Beppu Hatto Onsen Guide
Soak Your Troubles Away: Exploring Beppu's Eight Famous Hot Springs Guide
Beppu Hatto refers to the eight major hot spring areas in Beppu, each with its own unique characteristics and mineral compositions. These areas offer a diverse range of bathing experiences, from traditional onsen to sand baths and steam baths. Exploring the Beppu Hatto is a must for any visitor seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in this onsen paradise. Beppu's geothermal activity has been known for centuries, and the hot springs have played a significant role in the region's history and culture. The eight hot spring areas – Beppu Onsen, Kannawa Onsen, Myoban Onsen, Shibaseki Onsen, Kamegawa Onsen, Hamawaki Onsen, Horita Onsen, and Kankaiji Onsen – each developed their own distinct character over time, attracting visitors seeking healing and relaxation. The hot springs were also important for local industries, such as agriculture and salt production. Each of the eight hot spring areas offers a variety of activities. You can visit public bathhouses, ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) with private onsen, and unique bathing experiences like sand baths (where you are buried in naturally heated sand) and steam baths. Explore the different areas to find the onsen that best suits your preferences. Kannawa Onsen is known for its traditional atmosphere and steam baths, while Myoban Onsen is famous for its milky blue waters and sulfurous smell. Don't forget to try "Onsen Tamago" (hot spring eggs), a local delicacy cooked in the hot spring waters.
Transportation
Each of the Hatto Onsen areas are accessible by bus from Beppu Station. Check local bus schedules for specific routes to each area. For example, to reach Kannawa Onsen, take the Kamenoi Bus number 5, 24 or 26 from Beppu Station.