If you are planning a trip to the world’s hot spring capital, you’ve likely heard of the “Hells of Beppu” (Jigoku Meguri). These aren’t hot springs for bathing; they are spectacular, boiling geothermal wonders meant for sightseeing. Among the seven official “Hells,” Kamado Jigoku (The Cooking Pot Hell) stands out as the fan favorite for international tourists, thanks to its many hands-on experiences.Why is it so popular? Because Kamado Jigoku offers a “best-of” experience. If you only have limited time in Beppu, this is the perfect spot to enjoy a wide variety of geothermal wonders all at once.
What is Kamado Jigoku? (And Why It’s Different)
The name Kamado Jigoku literally means “Cooking Pot Hell.” This name stems from an ancient tradition at the nearby Kamado Hachiman Shrine, where residents used the area’s natural geothermal steam to cook large quantities of rice as offerings to the gods.Unlike other Hells that focus on a single feature (like the blood-red pond or the blue pond), Kamado Jigoku features six distinct areas with completely different appearances. It’s like a theme park powered by the Earth’s heat!
The Ponds of Kamado Jigoku: A Visual Journey
As you walk through the grounds, the scenery changes dramatically every few steps:
The Cobalt Blue Pond
A stunning, milky-blue pond similar to the famous Umi Jigoku.
The Boiling Mud Fountain
Thick, gray clay that bubbles and pops, creating mesmerizing geometric patterns.
The Red Pond
Infused with iron-rich minerals, this pond mimics the eerie blood-red hue of Chinoike Jigoku.
Interactive Experiences: Don’t Just Look, Participate!
What truly sets Kamado Jigoku apart is the chance to see, touch, taste, and fully experience onsen culture.
Drinkable Onsen Water: Taste the Earth’s Minerals
Have you ever wondered what a hot spring tastes like? At Kamado Jigoku, you can try drinkable onsen water. The water is about 80°C, so be extremely careful! It is naturally salty and sulfur-smelling—it might not be your new favorite beverage, but it is a healthy, mineral-rich experience, rare even in Japan.
Steam Therapy: Nature’s Gift for Beauty and Health
You will find spots for throat and skin steaming. Simply lean over the vents to let the mineral-rich steam moisturize your face or soothe your throat. It’s a natural spa treatment straight from the volcano!
The Famous “Smoke Show”
One of the highlights for first-time visitors is the “Smoke Show.” Staff blow smoke over the surface of the ponds, and the particles react with the steam, causing a sudden, dramatic cloud of white vapor. It’s a classic photo opportunity!
“Hellish” Delights: Must-Try Foods at Kamado Jigoku
You can’t leave without trying the local delicacies steamed by the earth’s natural heat (Jigokumushi style).
- Soy Sauce Pudding: Rich and incredibly creamy. Many visitors say it tastes more like a rare cheesecake than a traditional pudding. The saltiness of the soy sauce perfectly balances the sweetness.
- Red Demon Soft Serve: For the brave, try the ice cream topped with seven-spice seasoning (Shichimi). It’s a surprising yet delicious mix of cold, sweet, and spicy!
- Hell-Steamed Eggs: A staple of Beppu. These eggs are steamed in mineral-rich hot spring steam, giving the whites a slightly brownish tint and a unique, smoky flavor.
Essential Tips for Foreign Visitors
To ensure you have a smooth and respectful visit, keep these tips in mind:
Footbath Etiquette
There are several footbaths (Ashiyu) on-site, and they are free to enjoy!
- Pro Tip: Bring a small towel with you to dry your feet. If you forget, towels are usually available for purchase for a small fee.
- Note: No need to undress for a footbath; just roll up your pants and soak!
Entry Fees & Hours
- Standard Fee: 500 JPY for adults (250 JPY for children).
- Combination Ticket: If you plan to see all seven Hells, the “Common Admission Pass” (2,400 JPY) is the best value.
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (open year-round).
How to Get There
From JR Beppu Station, take the Kamenoi Bus and get off at the “Umi-jigoku-mae” or “Kannawa” bus stop. It’s a short, 5-minute walk from there.
How to get to Beppu, where Kamado Jigoku is located
Conclusion: Why Kamado Jigoku Belongs on Your Beppu Itinerary
Kamado Jigoku is the perfect introduction to the jigoku onsen culture. It is fun, interactive, and provides a comprehensive look at the geothermal power that makes Beppu so special. Whether you are tasting the salty water or daring your friends to try the spicy ice cream, it’s a place where memories are made.
