Relax and unwind in Japan’s most famous hot springs town
Japan’s location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where several tectonic plates collide, make it a hotbed for volcanic activity—and a beautiful place to find relaxation and rejuvenation in naturally occurring hot springs. The town of Beppu, on the southern Japanese island of Kyushi, is one of the best places to enjoy the traditional Japanese hot springs experience. This small town has more than 3,000 hot springs that produce more hot spring water than any other destination in the country.
During a visit to Beppu, you’ll find hot springs to soak in, dramatic and colorful springs you’ll have to see to believe, and a handful of other attractions you’ll want to experience. Here’s what you need to know to have a relaxing and enjoyable visit to Beppu.
Visiting hot springs, called “onsen” in Japanese, is rooted in centuries of tradition. In Japanese culture, onsens are highly regarded for their therapeutic benefits—the rich mineral content in the water is said to heal a wide range of ailments. They’re also valued for their communal atmosphere where individuals can unwind and connect while surrounded by nature.
If you plan on visiting a traditional Japanese onsen during your visit, there are a few things you should know. First, most onsens are separated by gender. Visitors are expected to wash thoroughly before entering the springs. No swimsuits are allowed, and many locations don’t allow visitors with tattoos. Visitors with long hair should tie their hair up and keep it out of the water. Most importantly, the hot springs are for relaxing, not for swimming or washing.
No trip to Beppu is complete without going for a soak in one of the town’s famous hot springs. Here are a few of the most popular options:
With temperatures that often exceed 200 degrees Fahrenheit, Beppu’s “hells,” called “jigoku” in Japanese, are a collection of seven uniquely colorful hot springs for viewing, not bathing, that you won’t want to miss the chance to see.
Once you’ve had your fill of hot springs, there are plenty of other activities to fill your day in Beppu. For panoramic views, take the Beppu Ropeway to the top of Mount Tsurumi. If you’re visiting in spring, visit Beppu Park to see the cherry blossoms. Finish your day with a meal at a traditional restaurant, where you can try jigokumushi, traditional dishes that are cooked with steam from the nearby hot springs.
Natural beauty and opportunities for relaxation abound in Beppu, and across Japan, and the best way to experience it for yourself is on an ultra-luxury Seabourn cruise. Let Seabourn take you on a journey to the most storied and stunning destinations in Japan.
Consider these upcoming voyages:
129-Day Ring Of Fire: Hidden Gems
DEPARTS: Los Angeles, California, US
ARRIVES: Vancouver, B.C., CA
Jan 6, 2026
from $84,999*
Explore Itinerary*Per Person, USD. Taxes and Fees are included. Additional terms apply.
10-Day World Cruise: Jewels Of Japan
DEPARTS: Hong Kong, China
ARRIVES: Busan (Pusan), South Korea
Apr 4, 2026
from $6,299*
Explore Itinerary*Per Person, USD. Taxes and Fees are included. Additional terms apply.
20-Day World Cruise: Spring Circumnavigation Of Japan
DEPARTS: Hong Kong, China
ARRIVES: Tokyo, Japan
Apr 4, 2026
from $11,969*
Explore Itinerary*Per Person, USD. Taxes and Fees are included. Additional terms apply.
Consider these upcoming voyages:
129-Day Ring Of Fire: Hidden Gems
DEPARTS: Los Angeles, California, US
ARRIVES: Vancouver, B.C., CA
Jan 6, 2026
from $84,999*
Explore Itinerary*Per Person, USD. Taxes and Fees are included. Additional terms apply.
10-Day World Cruise: Jewels Of Japan
DEPARTS: Hong Kong, China
ARRIVES: Busan (Pusan), South Korea
Apr 4, 2026
from $6,299*
Explore Itinerary*Per Person, USD. Taxes and Fees are included. Additional terms apply.
20-Day World Cruise: Spring Circumnavigation Of Japan
DEPARTS: Hong Kong, China
ARRIVES: Tokyo, Japan
Apr 4, 2026
from $11,969*
Explore Itinerary*Per Person, USD. Taxes and Fees are included. Additional terms apply.