary touches ensure an authentic and memorable visit.
While the additional fees for entrance and transport mean planning ahead, many find the overall experience to be well worth the extra investment. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate personalized service, beautiful natural sights, and a relaxed, immersive approach to Japanese hot spring culture.
If you’re after a genuine taste of Beppu’s unique hot springs and enjoy the idea of discovering hidden gems with a friendly local, this tour could be your perfect match. The glowing reviews and high ratings reflect its quality and the care taken to make each guest’s experience special—making it a worthwhile addition to any Beppu itinerary.
