Umi Jigoku: Beppu's Azure Wonder
Discover Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) in Beppu: a stunning cobalt blue hot spring, part of the famed "Seven Hells," offering unique geothermal sights.
Umi Jigoku, or "Sea Hell," is a captivating hot spring located in Beppu, Oita Prefecture, Japan. It is one of the most iconic of Beppu's "Seven Hells" (Jigoku Meguri), a collection of unique geothermal hot springs appreciated for viewing rather than bathing. The name "hell" comes from the ancient perception of these areas with gushing hot water and steam as frightening. Umi Jigoku was created approximately 1,200 years ago by an eruption of Mount Tsurumi. The spring's water is a mesmerizing cobalt blue, a result of high concentrations of iron sulfate. Although the water appears inviting, it is a scalding 98°C (208°F), far too hot for bathing. The main pond reaches a depth of 200 meters. Visitors can explore the Umi Jigoku park, which features a serene Japanese garden with a pond, smaller orange-colored hot springs, and a shop offering local souvenirs and snacks. A popular treat is the "Hell Steamed Pudding," cooked using the hot spring's steam. There is also a free foot bath where visitors can relax and enjoy the warmth of the spring water. Umi Jigoku also cultivates giant Amazonian water lilies, Victoria amazonica, whose leaves can grow large enough to support the weight of a small child.
Local tips
- Purchase a Jigoku Onsen Ticket if you plan to visit at least 5 of the seven hells to save on admission costs.
- Bring a towel to dry your feet after enjoying the free foot bath.
- Try the "Hell Steamed Pudding," a local specialty cooked using the hot spring's steam.
- Visit between August and early November to see the giant water lilies in bloom.
A brief summary to Umi Jigoku
- 559-1 Kannawa, Beppu, Kannawa, Oita, 874-0045, JP
- +81977-66-0121
Getting There
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Bus
From JR Beppu Station, take bus number 2, 5, 9, 24, or 41 and get off at the Umijigoku-mae bus stop, which is right across the street from the entrance. The bus ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes. The fare is around ¥500. Alternatively, take bus number 5 or 7 and get off at the Kannawa bus terminal, from where you can walk to Umi Jigoku. A single entry to Umi Jigoku costs ¥400 per adult. A pass for all seven hells costs ¥2000.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available from Beppu Station. The taxi ride to Umi Jigoku takes approximately 7 minutes and costs between ¥2,300 and ¥2,800.
