Kankaiji Onsen Beppu
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Kankaiji Onsen Beppu

4.6
·491k reviews·Beppu, Japan

Kankaiji Onsen in Beppu offers a serene escape with therapeutic hot springs and traditional ryokan stays, complemented by the dramatic 'Hell Tour' sig...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
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Kankaiji Onsen Beppu

Kankaiji Onsen Beppu

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Kankaiji Onsen in Beppu offers a serene escape with therapeutic hot springs and traditional ryokan stays, complemented by the dramatic 'Hell Tour' sights.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Immerse yourself in Beppu's therapeutic hot springs and witness the otherworldly 'Hell Tour' sights!"

Vertical photo
TIP

♨️ Respect Onsen Etiquette

Wash thoroughly before entering baths. No swimsuits allowed. Towels are for drying, not bathing.

🎟️ Book Jigoku Meguri Tickets

Purchase tickets for the 'Hell Tour' in advance to skip lines and maximize your sightseeing time.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kankaiji Onsen's Therapeutic Waters

Kankaiji Onsen's Therapeutic Waters

Kankaiji Onsen District

Soak in mineral-rich hot springs renowned for their healing properties. A truly rejuvenating experience.

Instagram
Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour)

Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour)

Various locations across Beppu

Witness the dramatic, colorful hot springs – from steaming blue seas to bubbling mud. A visual spectacle!

TikTok
Traditional Ryokan Stay

Traditional Ryokan Stay

Kankaiji Onsen and surrounding areas

Experience authentic Japanese hospitality with a stay in a traditional inn, complete with onsen baths.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Onsen Culture

Beppu is Japan's hot spring capital, boasting eight distinct onsen areas. Kankaiji Onsen is one of them, known for its therapeutic waters. Immerse yourself in the local bathing culture, but remember onsen etiquette is key! TikTok

Plan Your 'Hell Tour'

While Kankaiji Onsen offers relaxation, don't miss the famous Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) in Beppu. These natural hot springs are too hot for bathing but offer spectacular, colorful sights. Book tickets in advance to save time. TikTok

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxing
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Destination of the Week: Oita, Japan 🇯🇵 1. Begin your journey in Beppu, the hot spring capital of Japan, easily reached from Oita Airport. Local buses and taxis make it simple to explore every onsen district. 2. Witness the otherworldly Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) - from the cobalt-blue Umi Jigoku to the crimson Chinoike Jigoku and the bubbling mud pools of Oniishibozu Jigoku. These geothermal wond...
@skyscanner
84.1K likes • 3.2M views

♨️ Respect Onsen Etiquette

Wash thoroughly before entering baths. No swimsuits allowed. Towels are for drying, not bathing. Reddit

🎟️ Book Jigoku Meguri Tickets

Purchase tickets for the 'Hell Tour' in advance to skip lines and maximize your sightseeing time. TikTok

💦สงกรานต์ที่ญี่ปุ่นก็คนเยอะมากกกก🇯🇵🇹🇭 #สงกรานต์ #songkran #Oita #beppu #เที่ยวญี่ปุ่น #unseen
@kenji_mango
66.7K likes • 713.4K views
♨️ Beppu is one of the most famous hot spring resorts in Japan. The city is blessed by as many as eight different springs, named Beppu Onsen, Kannawa Onsen, Myoban Onsen, Kankaiji Onsen, Hamawaki Onsen, Kamegawa Onsen, Horita Onsen and Shibaseki Onsen, each featuring public baths and ryokan with bathing facilities. Together they produce more hot spring water than any other onsen resort in the coun...
wanderfulanya
35 likes • 1.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore On Foot

Many onsen areas are walkable. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the different hot spring sites. TikTok

📱 Download a Translation App

While some signs have English, a translation app can be helpful for menus and local interactions. Reddit

Trả lời @thinhbg_95 別府八湯温泉まつり (Beppu Onsen Festival) cre: 藤澤佑樹 (yukifujisawa2) #別府八湯温泉まつり #別府温泉まつり #別府温泉 #温泉県おおいた♨️ #別府 #マッチョ #筋肉 #お神輿 #j_boys #japanboy #japanese #trainhatban
@j_boys_tt
20.6K likes • 160.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

♨️ Respect Onsen Etiquette

Wash thoroughly before entering baths. No swimsuits allowed. Towels are for drying, not bathing. Reddit

🎟️ Book Jigoku Meguri Tickets

Purchase tickets for the 'Hell Tour' in advance to skip lines and maximize your sightseeing time. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore On Foot

Many onsen areas are walkable. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the different hot spring sites. TikTok

📱 Download a Translation App

While some signs have English, a translation app can be helpful for menus and local interactions. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the deeply relaxing and therapeutic qualities of Kankaiji Onsen's hot springs, often praising the traditional ryokan experiences and the unique Jigoku Meguri sights. While some find the onsen etiquette a bit daunting, most appreciate the authentic cultural immersion. TikTokInstagram

What People Like

Soothing hot springs
Traditional ryokan stays
Unique 'Hell Tour' sights

What People Dislike

Onsen etiquette confusion
Crowded during peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kankaiji Onsen is located in Beppu, Oita Prefecture. You can fly into Oita Airport and then take a bus or taxi to Beppu. From Beppu Station, local buses and taxis are readily available to reach Kankaiji Onsen and other onsen districts. TikTok

Yes, Beppu has an excellent public transportation system. Local buses connect the various onsen districts, making it easy to hop between them. Taxis are also available. TikTok

For the Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour), a combination of local buses and walking is recommended. Comfortable shoes are essential as you'll be doing a lot of walking between the different 'hells'. TikTok

Yes, you can take a Shinkansen (bullet train) from Fukuoka to Oita Station, and then transfer to a local train or bus to Beppu. The journey is scenic and efficient. Reddit

Consider purchasing a Beppu Onsen Day Pass or a local bus day pass if you plan on visiting multiple attractions and onsen facilities within a day. This can save you money. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Kankaiji Onsen district itself is generally free, but individual ryokan and public bathhouses will have their own admission fees for bathing. Instagram

The cost for the Jigoku Meguri varies depending on how many 'hells' you visit. A combined ticket for all major 'hells' is usually the most economical option. Check the official Beppu tourism website for current pricing. TikTok

Sometimes there are package deals or discounts available, especially if you purchase tickets for multiple attractions. It's worth checking for any ongoing promotions. Reddit

Yes, booking Jigoku Meguri tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to avoid long queues. TikTok

Opening hours vary significantly between ryokan and public baths. Many public baths open in the morning and close in the evening. It's best to check the specific facility's hours before visiting. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Before entering the bath, you must wash your body thoroughly at the provided washing stations. Do not wear swimsuits in the onsen. Towels are for drying off after bathing, not for use in the water. Reddit

Beppu is famous for its diverse hot springs, including chloride springs, sulfur springs, and carbonic acid springs, each offering unique therapeutic benefits. Kankaiji Onsen is known for its chloride and sulfate springs. Instagram

No, the hot springs on the Jigoku Meguri are far too hot for bathing and are purely for sightseeing. They are a natural phenomenon showcasing the geothermal activity of the region. TikTok

Typically, you only need yourself! Most onsen provide towels, soap, and shampoo. Some may offer rental yukata (robes). Bringing a small towel for washing is common. Reddit

Historically, many onsen prohibited tattoos due to associations with organized crime. However, some modern onsen and private baths are becoming more tattoo-friendly. It's best to check with the specific facility beforehand. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Be sure to try local seafood, especially Jigoku Mushi (hot spring steamed) dishes, which are cooked using the steam from the hot springs. Also, look for regional specialties like Bungo beef. Reddit

Yes, the Kankaiji Onsen area and the wider Beppu city offer a range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale ryotei (traditional Japanese restaurants). Many ryokan also offer exquisite dining experiences. Reddit

Finding strictly vegetarian or vegan options can be challenging in traditional Japanese cuisine, which often uses dashi (fish stock). However, many restaurants are becoming more accommodating. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly. Reddit

Jigoku Mushi Ryori is a unique Beppu culinary experience where food is steamed using the natural geothermal steam from the hot springs. It's a healthy and flavorful way to enjoy local ingredients. Reddit

Beppu Kankaiji Onsen Ryotei Matsubaya is a renowned establishment offering traditional Japanese cuisine, often featuring seasonal ingredients and exquisite presentation. It's a great place to experience fine dining. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the serene atmosphere of the onsen town, the steam rising from the hot springs, and the traditional architecture of the ryokan. The views from higher vantage points can be stunning. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed at the Jigoku Meguri sites. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash where it might be disruptive. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. Golden hour can be particularly magical. Instagram

Absolutely not. Photography is strictly prohibited inside onsen bathing areas for privacy reasons. Always respect the rules and other bathers. Reddit

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the dramatic Jigoku Meguri sights. A tripod might be helpful for low-light shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the onsen experience itself might be more for adults, Beppu offers family-friendly attractions. The Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour) is a fascinating visual spectacle that can captivate children with its colorful and steaming landscapes. TikTok Some onsen facilities may have family baths or private rooms that offer more privacy and comfort for families. Reddit Look for hotels or ryokan that explicitly cater to families, offering amenities like children's meals or play areas. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Beppu can be enjoyed on a budget by utilizing public transportation and focusing on the free aspects of the onsen culture. While staying in a luxury ryokan can be expensive, many public bathhouses offer affordable access to therapeutic waters. Reddit The Jigoku Meguri can be done by purchasing individual tickets for the 'hells' you most want to see, rather than a full pass. TikTok Look for local eateries and convenience stores for affordable and delicious meals. Reddit

💖 Couples Retreat

Kankaiji Onsen is an ideal destination for a romantic getaway. Opt for a stay at a ryokan with private onsen baths for an intimate and luxurious experience. Instagram Enjoying a soak together under the stars or during a misty morning can be incredibly romantic. Instagram Many ryokan offer special dining packages for couples, featuring exquisite kaiseki meals. Reddit The serene atmosphere of the onsen town also lends itself to peaceful strolls and shared relaxation. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Onsen Bathing

Kankaiji Onsen, like other Beppu hot springs, offers a deeply ingrained cultural experience. The therapeutic waters, rich in minerals, are believed to alleviate various ailments. Before you dip in, remember the cardinal rule: wash thoroughly at the designated washing stations. This ensures cleanliness for everyone. Reddit Avoid wearing swimsuits; onsen are traditionally enjoyed au naturel. Reddit The experience is about relaxation and purification, so embrace the quiet and the warmth. Instagram

Many visitors opt to stay in a ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, which often includes private or public onsen access. This allows for a more immersive experience, often paired with exquisite kaiseki (multi-course) meals. Instagram Beppu boasts eight distinct onsen areas, each with its own character and water composition, making it a true hot spring paradise. Instagram

Exploring Beppu's 'Hells'

The Jigoku Meguri, or 'Hell Tour,' is a must-do in Beppu, and Kankaiji Onsen visitors often combine it with their relaxation. These are not bathing spots but rather natural hot springs so intensely hot and visually striking that they've earned their 'hellish' names. TikTok You'll encounter a spectrum of colors and phenomena, from the vibrant blue of Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) to the bubbling mud of Oniyama Jigoku (Mountain Hell). TikTok

Each 'hell' offers a unique spectacle. For instance, the Umi Jigoku is known for its striking turquoise water and the steam that rises from it, creating an ethereal atmosphere. TikTok The Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) is famous for its deep red, iron-rich waters. TikTok Exploring these sites is a visual feast and a testament to the powerful geothermal forces at play beneath Beppu. TikTok

Culinary Delights of Beppu

Beyond the soothing waters, Beppu offers a unique culinary scene, with Jigoku Mushi Ryori (hot spring steamed cuisine) being a standout. This method uses the natural geothermal steam to cook food, resulting in incredibly tender and flavorful dishes. Reddit Imagine fresh seafood, local vegetables, and even eggs being perfectly steamed right before your eyes. Reddit

For a more refined dining experience, consider a ryotei like Beppu Kankaiji Onsen Ryotei Matsubaya. These establishments offer traditional Japanese multi-course meals (kaiseki) that are as much a feast for the eyes as they are for the palate. Reddit Expect seasonal ingredients, meticulous preparation, and an ambiance that reflects Japanese hospitality. Reddit Don't forget to sample local seafood and the renowned Bungo beef for a true taste of Oita Prefecture. Reddit

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