A Perfect Guide to Kyushu Hot Springs — Beppu Hell Tour & Yufuin Ryokan 2026
Everything about Kyushu hot springs — from Japan's largest hot spring output in Beppu, sand baths, to the charming ryokan village of Yufuin and Lake Kinrin. I've organized tips on hot spring types, ryokans, and itineraries from a Korean traveler's perspective.
🤖 Translated automatically by AI (GPT-4o-mini). Reviewed periodically.
From a Korean traveler's perspective, departing from Seoul/ICN.
Kyushu is renowned as one of Japan's hot spring havens. From Beppu, boasting the largest hot spring output in Japan, to the atmospheric ryokan village of Yufuin — it's perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay from Fukuoka. To sum it up: combining Beppu (Hell Tour & various baths) → Yufuin (ryokan & hot spring village) makes for a fulfilling experience. I've compiled information on hot spring types, itineraries, and tips.
Overview
- Beppu (別府): Japan's largest hot spring output, Hell Tour & sand baths
- Yufuin (由布院): Ryokans, Yunotsubo Street, Lake Kinrin, a charming hot spring village
- Access: About 2 hours by train or bus from Fukuoka (Hakata)
- Recommendation: Hot spring experience in Beppu + 1 night at a ryokan in Yufuin
- Tip: A night at a ryokan typically includes kaiseki dinner and breakfast
Beppu — The City of Hot Springs
Beppu is a city that boasts the largest hot spring output in Japan.
- Hell Tour (地獄めぐり): A sightseeing course that takes you around 7 'hells' such as Umi Jigoku (blue sea color) and Chinoike Jigoku (red mud). It's not about bathing but observing the hot springs.
- Sand Bath (スナユ): A unique hot spring experience in Beppu where you bury your body in warm sand.
- Variety of Baths: You can enjoy various types of hot springs, including mud, steam, and open-air baths.
Yufuin — A Ryokan and Emotional Hot Spring Village
Nestled at the foot of Mount Yufu, Yufuin is a quaint hot spring village.
- Yunotsubo Street: A charming promenade lined with unique shops, cafes, and dessert spots.
- Lake Kinrin: A small lake where morning mist rises, symbolizing Yufuin.
- Ryokan: Many ryokans feature private open-air baths (kashikiri buro), making them popular for couples and anniversary trips.
How to Enjoy Hot Springs & Tips
- One Night at a Ryokan: A night that includes kaiseki dinner + breakfast + hot spring access is the essence of Kyushu hot springs.
- Tattoos: Some hot springs restrict entry for those with tattoos, so check in advance.
- Hot Spring Etiquette: Wash your body before entering the bath, and do not dip your towel in the water.
- Itinerary: The most efficient route is Fukuoka → Beppu (Hell Tour) → Yufuin (1 night at a ryokan) → Fukuoka.
Where to Stay
The heart of a hot spring trip is spending a night at a ryokan. I recommend staying a day at a hot spring ryokan in Yufuin or Beppu, and it’s also possible to do a day trip from Fukuoka city. Check out the card below to compare hotels in Fukuoka.
I've organized the entire travel itinerary in the article 3 Nights and 4 Days Kyushu Hot Spring Course in Fukuoka, Beppu, and Yufuin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which hot springs in Kyushu are the best?
For hot spring experiences and attractions, Beppu is great, while Yufuin is perfect for a charming ryokan stay. I recommend combining both places for the Hell Tour and a ryokan night in Yufuin.
Q2. How long does it take from Fukuoka?
It takes about 2 hours by train or bus from Hakata to Beppu and Yufuin. A day trip is possible, but staying overnight at a ryokan allows for a more enjoyable hot spring experience.
Q3. Do you bathe in the Hell Tour?
No, the Hell Tour is not about bathing; it’s a sightseeing experience. You’ll explore uniquely colored hot springs like the blue Umi Jigoku and the red Chinoike Jigoku. Bathing is done at separate hot spring facilities.
Q4. Can I visit hot springs if I have tattoos?
Some hot springs and ryokans restrict entry for those with tattoos. Check before your visit, or choose a ryokan with private open-air baths (kashikiri buro) for more freedom.