Takegawara Onsen
Experience a historic Beppu onsen with a unique sand bath and traditional architecture. A must-visit for a taste of old Japan.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better chance for sand bath
Takegawara Onsen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better chance for sand bath
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a historic Beppu onsen with a unique sand bath and traditional architecture. A must-visit for a taste of old Japan.
"Worth it once for the novelty and history, but if you’re after a real onsen soak, there are far better spots. "
⏳ Sand Bath Reservations
Sand bath slots fill up quickly; aim for early morning or late afternoon. :ticket:
🧼 Bring Your Own Toiletries
Shampoo, soap, and towels are not included; pack them or buy on-site. :soap:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sand Bath Immersion
Sand Bath Area
Experience a unique 15-minute ritual of being buried in naturally heated volcanic sand.
Traditional Bathhouse
Main Bath Area
Enjoy a classic hot spring soak in a beautiful, old-fashioned building with a rich history.
Historic Architecture
Admire the magnificent, traditional Japanese architecture of the building itself.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Sand Bath Slots Early
Pack Your Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Sand Bath Reservations
Sand bath slots fill up quickly; aim for early morning or late afternoon. :ticket:
🧼 Bring Your Own Toiletries
Shampoo, soap, and towels are not included; pack them or buy on-site. :soap:
💰 Sand Bath Cost
Expect to pay around ¥1500 for the 15-minute sand bath experience.
💧 Main Bath Entry
The regular hot spring bath is much cheaper at ¥300.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Sand Bath Reservations
Sand bath slots fill up quickly; aim for early morning or late afternoon. :ticket:
🧼 Bring Your Own Toiletries
Shampoo, soap, and towels are not included; pack them or buy on-site. :soap:
💰 Sand Bath Cost
Expect to pay around ¥1500 for the 15-minute sand bath experience.
💧 Main Bath Entry
The regular hot spring bath is much cheaper at ¥300.
🖼️ Art in the Lobby
Enjoy local art exhibitions in the main lobby while waiting.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Takegawara Onsen is praised for its historic architecture and the unique sand bath experience, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese bathing culture. However, visitors note the basic facilities, lack of provided amenities, and the need for advance planning for the popular sand bath.
"What a gorgeous Onsen! Very simple but that’s all you need. Beautiful traditional atmosphere. I didn’t do the sand bath but that seems to be very popular and best to get an appointment in early! I was very lucky my hotel gave me a free admission ticket to this spot. Ended up buying some cool onsen goods and of course, a cold milk in a glass bottle after bathing."
Nina Cataldo
"If you want to tick “sand bath” off your bucket list, this is the place. Fifteen minutes buried in hot sand for ¥1500 feels more like a quirky health ritual than a spa, probably good for you (I checked), but not exactly pampering.
Facilities are bare-bones: no free water, no lotion, no soap, no shampoo, no razor, no comb, no toothbrush. Even the hair dryer eats ¥100 coins for 7 minutes, so bring your speed-drying skills. After the sand bath, you’ll find just two shower cubicles and a small cement hot tub that feels more backyard than bathhouse. For something bigger, you’ll have to change back into clothes and cross to the main bath (included), but don’t expect much beyond hot water.
Some reviews said it was very hot, but we went on a rainy day and it wasn’t as intense as expected. Bonus: no queue at all.
Verdict: Worth it once for the novelty and history, but if you’re after a real onsen soak, there are far better spots."
Born
"I came here on a rainy Wednesday afternoon in March 2025 around 3PM. Unfortunately the list for the sand bath (1500円) was already full until 5PM by this time, so I just tried their regular onsen (300円). The whole building, including the bath, is beautiful. There are small lockers for valuables in the main lobby, and shelves within the onsen area. There is no shampoo or body wash, so you must rinse yourself thoroughly with the hot water before entering (there are buckets and stools provided). There is only one bath, and it was quite hot when I went (above 40°C). There is a cold water tap you can rinse yourself with to cool off. Please note according to local rules you cannot sit on the edge of the pool. In the main lobby of the building they invite local artists to expose their work, so you can enjoy the artwork while waiting."
Sarah Hasselman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Takegawara Onsen is centrally located in Beppu, often referred to as the 'hot spring capital of Japan.' +1 You can easily reach it using local buses or taxis from Oita Airport or within Beppu city. It's a popular spot, so many visitors find it straightforward to access.
Yes, Takegawara Onsen is very accessible by public transport. Local buses frequently stop near the onsen, making it a convenient option for travelers exploring Beppu.
Many visitors explore Beppu's various onsen districts, including the famous 'Seven Hells' (Jigoku Meguri), using local buses or by walking if distances are short. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The popular sand bath experience at Takegawara Onsen typically costs around ¥1500 for a 15-minute session. It's advisable to check current pricing upon arrival.
The regular hot spring bath at Takegawara Onsen is significantly more affordable, usually costing around ¥300.
While not always mandatory, booking or arriving very early for the sand bath is highly recommended as slots fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Some hotels may offer complimentary admission tickets to Takegawara Onsen as part of their guest amenities. It's worth inquiring with your accommodation.
The sand bath ticket primarily covers the 15-minute sand immersion. You'll need to purchase or bring separate items like towels and toiletries.
🎫 ♨️ Onsite Experience
Takegawara Onsen offers a very traditional experience. Basic amenities like soap, shampoo, body wash, towels, and hair dryers are generally not included and must be purchased or brought from home. Hair dryers often require coins.
The sand used for the sand bath is naturally heated by geothermal activity and can be quite hot, though some visitors on cooler days found it less intense.
The main bath is a simple, hot spring pool, often above 40°C. It's included with the sand bath fee or accessible for a small separate charge. Remember to rinse thoroughly before entering and adhere to local rules about sitting on the edge.
Generally, it's best to keep electronics like phones away from the bathing areas to respect other visitors and prevent damage. Small lockers are available for valuables.
The sand bath is a unique, hot experience. While many find it beneficial, it might not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions. Consult a doctor if you have concerns.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally not permitted inside the bathing areas of traditional onsen like Takegawara to respect privacy. You can usually take photos of the exterior architecture and the lobby area.
The magnificent traditional architecture of the building's exterior and the lobby, which often features local art, are great for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Important considerations for families: Bring all necessary toiletries as they are not provided.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, pack your own towels, soap, and shampoo, as purchasing them on-site can add up.
✨ Couples & Solo Travelers
Couples can enjoy the novelty of the sand bath together, making for a memorable shared experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Sand Bath Experience
While the sand bath is the main attraction for many, it's important to note that it's more of a quirky health ritual than a luxurious spa treatment.
Pro-tip: The sand bath is extremely popular, and slots can fill up hours in advance, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider visiting on a weekday afternoon for a better chance to experience this unique offering.
Exploring Beppu's Onsen Culture
Many travelers find Beppu to be a city where hot springs are integrated into daily life, with onsen available on almost every corner.
When visiting Beppu, consider exploring beyond Takegawara Onsen to fully appreciate the city's geothermal wonders. The 'Seven Hells' offer visually stunning, albeit sometimes intense, geothermal landscapes, while other onsen provide more conventional bathing experiences.
The Historic Architecture of Takegawara
Even if you don't opt for a bath, the building's aesthetic appeal makes it worth a visit. The main lobby often features exhibitions of local art, providing a cultural experience alongside the architectural appreciation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit