Oita Hot Springs Paradise: Private Cut-Stone Baths, Yufuin’s Floral Village & Beppu’s Hell Tour – A Luxurious 1-2 Day Onsen Adventure

Oita Prefecture, known as Japan’s “Onsen Prefecture,” boasts an incredible variety of hot springs. This trip perfectly blended the charming streets of Yufuin, the dramatic Beppu Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour), and exclusive private onsen experiences. From relaxing in a cut-stone private bath to strolling Yufuin’s whimsical Floral Village, exploring seven colorful hells, and soaking in traditional thatched-roof family baths at Myoban Yunosato — it was a journey filled with healing, wonder, and unforgettable memories.

Our trip began with a private hot spring bath we stumbled upon on our way to Yufuin. The parking lot was full of cars, so it seemed to be a very popular hot spring. The private hot spring was packed, but after a short wait, we were able to enjoy a bath.

After arriving at Yufuin Station, we first took a leisurely stroll along Yunotsubo Street.

This charming street, with the majestic Mount Yufu as a backdrop, is lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and galleries. The gentle steam rising from the ground and the seasonal flowers create a quiet and photogenic atmosphere. We enjoyed the relaxed tourist atmosphere while browsing local sweets and snacks.

Next, we visited Yufuin, which left a particularly strong impression. Floral Village, located on Yunotsubo Street, is a compact theme park that recreates the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds in England. The cobblestone paths, colorful flowerbeds, and charming cottages make you feel as if you've wandered into a picture book. The park also features an owl forest where you can take commemorative photos while holding an owl, and shops selling character goods such as Peter Rabbit and Studio Ghibli merchandise. Admission is free, and there's a cute cafe, making it perfect for couples and families. You can enjoy a refreshing atmosphere that's quite different from traditional Japanese hot spring towns.

Next, we traveled by car to experience Beppu's famous "Hell Tour." Beppu has seven unique geothermal areas called "hells" where hot water, steam, and mud erupt from the ground. We started in the Kannawa area and visited Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), a nationally renowned spot with its vibrant cobalt blue water at 98°C, giant steam columns, and lush tropical plants. Next, we went to Oniishi Bozu Jigoku (Demon Stone Monk Hell), where the gray mud resembles a monk's head.

Following that, we visited Kamado Jigoku (Kamado Hell), Oniyama Jigoku (Demon Mountain Hell - with crocodiles!), and Shiraike Jigoku (White Pond Hell). We then moved to the Kamegawa area and saw Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell), which is blood-red, and Tatsumaki Jigoku (Tornado Hell), a powerful geyser. You can efficiently visit all of them with a common ticket. On this tour, you can experience the raw power of nature up close, and the colors, sounds, and smells are captivating. Don't miss the footbaths and the steamed dishes called "Jigoku-mushi" (hell-steamed), such as pudding and steamed eggs.

For more details about the travel locations and to see more of the journey, check out our YouTube channel.

📹https://youtu.be/HEeenhiB7oE?si=uwHN2gbiZry874EH