Beppu Shore Excursion — Famous Hell Hot Springs Discovery
Steam, Springs & Scenic Views in Japan’s Hot Spring Capital
Duration: Half-day (~3–5 hours) ·
Why take this Beppu shore excursion?
Beppu is famed for its “hells” (“Jigoku”) — dramatic geothermal hot springs that spout steam, boil mud, and color water in striking tones. This excursion offers a compact but immersive look at Beppu’s otherworldly landscapes, local steam-cooking traditions, and panoramic views — ideal for cruise visitors with limited time ashore.
Snapshot Itinerary (sample — fully customizable)
- Pick-up at Beppu cruise terminal → begin shore excursion
- Hot Springs “Hells” Tour
Visit three of Beppu’s most popular hells:
- Sea Hell (Umi Jigoku) — striking blue water in a garden setting
- Blood Hell (Chi Jigoku / Blood Pond Hell) — reddish, iron-rich pool
- Tornado Hell (Tatsumaki Jigoku) — periodic geyser eruptions
- Jigokumushi Steam Cooking (Kannawa District)
Try steam-cooking food using natural hot spring steam — a local specialty known as “hell-steam cuisine.”
- Hot Spring Mist Observation Deck
Enjoy sweeping views of Beppu city and its iconic rising steam clouds.
- Return to port with time for re-embarkation
(Total time ashore depends on traffic and package choice.)
Packages & What’s Included
Platinum Package (recommended)
- Private car and English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fees to the hot-spring attractions
- Detailed guided commentary
- Flexible pick-up and return to ship
Not included: Lunch (can be added upon request)
Gold Package (driver-only / lower cost option)
- Private car with English-speaking driver (no guided walking commentary)
- More privacy and scheduling flexibility
- Driver can assist with logistics and basic guidance
Not included: Entrance fees, guided commentary inside sites, lunch
Private vs. Group Excursion
Private Excursion:
- Dedicated driver and guide
- Faster reception at port
- Customizable timing and itinerary
- Higher cost, but more flexibility and personalization
Group Excursion:
- Small group (up to ~29 people)
- More economical pricing
- Fixed itinerary and schedule
- Shared vehicle and slower port reception
Sample Itinerary: Beppui Shore Excursion
Hirosaki Castle, Nebuta Culture, and Oirase Stream
9:00 am – Pick-up at Beppu Cruise Terminal, meet your private driver/guide.
9:30 am – 11:00 am – Hot Springs “Hells” Tour
- Visit Sea Hell (Umi Jigoku) with its cobalt-blue waters.
- Stop at Blood Pond Hell (Chi Jigoku) with its vivid red spring.
- Watch the Tornado Hell (Tatsumaki Jigoku) geyser erupt.
11:15 am – 12:00 pm – Jigokumushi Steam Cooking Experience
- Visit Kannawa to try “hell-steam cuisine” — vegetables, eggs, and seafood cooked by natural geothermal steam.
12:15 pm – 1:15 pm – Lunch Break
- Optional add-on: local restaurant featuring Oita specialties such as toriten (tempura chicken) or fresh seafood.
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm – Hot Spring Mist Observation Deck & City Views
- Drive up to a scenic viewpoint to take in Beppu’s cityscape dotted with steaming vents.
2:45 pm – 3:45 pm – Optional Cultural Stop
- Choose from:
- Beppu Ropeway to Mt. Tsurumi for panoramic views.
- Local art or craft workshop (bamboo weaving, onsen-themed souvenirs).
- Shopping street stroll for local snacks and gifts.
4:00 pm – 4:30 pm – Return journey to Beppu Port.
5:00 pm – Drop-off at cruise terminal, with time to re-board your ship.
