Hafen
Beppu

Visit two of Beppu’s many hot springs known as jigokus and a forested park that countless wild monkeys inhabit. With more than 2,500 thermal springs in and around Beppu, thick clouds of steam can always be seen rising from the ground. At the Umi Jigoku, the so called Sea Hell, you will notice that the cobalt-blue water is near boiling and so hot that visitors only observe the thermal phenomenon. However, at the Chinoike Jigoku or Blood Pond Hell, you might take a foot bath in the iron oxide-rich water that gives the pool its reddish color. The hot springs throughout Beppu are said to have restorative powers, and visitors come from all over to soak in them. The Takasakiyama Monkey Park is also wildly popular, as it offers a rare close-up look at macaques freely roaming the forested mountain slopes. You too will be free to wander about while observing these Old World monkeys.

Behold four of the area’s most unusual jigokus—or Boiling Hell Hot Springs—each of which has unique qualities. Beppu is known for its thermal springs, which number in the thousands. The hotter ones are affectionately called “hells,” as the water is often bubbling with a cloud of steam hanging over the surface. Sea Hell is a fine example, as its cobalt-blue water is so hot that sitting in it would be unbearable. The water at Blood Pond Hell is nearly as hot, but boasts a blood-red hue from the iron oxide in it. You will also enjoy a close-up view of Oniishi Bozu, a hellish spring full of grey thermal mud. The churning mud supposedly looks like the shaven head of a bozu or Buddhist monk, an observation that inspired its name. The Oniyama thermal spring may be even more remarkable, as crocodiles have somewhat acclimated to the water temperature and are bred there.

Gain insight into the Shinto religion at an 8th-century shrine and observe two of the most spectacular thermal springs around Beppu. Usa Jinga Shrine is one of the oldest in Japan and is dedicated to Hachiman, the patron deity of war. The design of the shrine’s vermilion-lacquered main hall is a prototype of the Hachiman-zukuri style of architecture and is well worth exploring, as are the cultural artifacts in the shrine’s treasure hall. The thermal springs throughout Beppu may be even more visually arresting, especially ones such as Chinoike Jigoku. Also known as Blood Pond Hell, the spring is blood-red, a color that comes from the iron oxide in the water. If you wish, you can take a foot bath in the restorative waters. In contrast, the water in the nearby hot spring Umi Jigoku is colored turquoise blue. While there, you may see vendors selling pudding that was cooked in the boiling water.

Marvel at the diversity of attractions in Beppu, which range from a serene seaside aquarium to bubbling thermal springs that are so hot they are called “hells.” Most of the marine life in Umitamago Aquarium can be found just off shore, which makes the attraction all the more relevant. Highlights include sharks, stingrays and an endless parade of colorful fish. You will also get a good look at dozens of crocodiles, not at the aquarium but rather at the nearby Oniyama thermal spring. Despite the high water temperature, crocodiles have acclimated so well that they are bred there. They are not only massive creatures, but also long-lived; the most famous crocodile being a monstrous specimen that lived to be 71 years old. It is stuffed and on display inside. You will also stop at Sea Hell, a boiling thermal spring with bright cobalt-blue water and a cloud of steam always rising off the surface.

View the area’s indigenous marine life and wildlife, beginning with a leisurely walk through Umitamago, a modern aquarium whose name means “sea egg.” As you peer into the massive aquarium tanks, you will likely see sharks, stingrays and countless colorful fish swimming about. Be sure to see the outdoor tanks, some of which have infinity edges that make them appear like an extension of Beppu Bay. Other pools are devoted to creatures that spend some of their time on land, including walruses, seals and penguins. For an up-close look at the wild macaque monkeys that freely roam Mt. Takasaki, you will visit a park on its densely forested lower slopes. There are well over a thousand monkeys living there, and although the park wardens feed them, the monkeys come and go as they please. It will be quite the experience, as you might find yourself standing among dozens of primates.

Delve into the history of Usuki, a former castle town famous for its many Buddha sculptures carved into the surrounding rock cliffs. Buddhas made of stone are rare in Japan, but there are about 60 of them in Usuki, all carved between the 8th and 12th centuries. The Buddhas are sheltered from the elements because the stone is of volcanic origin and somewhat soft and moist, which makes the sculptures susceptible to erosion. Although the castle overlooking Usuki is in ruins, you will get an intriguing glimpse into the past at the meticulously maintained Inaba residence. During the Edo Period, the feudal lord of Usuki was a member of the Inaba clan and lived there. You can’t help but impressed by the serenity, as the wooden residence is simply and elegantly designed and surrounded by gardens. The samurais lived nearby in a district that has also been beautifully restored.

Spend free time exploring a rural village in the shadow of twin-peaked Mount Yufu and then walk across Japan’s longest and highest suspension bridge. Much like Beppu, Yufuin is known for its hot springs, although the atmosphere in the village is more relaxed because of the rural setting. While meandering about, you might browse the boutiques and art museums lining the main street. You will find the laidback ambiance wonderfully appealing, as Yufuin has the amenities of a larger city but without the crowds. Farther inland, you will visit the Kokonoe Yume Suspension Bridge. As you walk across its span, you will enjoy magnificent views of the idyllic countryside, two waterfalls and the Naruko River. Look straight down and you will see the valley floor nearly 600 feet below. The bridge was designed to hold as many as 1,800 people at a time and will sway a bit as you walk along, which adds to the thrill.

Beppu is one of Japan's most famous hot spring resort areas, offering an unmatched range of baths & "hells" to be enjoyed. Many baths are said to be beneficial for illnesses like rheumatism, fatigue, neuralgia and a host of others. One highlight is to stroll in Jigokus, meaning "Hells" in Japanese. Due to spewing gases, thermal mud, and boiling water for over 1000 years, local people have called it "hell." There are 8 Jigokus in total and today you will visit the two most popular ones - "blood pond hell - Chinoike Jigoku", that is only 20-minute drive away from the port and the "cobalt blue sea hell - Umi Jigoku" that is a little further away. There is a small foot spa at Umi Jigoku, feel free to soak your feet in the hot spring.

Next, a short drive will take you to visit the Beppu City Traditional Bamboo Crafts Center where you will learn of the history and important role this craft played in the region. In 1979 the craft was designated a 'Traditional Craft' by the Japanese Government. The center houses a collection of traditional crafts of national importance including: traditional utensils, furniture, clothing etc. Having learnt about the bamboo craft, you will have the opportunity to also get some 'hands-on' knowledge. Under the guidance of a skilled artisan, you will experience an element of bamboo making by decorating a bamboo bell made of five colored bamboo sticks.

Leaving the Crafts Center, it is on to a nearby local restaurant offering interesting Japanese set-menu lunch. For centuries, locals have been using the naturally hot steam for cooking their food. These dishes are called "Hell Steam Cuisine" and are very healthy due to the additive-free cooking method. The steam is also said to bring out the natural flavors of the food. Assisted by staff-members, you will have an opportunity to cook selected ingredients for your very own 'hell meal'. Fully replenished, re-board your coach for the short transfer to your ship as you reminisce on your trip to Beppu Hell.

Experience the spectacular, colourful, and natural hot springs of Beppu during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Beppu, Hot Springs, Chinoike Jigoku, Blood-Red-Coloured Waters

Depart the pier for the short drive to Chinoike Jigoku, one of eight jigokus in Beppu. Due to their spewing gas, thermal mud, and boiling water for over 1,000 years, the hot springs in this area have come to be known as jigokus (hells) in Japanese. Japan’s oldest natural hot spring, Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) is so-named for its deep-red, bloody-looking waters, the result of their high concentration of iron oxide, magnesium oxide, and other minerals. Chinoike Jigoku’s extremely high water temperature does not make it suitable for a full-body bath, but you can enjoy the scenic views and vegetation surrounding the hot spring.

Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), Cobalt-Blue Pond, Orange-Coloured Pond, Foot Spa, Feet Soak, Shopping

Next, re-board your coach and head to another hot spring named Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell), due to its amazing, cobalt-blue boiling waters. During your visit, marvel the exuberant vegetation in the garden around the blue pond, and a smaller, orange-coloured one. There is also another pond with clear waters full of lotus flowers from August to early-November; their enormous leaves can support the weight of a small child. There is a small foot spa at Umi Jigoku, and you may opt to soak your feet in its hot springs, if desired. Leaving Umi Jigoku, re-board your coach and transfer to the nearby Myoban Yunosato (Hot Spring Village).

Myoban Yunosato (Hot Spring Village), Sulphur Springs, Bath Salt Processing, Shopping

Onsen hot spring waters have different mineral components. At Yunosato, see the cloudy-coloured sulphur springs, a mineral renowned for its power to remove sebum and dirt from the skin. Myoban Yunosato is famous not only due to its healing waters, but also for its Yunohana bath salt, the production of which dates from the Edo Period and is considered an Intangible National Folk-Cultural Asset. You can get an up-close glimpse of the bath salt manufacturing process inside the yunohana-goya (small hut). Some free time is made available at each stop for shopping. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.  

(Please acknowledge the 'Important Note' section reported down below)

Indulge your senses with the hot spring waters of a famous Japanese onsen during this immersive, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Beppu, Kannawa Village, Guided Stroll, Beautiful Hot Springs Landscapes, Shopping

Depart the pier for the short drive to renowned Japanese onsen (hot spring) village of Kannawa. Upon arrival, take a guided stroll through this beautiful village with its exquisite, hot springs landscapes. Along the way, learn how locals utilise hot springs waters to steam or boil a variety of foods, including the extremely popular onsen tamago (egg boiled in hot spring water) and steamed pudding. Following a shopping stop to browse for souvenirs, re-board your coach and head to the onsen venue.

Japanese Onsen Venue, Foot-Steaming, Sand Bath, Hot Springs Soak

Upon arrival at the onsen venue, your visit begins with a foot-steaming experience. This relaxation therapy is like a hot, spring water foot bath, but utilises steam instead of water. Next, proceed for a sand bath, another unique relaxation therapy utilising warm sand. Afterward, receive your onsen-bathing instructions before enjoying a peaceful and relaxing time in the onsen (hot springs). Since ancient times, the onsen bath has been thought to be a soothing and effective method of helping to promote good general health and well-being, stress-relief, faster injury recovery, treat respiratory ailments, and more.

Steamed Pudding Snack, Shopping

Following your relaxing and rejuvenating onsen bath, enjoy a snack of tasty, steamed pudding, a sweet local speciality in which steam is utilised in its preparation. Before you leave, stop by the gift shoppe to browse for a souvenir of your visit. At the conclusion of your tour, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Important Note:

Authentic Japanese onsen (hot springs) baths are enjoyed naked; swimsuits are not permitted. To enhance your onsen experience and out of respect to the other bathers, participating guests are required to follow the traditional customs of a Japanese onsen bath. Prepare for the onsen by taking a Japanese bath before entering the hot springs. Sit on a small stool, and scrub yourself with soap and water to ensure that you are very clean. When it is time to enter the onsen, you are permitted to bring a small towel into the bathing area to enhance your privacy whilst out of the water. Traditionally, this towel is placed on your head upon entering the onsen, but it is acceptable to set it on a rock beside the bath as well. Once you have entered the bath, the towel must be kept outside of the water. Never submerge your towel in the onsen or wring it out, as this is considered rude. An onsen is a quiet place for relaxation and contemplation, so it is important to enter the hot spring slowly, without any splashing, and avoid conversation. A bath towel, face towel, shampoo, conditioner, body soap, a hair dryer, and storage are provided at the hot springs’ location. The relaxing room after the onsen experience is Japanese-style (seated on tatami mats on the floor). The onsen bathing area is not exclusive to Silversea guests. The hot springs are separated for female-only and male-only. Guests who have consumed alcoholic beverages are not permitted inside the onsen. Guests with tattoos are not permitted inside the onsen. Guests who are menstruating are not permitted inside the onsen. Photography/videography is not permitted inside the onsen, its changing rooms, and/or bathrooms. Guests are advised not to bring valuables, or wear accessories, as the colour may change due to the water from the hot springs.

Explore Beppu at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Beppu at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Beppu at your leisure during your full-day (8-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your driver and English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Beppu at your leisure during your half-day (4-hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore a splendid collection of stone Buddhas and the ruins of a famous castle during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Beppu, Usuki City, Usuki Stone Buddhas, Over 60 Buddha Images

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to the Usuki Stone Buddhas, the most famous and largest such collection in Japan. This splendid site features more than 60 images of Buddha, each with its own unique expression. They were believed to have been made between the Heian Period (797 A.D.-1192 A.D) and the Kamakura Period (1192 A.D.-1333 A.D.). These figures of Buddha, called Magaibutsu, are carved into the rock and cannot be moved. The Magaibutsu were the first historical artefacts in Kyushu to be designated as National Treasures. They have also garnered international recognition due to their beauty and the remarkable carving techniques utilised in their creation despite the solid rock.

Usuki Castle Ruins, Samurai District, Free Time

Next, re-board your coach and head to the eastern part of the city to visit the ruins of the Usuki Castle, which was built by Yoshishige Ootomo in 1562. The castle tower was destroyed in the early-Meiji Era. Now, the castle ruins, along with a few buildings and some stone walls, have become a park. Following your guided tour of the historical Samurai District, enjoy some free time to stroll around to further experience the Castle Ruins (on your own) and the nostalgic days of old. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.  

(Please acknowledge the 'Important Note' section reported down below)

Experience the hot springs village of Yufuin and an authentic Japanese onsen during this bespoke, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Beppu, Lake Kinrin, Spectacular Lake Views, Pristine, Bubbling Waters, Torii Gate

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Lake Kinrin. A natural lake blessed with spectacular views, Kinrin is particularly renowned for its pristine waters, which bubble up from the bottom of the lake in a combination of hot-and-cold springs. This phenomenon creates a floating mist over the surface of the lake on cold autumn and winter mornings. The Torii Gate emerging from the lake was moved here from the Bussanji Temple under the Shinbutsu Hanzen (Shinto and Buddhist Separation) Order back in the Meiji Period.

Yufuin Village, Mt. Yufu, Yunotsubo Kaido Street, Guided Tour, Free Time, Shopping

Next, re-board your coach and head to nearby Yufuin Village. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of Yunotsubo Kaido, a popular street that appears to stretch out to the very foot of Mt. Yufu. The street resembles an old Edo Town, and is filled with shops offering a variety of souvenirs and popular local specialities. Following your tour, some free time is made available for you to browse the local shoppes for souvenirs, handicrafts, or food and beverages at your own expense. Afterward, re-board your coach and head to the onsen venue.

Japanese Onsen Venue, Hot Springs Soak, Sagiridai Observatory, Yufuin Village & Mt. Yufu Views

Upon arrival at the onsen venue, receive your onsen-bathing instructions before enjoying a peaceful and relaxing time in the onsen (hot springs). Since ancient times, the onsen bath has been thought to be a soothing and effective method of helping to promote good general health and well-being, stress-relief, faster injury recovery, treat respiratory ailments, and more. Following your onsen experience, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier. En route, a photo stop is made at the Sagiridai Observatory for breath-taking panoramic views of the hot springs village of Yufuin and Mt. Yufu.

Important Note:

Authentic Japanese onsen (hot springs) baths are enjoyed naked; swimsuits are not permitted. To enhance your onsen experience and out of respect to the other bathers, participating guests are required to follow the traditional customs of a Japanese onsen bath. Prepare for the onsen by taking a Japanese bath before entering the hot springs. Sit on a small stool, and scrub yourself with soap and water to ensure that you are very clean. When it is time to enter the onsen, you are permitted to bring a small towel into the bathing area to enhance your privacy whilst out of the water. Traditionally, this towel is placed on your head upon entering the onsen, but it is acceptable to set it on a rock beside the bath as well. Once you have entered the bath, the towel must be kept outside of the water. Never submerge your towel in the onsen or wring it out, as this is considered rude. An onsen is a quiet place for relaxation and contemplation, so it is important to enter the hot spring slowly, without any splashing, and avoid conversation. A bath towel, face towel, shampoo, conditioner, body soap, a hair dryer, and storage are provided at the hot springs’ location. The relaxing room after the onsen experience is Japanese-style (seated on tatami mats on the floor). The onsen bathing area is not exclusive to Silversea guests. The hot springs are separated for female-only and male-only. Guests who have consumed alcoholic beverages are not permitted inside the onsen. Guests with tattoos are not permitted inside the onsen. Photography/videography is not permitted inside the onsen, its changing rooms, and/or bathrooms. Guests are advised not to bring valuables, or wear accessories, as the colour may change due to the water from the hot springs.