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Nestled in Beppu’s scenic mountain foothills, Myoban Onsen is the highest-elevation onsen among Beppu's renowned eight hot spring districts. Its most iconic feature is the Yunohana Huts, traditional thatched-roof structures where natural bath salts, known as yunohana, have been produced for centuries by using the steam from the hot springs.

Visitors can indulge in two types of onsen here: milky white sulfur baths and mineral-rich mud baths, both highly regarded for their skin-smoothing properties.

The culinary delights unique to Myoban Onsen are another major attraction. Favorites like Jigoku Steamed Pudding and Jigoku Steamed Egg Sandwiches, prepared using steam from the hot springs, are popular with tourists. Be sure to enjoy these treats alongside your onsen experience.

The yunohana bath salts, known for their excellent warming and cleansing effects, are also available as souvenirs. Bring home a small package to transform your own bath into a Myoban Onsen experience!

The onsen hot springs at Beppu have been gushing and flowing for more than 1,000 years. In the past, the steam and boiling water from these onsen were considered to be dangerous, which led to them being called jigoku, or "hells". Today, these seven distinct "hells" are popular tourist attractions, and visiting them is known as the "Beppu Jigoku Tour.

The tour includes Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell), Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell), Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell), Oniishi Bozu Jigoku (Monk's Head Hell), Oniyama Jigoku (Demon Mountain Hell), and Kamado Jigoku (Cooking Pot Hell). Four of these – Umi Jigoku, Chinoike Jigoku, Oniishi Bozu Jigoku, and Kamado Jigoku – are designated as Places of Scenic Beauty by the Japanese government. Highlights include the cobalt-blue, 98℃ waters of Umi Jigoku, the striking red pool of Chinoike Jigoku, the alternating bursts of hot water and steam at Tatsumaki Jigoku, and the pale bluish hues of Shiraike Jigoku. Additionally, free foot baths are available at Umi Jigoku, Chinoike Jigoku, Oniishi Bozu Jigoku, and Kamado Jigoku – don’t miss the chance to try them out!

Be sure to indulge in the local gourmet treats, such as onsen tamago (eggs cooked in the hot springs), jigoku-mushi yaki pudding (pudding that has been steamed by using the hot water from the hells), and the uniquely colored chinoike pudding.

To make the most of your Jigoku Tour experience, consider purchasing a shared admission ticket, which allows you to visit all seven hells at a discounted price. Alternatively, you can take a guided sightseeing bus, which efficiently covers all seven sites in about three hours – highly recommended!

Kannawa Onsen serves as the vibrant heart of Beppu tourism, attracting visitors with iconic attractions like the Beppu Jigoku Tour (Hell Tour). The area is characterized by its unique landscape of billowing steam rising from countless onsen sources and its nostalgic charm that reflects Beppu’s historic ambiance.

Renowned for its deep-rooted onsen therapy culture, Kannawa Onsen continues to offer a wide array of experiences. Visitors can enjoy day-use onsen facilities or opt for extended stays at traditional inns to fully immerse themselves in the therapeutic waters. The variety of spring types, including chloride springs, simple hot springs, and sulfur springs, ensures there’s something for everyone.

A must-try experience is the Mushi-yu, a natural herbal steam sauna. Participants recline over aromatic stones of shobu (sweet flag) while the therapeutic steam gently envelops their entire body – a rejuvenating and uniquely relaxing activity.

Make sure not to miss the local culinary delight, Jigoku Mushi (Hell Steaming). This traditional cooking method uses onsen steam to prepare vegetables, seafood, and meats, highlighting their natural flavors. At interactive facilities, you can select your own ingredients, place them into steam chambers, and savor the freshly cooked meal. Watching the rising steam as your meal cooks adds an extra layer of fun, making it a memorable part of your journey.

Perched on a hillside in Beppu, Yukemuri Observation Deck offers a stunning view of the Beppu and Kannawa onsen districts, where countless plumes of steam rise into the sky. You can also enjoy the majestic sight of Mt. Tsurumi and Mt. Ohira (Mt. Ogi) towering behind the onsen district. During sunset, the sky’s colors change from moment to moment, creating a magical scene as the steam blends with the shifting light. On weekends and holidays, the Yukemuri Light-Up event illuminates the steam and the onsen district with various colors, creating a breathtaking nightscape that has been recognized as part of the Japan Nightscape Heritage.
Note: The Yukemuri Observation Deck is located in a residential area. Please be mindful of nearby residents during your visit.

Beppu Tower, a beloved symbol of Beppu City, stands 100 meters tall and was designated a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan in 2007. From its 55-meter-high observation deck, you can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of Beppu City, Beppu Bay, and even as far as Shikoku. At night, the tower is illuminated, displaying various colors and patterns that change with the seasons and events, offering a mesmerizing sight. In 2023, it was recognized as part of Japan’s Nightscape Heritage.

On the 5th floor, the Kitahama Deck, covered entirely in artificial turf, offers a thrilling perspective as you look straight up at the tower. At night, colorful lights on tables and chairs create an enchanting atmosphere. On the 2nd floor, the Beppu Art Museum showcases approximately 400 art pieces by renowned celebrities and artists, providing another dimension of cultural enjoyment.