In a country brimming with volcanic activity, you’ll find hot springs everywhere you go. But these hot springs in the Kyushu city of Beppu are not for the faint-hearted Japan traveler. The eight “hells,” as they have been appropriately named, are unique, even for Japan: the temperatures of these steaming pools rise well above comfortable bathing levels, so this is not the place to reap the benefits. of silky skin. A visit to these hot springs is not for bathing, but for sightseeing only. It’s still eight hells of a view that you won’t see anywhere else.

The Eight Hells (åœ°ç „ Jigoku) of Beppu:

1. Umi-Jigoku (Sea Hell)
A beautiful steamy blue pond makes for a picturesque site. Don’t miss the greenhouse in this hellhole where water lilies big enough to hold small children are grown (over water!).

2. Oniishibozu-Jigoku (Shorn Monk Head Hell)
This hell offers numerous puddles of boiling gray mud that bubble up to resemble the shaven head of a monk. It is a unique show.

3. Yama-Jigoku (Hell Mountain)
A cross between a mini zoo and a hot spring, this hellhole has several animals, including a hippo, an elephant, and some monkeys (among other animals) that supposedly enjoy dwelling around the hot spring. They are caged in confined spaces away from the small, shallow hot spring pools. This is probably one of the less impressive hells.

4. Kamado-Jigoku (Hell Furnace)
A must-see among the eight, this hellhole offers a variety of different steamy pools that come in blue, gray, and more. This hell’s snack bar offers some interesting local delicacies.

5. Oniyama-Jigoku (Hell of Demon Mountain)
Many crocodiles have found their home in this hell. Enough talk.

6. Shiraike-Jigoku (White Pool of Hell)
This serene garden is home to a beautiful white pool of extremely hot water. It is picturesque and quiet.

7. Chinoike-Jigoku (Hell of the Pool of Blood)
Although it is difficult to reach, it is worth visiting this hell to see its impressive blood-colored pond.

8. Tatsumaki-Jigoku (Hell Geyser)
Neighbor of the seventh hell, this geyser is as impressive as the old faithful. It consists of a tall water fountain that now has an arena built around it for tourists to sit and watch.

The hells in Beppu are open from 8 am to 5 pm and you can get a combo ticket for all the hells for ï¿¥2,000, while each separate hell costs ï¿¥400 to enter. The first six hells are within walking distance of each other, but you’ll have to get in a car, bus, or taxi to see the last two hells. If Kyushu is part of your Japan travel itinerary, this would be a great day trip.