Kitahama Onsen Terumasu - Image 1
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Kitahama Onsen Terumasu

4.4
·87 reviews·Beppu, Japan

Experience Beppu's authentic local onsen culture at Kitahama Onsen Terumasu for an unbeatable ¥100. A simple, charming, and budget-friendly hot spring...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxing

CrowdLow
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Kitahama Onsen Terumasu - Image 1

Kitahama Onsen Terumasu

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience Beppu's authentic local onsen culture at Kitahama Onsen Terumasu for an unbeatable ¥100. A simple, charming, and budget-friendly hot spring.

4.4
(87 reviews)

"Lovely local onsen for only ¥100, offering a genuine taste of Beppu's hot spring heritage."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Essentials

:handbag: Towels, shampoo, and soap are not provided. Pack them to avoid extra costs!

Master the Heat

:fire: Water is very hot! Mix in cold water to find your ideal temperature for a comfortable soak.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The ¥100 Soak

The ¥100 Soak

Main bathing area

Experience a genuine local onsen for an incredibly low price. A true taste of Beppu's hot spring culture.

Retro Charm

Retro Charm

Bathing and changing areas

Enjoy the rustic yellow tiles and vintage feel of this historic onsen, offering a unique aesthetic.

Friendly Local Encounters

Friendly Local Encounters

Bathing area

Connect with welcoming locals and experience genuine Japanese hospitality during your visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Kitahama Onsen Terumasu offers an authentic, no-frills hot spring experience for just ¥100. Bring your own towel and toiletries, as these aren't provided. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in local culture without breaking the bank.

Timing is Key for Comfort

While open late, this popular local spot can get busy. Visiting during off-peak hours ensures a more relaxed soak. Be prepared for the water to be quite hot, and don't be afraid to mix in some cold water to find your perfect temperature.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxing
Crowd
Low
When
Late evenings
Why
Experience local nightlife
Crowd
Medium

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

Bring Your Own Essentials

:handbag: Towels, shampoo, and soap are not provided. Pack them to avoid extra costs! Reddit

Master the Heat

:fire: Water is very hot! Mix in cold water to find your ideal temperature for a comfortable soak. Reddit

Who wants to see the hot spring capital of the world? ♨️ Beppu is the most unique city we have EVER visited and you MUST see this place at least once! 📍Beppu Seven Hells 📍Hyotan Onsen (world’s first Michelin onsen) 📍Jigokumushikobo Kannawa (🔥 steamed cuisine) 📍Okamotoya (Onsen steamed pudding restaurant) #beppu #kyushu #japan #travelgoals #japantrip #japan🇯🇵 #travelling
@hangrybynature
25.4K likes • 351.5K views
I visited the ONLY Michelin Three Star Hot Spring in Japan♨️ Tag a friend you would want to visit here with! #japan #japanese #onsen #beppu
@jesseogn
17.2K likes • 303.5K views

Local Onsen Stamp

:stamp: Get your Beppu onsen stamp at reception for a souvenir of your authentic experience. Reddit

Cash Only Entry

:yen: The entrance fee is only ¥100, so have your small change ready. Reddit

The most unique onsen hotel we’ve ever stayed in that’s perched on top of a hill in Beppu, Kyushu ♨️🇯🇵 📍Galleria Midobaru, Beppu, Oita If you’re planning a trip to the biggest hot spring city in the world, come and experience a stay here! #beppu #kyushu #japan #travels #travelgoals #japantrip #japantravel
@hangrybynature
4.2K likes • 60.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Essentials

:handbag: Towels, shampoo, and soap are not provided. Pack them to avoid extra costs! Reddit

Master the Heat

:fire: Water is very hot! Mix in cold water to find your ideal temperature for a comfortable soak. Reddit

Local Onsen Stamp

:stamp: Get your Beppu onsen stamp at reception for a souvenir of your authentic experience. Reddit

Cash Only Entry

:yen: The entrance fee is only ¥100, so have your small change ready. Reddit

Embrace the Simplicity

:sparkles: This is a no-frills, local spot. Enjoy the authentic atmosphere and friendly vibe. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(87 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Kitahama Onsen Terumasu for its incredibly low ¥100 entrance fee and authentic local atmosphere. It's praised for its rustic charm and friendly patrons, offering a genuine glimpse into Beppu's onsen culture. Some note the water's intense heat and the need to bring personal toiletries, but these are minor points for such an affordable and traditional experience.

"Lovely local onsen for only [¥100]. It's a simple onsen with one bath and few spigots for cold water to rinse yourself. (Located right next to a Don Quijote)"

Jaakko Heinonen

"Yesterday night, the first time that I tried hot spring in Japan, that was ready fun, we followed the local person’s instruction and they’re really nice to me, spring was really hot and you need to switch on the cold water to prevent burning."

Hans

"Nice local onsen. Entrance ¥100, you need to bring your own towel and shampoos. Operating hours 6:30-12:00 & 14:00-22:00, no parking. Beppu onsen stamp at the reception (usually unmanned).

There is a lot of space inside at the changing room which is connected to the bathing area so you can see your stuff while bathing. Medium size tub, rectangle shape, at the center of the bathing area with plenty of space around to wash and two mirrors, very friendly locals. The floor and the tub is made of big tiles and has a nice rustic yellow color. The water is not extremely hot so you can have a nice long soak and has a yellow color which might stain your towel. I Was told that in the past the water was silky blue and famous but at some point they drilled again and then the water turned into the yellow color there is today.
Looks quite old and has a nice retro feeling, recommended for a local experience.

Sodium-magnesium bicarbonate spring, pH ?, source 49.5°C, metasilicic acid 226.2mg, gensen kakenagashi."

Dia KL

What People Like

Incredibly low ¥100 fee
Authentic local atmosphere
Friendly patrons

What People Dislike

Water is very hot
Bring own toiletries

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kitahama Onsen Terumasu is conveniently located right next to a Don Quijote store in Beppu. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, Beppu is known for its accessible onsen districts, often reachable by local buses and taxis from Oita Airport or the city center. TikTok

According to local tips, there is no dedicated parking available at Kitahama Onsen Terumasu, so plan to use public transport or a taxi. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is incredibly affordable at just ¥100, making it one of the most budget-friendly onsen experiences in Japan. Reddit+1

No advance booking is typically required for this local onsen. You can usually pay the ¥100 fee upon arrival. Reddit

The onsen generally operates from 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM, though it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal changes. Reddit

Yes, its central location and low entry fee make it perfect for a quick, authentic onsen dip during your Beppu exploration. Reddit

🎫 🧖 Onsite Experience

This is a local, no-frills onsen. You'll need to bring your own towel, shampoo, and soap. The changing room is connected to the bathing area, offering a good view of your belongings. Reddit+1

The water is a sodium-magnesium bicarbonate spring and is known to be quite hot. It has a distinct yellow color, which may stain towels. Reddit

Yes, you can get your Beppu onsen stamp at the reception desk, which is usually unmanned. It's a great way to commemorate your visit. Reddit

Standard Japanese onsen etiquette applies: wash thoroughly before entering the bath, do not put your towel in the water, and be mindful of other bathers. Reddit

As a popular local spot, it can get busy, especially during peak hours. Visiting during off-peak times like weekday mornings can offer a more serene experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Kitahama Onsen Terumasu is primarily a bathing facility and does not offer food services. However, its location next to a Don Quijote means you can easily grab snacks or drinks nearby. Reddit

Being in Beppu, you'll find numerous dining options nearby, from local ramen shops to izakayas. The proximity to Don Quijote also offers convenient snack options. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography inside onsen facilities, especially in bathing areas, is generally discouraged to respect the privacy of other bathers. Focus on capturing the exterior or the surrounding area. TikTok

The onsen has a distinct retro charm with its rustic yellow tiles and a simple, classic bathing area that photographers might find appealing for its authentic feel. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kitahama Onsen Terumasu offers a very affordable and authentic onsen experience that families can enjoy. The low entry fee of ¥100 per person makes it an accessible activity for everyone. However, parents should be aware that the water can be quite hot, so it's essential to supervise children closely and mix in cold water to ensure their comfort and safety. Reddit+1

Since amenities like towels and toiletries are not provided, packing a family-sized kit with essentials is recommended. The simple, open bathing area might be more comfortable for families than more crowded or complex facilities. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to Japanese bathing culture in a relaxed, local setting. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Kitahama Onsen Terumasu is an absolute must-visit. The ¥100 entrance fee is astonishingly low, offering incredible value for an authentic onsen experience. This is one of the most economical ways to enjoy a traditional Japanese hot spring. Reddit+1

Remember to factor in the cost of bringing your own towel and toiletries, but even with these additions, the overall expense remains minimal. Its central location in Beppu also means you can easily incorporate it into a day of exploring without significant travel costs. It's the perfect way to relax and recharge without straining your wallet. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find Kitahama Onsen Terumasu to be a welcoming and straightforward destination. The low cost and simple setup make it easy to navigate independently. It's an excellent opportunity to observe local life and perhaps even strike up a conversation with friendly residents. Reddit

Being a local spot, it offers a genuine cultural immersion that solo travelers often seek. Remember to bring your own essentials and be prepared for the hot water. The chance to get the Beppu onsen stamp adds a nice touch to a solo adventure. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Beppu's Onsen Culture

Beppu, often hailed as the 'hot spring capital of the world,' boasts an incredible array of onsen experiences, from the dramatic 'Hells' of Jigoku Meguri to luxurious spa resorts. Kitahama Onsen Terumasu stands out as a gem for its commitment to preserving a traditional, local bathing culture. Unlike some of the more tourist-centric attractions, this onsen offers a glimpse into the daily lives of Beppu residents. TikTok+1

The unique aspect of Kitahama Onsen Terumasu is its incredibly low entry fee of just ¥100. This affordability makes it accessible to everyone, fostering a community atmosphere. Visitors often remark on the friendly locals and the genuine, unpretentious environment. It’s a place where you can truly relax and soak in the local ambiance, a stark contrast to the more elaborate and sometimes overwhelming tourist spots. Reddit+1

While it may not have the opulent facilities of a five-star resort, its charm lies in its simplicity and authenticity. The rustic yellow tiles and the straightforward bathing area contribute to its retro feel, offering a nostalgic experience. For travelers seeking an unadulterated taste of Japanese onsen culture without the hefty price tag, Kitahama Onsen Terumasu is an unmissable stop. Reddit

Navigating the Onsen Experience: Tips for First-Timers

Visiting an onsen for the first time can be a bit daunting, but Kitahama Onsen Terumasu offers a welcoming entry point. The most crucial tip is to bring your own towel, shampoo, and soap, as these are not provided. This is a common practice in many local Japanese onsen. The ¥100 entrance fee is paid upon arrival, so have your small change ready. Reddit

Once inside, you'll find a changing room connected to the bathing area, allowing you to keep an eye on your belongings. Before entering the main bath, it's essential to wash yourself thoroughly at the provided washing stations. This is a fundamental part of onsen etiquette. The water at Kitahama Onsen Terumasu is known to be quite hot, so don't hesitate to mix in cold water from the taps to achieve a comfortable temperature. Reddit+1

Embrace the communal aspect of the onsen. Be respectful of other bathers, keep noise levels down, and avoid putting your towel in the bathwater. The yellow hue of the water is characteristic and may leave a slight stain on towels, so consider bringing an older one if you're concerned. Finally, don't forget to ask for your Beppu onsen stamp at the reception – a small but memorable souvenir of your authentic experience. Reddit

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