Greetings! We find ourselves in Beppu, Japan! Unlike other Japanese cities, Beppu boasts a youthful population, partly thanks to the presence of Asia Pacific University, renowned for drawing in international students.
Beppu also attracts a lot of tourists thanks to a wide variety of attractions.
Takasakiyama Monkey Park, renowned for its wild Japanese macaques, is widely popular among visitors.
What attracts tourists to Beppu the most, however, are the frighteningly captivating Hells of Beppu.
The Hells of Beppu have no connection to demons or devils; on the contrary, it's quite the opposite.
Beppu is known for having the largest number of hot springs in Japan, as well as being the second most in the world, after Yellowstone National Park in the US.
The rising steam from Beppu's ground and waters creates an otherworldly atmosphere. It looks like the city sits on top of an ever-lasting inferno.
However, tourists visit Beppu to find relaxation in the hot springs, rather than fear or torment.
In total, there are eight "hells" in Beppu, known as Jigoku.
Umi Jigoku is approximately 650 feet (200 meters) deep and translates to 'sea hell.'
The color of the water in Umi Jigoku resembles seawater.
Visitors can find the lotus flower in the gardens around Umi Jigoku, a symbol of spiritual purity in Eastern cultures.
The second hell in Beppu is called Oniishibozu Jigoku, which means 'Shaven Head Hell.'
The spring is named as such because of the bubbles created by the gray mud, resembling the shaved heads of Buddhist monks.
Yama Jigoku was formed by volcanic eruptions which created a mountain.
The temperature of the waters in Yama Jigoku can reach almost 200°F (90ºC).
Kamado Jigoku means 'cooking pot hell,' a name inspired by the boiling water in its springs.
At this location, tourists have the opportunity to sample Jigoku mushi, a dish of eggs and vegetables cooked by the steam of the springs.
Oniyama Jigoku means 'crocodile hell!'
Exercise caution when visiting Oniyama Jigoku, a natural spring inhabited by crocodiles and snakes.
Shiraike Jigoku is known as 'white pond hell' and is surrounded by a traditional Japanese garden.
In Shiraike Jigoku, water temperatures can reach 203°F (95ºC).
Tatsumaki Jigoku is highly regarded as Beppu's greatest attraction.
In English, the name means 'tornado hell,' as it is one of the only geysers in Beppu.
Beppu's eighth and final hot spring is known as Chinoike Jigoku.
Believed to be one of Beppu's most ancient hot springs, it is called the 'blood pond' because of the water's distinct color.
When you travel to Beppu, don't miss the opportunity to visit all the hot springs by taking the Jigoku Meguri tour. It's a comprehensive exploration of the city's springs. Have a great trip!
See also: Cities with the best weather in the world
If you visit Beppu in Japan, you'll see the spectacle of hot steam emanating from the earth throughout the city. It almost seems to have emerged from the depths of Hell! But don't be afraid, it's actually a popular spa destination for those looking to relax.
Intrigued to learn more? Explore our gallery and discover one of the world's most extraordinary hot spots.
If you visit Beppu in Japan, you'll see the spectacle of hot steam emanating from the earth throughout the city. It almost seems to have emerged from the depths of Hell! But don't be afraid, it's actually a popular spa destination for those looking to relax.
Intrigued to learn more? Explore our gallery and discover one of the world's most extraordinary hot spots.
If you visit Beppu in Japan, you'll see the spectacle of hot steam emanating from the earth throughout the city. It almost seems to have emerged from the depths of Hell! But don't be afraid, it's actually a popular spa destination for those looking to relax.
Intrigued to learn more? Explore our gallery and discover one of the world's most extraordinary hot spots.
The Hells of Beppu: visit the steaming city
A city built over hell itself!
TRAVEL Japan
If you visit Beppu in Japan, you'll see the spectacle of hot steam emanating from the earth throughout the city. It almost seems to have emerged from the depths of Hell! But don't be afraid, it's actually a popular spa destination for those looking to relax.
Intrigued to learn more? Explore our gallery and discover one of the world's most extraordinary hot spots.