Enjoying Beppu to the fullest

Beppu truly lives up to its reputation as a hot spring city, with even the air carrying a hint of sulfur. The first stop was the renowned Hell Hot Springs Tour. Blood Pond Hell is strikingly red like real blood, while Bald Head Hell boasts unbelievably clear and blue waters. Each hot spring offers a unique atmosphere, scent, temperature, and sound, making it worth visiting them all. Despite the crowds of tourists, the photo opportunities are fantastic. While the hot spring eggs are intriguing, the Hell Steamed Cuisine was particularly delicious. The experience of steaming fresh seafood and vegetables in bamboo steamers with billowing steam was more than just a meal—it was an unforgettable culinary adventure. In the evening, I wandered into a small izakaya near Beppu Station and enjoyed Beppu’s specialty, 'Toriten' (chicken tempura), paired with a glass of matcha beer. The salty crunch of the tempura was the perfect complement to a body relaxed from the hot springs. For accommodations, I chose an onsen hotel with a ryokan-style ambiance. Ending the day in an open-air bath while gazing at the night sky was an unforgettable moment. Taking it slow and savoring Beppu was the perfect way to recharge and unwind.