The 12 Top Spa & Hot Springs Experiences In Beppu: Which Is Best?

Beppu, located on Japan’s southern Kyushu island, is famous for one thing: hot springs and onsen culture that’s woven into the fabric of daily life. Unlike some places that just have a handful of hot springs, Beppu offers an astonishing variety—steam rising from the streets, colorful “hells,” and communal baths that have been around for centuries. We love how these experiences reveal the city’s authentic side, especially when you step away from the crowds to explore local artisans, hidden neighborhoods, and traditional crafts. For example, the Become a local! A Walking Tour of Beppu’s Arts, Crafts & Onsen offers a rare glimpse into Beppu’s creative community, mixing art, culture, and hot springs in a personal way.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded experience—whether a quick cultural jaunt or a full-blown onsen immersion—Beppu has options that fit a variety of budgets and interests. Below, we’ve compiled the 12 best spa and hot springs experiences to help you find your perfect match.

Quick Overview

Our list covers everything from small-group cultural walking tours that highlight local artisans (Tour #1) to private onsen excursions with stunning geothermal sights (Tour #3). We’ve included hands-on workshops like dyeing fabrics with hot spring water (Tour #4), scenic nature trips that combine mountain views with hot springs (Tour #5), and culinary experiences such as steaming dishes with geothermal heat (Tour #7). For those craving ultimate relaxation, a sound bath meditation or private onsen experience offers serenity beyond the ordinary (Tour #8). Each provides a unique perspective on Beppu’s famous geothermal culture.

1. Become a local! A Walking Tour of Beppu’s Arts, Crafts & Onsen

For those who prefer to see more than just steaming pools, this small-group walking tour dives into Beppu’s creative side. Over about 2 to 2.5 hours, you’ll explore downtown Beppu, visiting a bamboo craft factory established in 1908—where artisans meticulously craft with local bamboo (Stop 2). The guide shares insightful stories about the city’s history and culture, making it perfect for travelers wanting an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. Highlights include interacting with local artists, exploring a century-old Japanese house, and visiting a lively market. The reviews praise the guide’s friendly, informative approach and the chance to see places travelers wouldn’t find alone. This tour suits those interested in local culture, arts, and hidden spots. It’s a great value at just over $64 per person.

Bottom line: If you want a relaxed, cultural walk that reveals Beppu’s art scene and traditions, this tour hits the mark.

2. Become a local! A Walking Tour of Arts, Crafts & Onsen Culture

This slightly shorter version of the previous tour offers a focused look at the artistic and onsen lifestyle in Beppu. For $61, you’ll visit the Nagai bamboo factory, where artisans have been working since 1908—here, you can observe their craftsmanship and purchase souvenirs (Stop 1). You’ll also meet artists living in the Kiyoshima Apartment, which adds a personal touch to the creative scene (Stop 2). The tour wraps up at Space Beppu, a community space displaying local artwork and historical exhibits. This is ideal if you want a deep dive into Beppu’s artistic community without a full day commitment. Reviewers often mention how this tour feels intimate and reveals hidden facets of the city.

Bottom line: Perfect for art lovers and those who want an authentic, casual introduction to Beppu’s local scene.

3. Hot Spring Beppu Onsen with Blue Hell cozy Tour

This 3-hour private tour offers a deep look into Beppu’s famous “Hells” (Jigoku)—especially Umi Jigoku, with its stunning cobalt-blue waters. The tour kicks off at Umi Jigoku, where you can take in the spectacular geothermal pools surrounded by a tranquil Japanese garden. From there, you’ll stroll through Kannawa Onsen, a historic district filled with steam and traditional baths. The highlight is a visit to a steam bath experience, where you can enjoy a rare steam bath in a traditional setting (Stop 2). You also get to try “Jigoku Mushi”, a steaming food method that uses natural hot spring steam—a delicious way to see geothermal energy in action. This tour has a personalized touch, and reviews mention how attentive guides make the experience memorable.

Value for money is high, with entry fees not included for some stops, but the experience of seeing Beppu’s geothermal extremes makes it worthwhile. Ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious, private experience with a focus on natural wonders.

Bottom line: Best for those wanting an intimate, scenic, and authentic hot spring experience with insider access.

4. Hot Spring Dyeing Workshop in Beppu

If you’re curious about how hot springs influence local crafts, this workshop lets you create natural fabric dyes using Beppu’s geothermal water. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll learn how real Beppu hot spring water creates vibrant, one-of-a-kind colors you can’t replicate elsewhere. This activity isn’t just about dyeing; it’s about feeling connected to Beppu’s hot spring culture through creativity. The experience is suitable for solo travelers, friends, or families, offering a meaningful souvenir to take home—your own hand-dyed cloth. The reviews mention that the instructor’s explanations are engaging and that participants love the unique colors achieved. Costing around $72, it offers excellent value for a hands-on cultural activity.

Bottom line: Perfect for creative travelers who want a tangible, personal memory from Beppu’s geothermal waters.

5. Discover Beppu and Yufuin Nature and Onsen Trip

This 6-hour guided trip combines geothermal sightseeing with mountain scenery, making it ideal for nature lovers. The tour begins at Umi Jigoku and Oniishi Jigoku—two of Beppu’s most iconic hot springs—before riding the Beppu Ropeway up Mt. Tsurumi, where panoramic views stretch across Beppu Bay and beyond. After descending, you’ll visit Yufuin, a charming town filled with traditional inns, cafes, and art shops. You’ll receive a custom map for self-guided exploration, making this flexible and immersive. The highlight is the scenic ride and the chance to see the blue “Sea Hell” and bubbling mud at Oniishi Jigoku. Reviewers love how this tour feels well-organized and mindful of time constraints, especially if you’re traveling from a cruise.

Bottom line: Great for active travelers wanting a mix of geothermal wonders and mountain vistas with some free time to explore Yufuin.

6. A private tour of Beppu, the world’s best hot spring town

This customizable private experience offers tailored exploration of Beppu’s top hot spring spots, shrines, and photo-rich locations. For about $86 per person, you’ll enjoy a personal guide who takes you beyond the popular sites. The tour includes a private hot spring soak in a traditional bath and visits to local markets, giving a well-rounded look at both cultural and geothermal highlights. The flexibility allows you to focus on your interests—whether that’s historic sites, scenic photo spots, or local cuisine. The reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and ability to craft a personalized day. It’s best suited for travelers valuing privacy and customization.

Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a bespoke, relaxed day exploring Beppu’s best spots at their own pace.

7. Beppu Hot Springs Bath and Make Jigokumushi Dish in Kyushu Japan

This 4-hour culinary and hot spring experience combines a hot spring bath with a cooking class. You’ll visit local supermarkets to pick ingredients, then learn how to prepare Jigokumushi, a steaming dish cooked directly with geothermal heat. The highlight is steaming your own food and soaking in a hot spring bath, making it a multi-sensory experience that appeals to foodies and relaxation seekers alike. The reviews mention the quality of the steam cooking and how fun it is to make your own meal using natural heat. Priced at about $157, this experience offers good value for a memorable hands-on activity that blends culinary arts with geothermal culture.

Bottom line: Best for food lovers who want a full sensory immersion in Beppu’s steaming traditions.

8. Private Sound bath Meditation in ocean view house and Beppu onsen

If you’re after serenity and relaxation, this private sound bath offers a peaceful session with live music and vibrations that resonate through your body. Lasting about two hours, the experience begins with guided meditation and continues with immersive sounds designed to soothe stress. While not a traditional onsen, this calming activity complements Beppu’s geothermal vibe by focusing on mental well-being. Since reviews are limited, it’s best suited for those wanting a unique, meditative escape rather than traditional hot spring bathing. It costs around $50, making it an accessible way to unwind.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a mindful, calming experience to balance their geothermal adventures.

9. Oita Go Kart Adventure to Kamado Shrine and Hot Spring Hell

This adventure adds a fun twist: zooming around Beppu in a modern electric Monster Kart. For $129, you explore famous spots like Kamado Shrine and the Hot Spring “Hell” zones, all while dressed in a traditional samurai outfit. The guided storytelling makes it both playful and informative, especially if you want to combine sightseeing with a little adrenaline. Reviews are sparse but emphasize the unique experience of driving through the city streets in style. Not for those with limited mobility, but perfect for adventure-minded travelers who want to see the sights in a memorable way.

Bottom line: Great for active visitors who want a lively, memorable way to explore Beppu’s geothermal sites.

10. Beppu Private Tour – Onsen Experience in nature

This 4-hour private tour takes you into Yunohana-goya huts and the Myoban Onsen area, known for its sulfur-rich waters and scenic mountain views. You’ll relax in an outdoor Yunohana bath and make Jigokumushi steamed eggs and pudding, all while immersed in nature. The highlight is experiencing Beppu’s hot spring culture amid stunning natural surroundings, with opportunities for photo-taking and soaking in mineral-rich waters. This tour is ideal for those wanting a tranquil, scenic soak combined with local traditions. Reviewers mention the authenticity and peaceful atmosphere, making it great for relaxed travelers.

Bottom line: Perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful, scenic hot spring experience away from busy districts.

11. Beppu Kannawa Onsen Area Walking Tour

This 2.5-hour guided walk through Kannawa Onsen showcases one of Japan’s most historic hot spring districts. The guide shares stories about how the geothermal energy shaped the town and introduces visitors to traditional bathhouses and steam vents. Walking along narrow alleys, you’ll see steaming streets and learn about local legends, creating an immersive experience. The tour appeals to travelers interested in local onsen culture, history, and authentic streetscapes. While reviews are limited, previous participants appreciate the informative narration and the chance to go behind the scenes of a real onsen town.

Bottom line: A solid choice for those wanting a cultural and historical tour of one of Beppu’s most iconic districts.

12. Yunosato Onsen and Umi Jigoku Tour from Beppu Port

This private 4-hour tour is designed specifically for cruise passengers arriving at Beppu Port. It combines visits to Yunosato, famed for its thatched “yunohana” huts, with two of the city’s most spectacular hot springs—Umi Jigoku and Kamado Jigoku. The tour includes geothermal sightseeing, photo stops, and a soak in a traditional bath. It’s a convenient, comprehensive way to experience Beppu’s geothermal highlights in a limited time, with reviews noting the smooth organization and personalized attention. Best suited for short-stay visitors who want a quick yet rich introduction to Beppu’s geothermal wonders.

Bottom line: Excellent for cruise travelers wanting an efficient, memorable hot spring tour.

How to Choose Your Beppu Spa & Hot Springs Experience

Consider your budget, interests, and time availability. If you want an authentic cultural walk, Tours #1 and #2 are excellent choices. For a luxury private experience exploring the “Hells,” Tours #3 and #12 deliver personalized sightseeing. Foodies should look at the Jigokumushi cooking experience (Tour #7), while those seeking relaxation and mental calm might prefer the sound bath (Tour #8). For a scenic adventure, the Yufuin & mountain trip (Tour #5) combines nature and geothermal sites beautifully.

Booking early is wise, especially for popular private options or workshops, and consider combining activities if your schedule allows. Beppu’s best experiences are diverse—whether you’re after cultural insight, nature, culinary delights, or pure relaxation, there’s a perfect match waiting.

In summary, Beppu’s hot springs and geothermal culture offer a rich variety of experiences suited for every traveler. From cultural tours that reveal local crafts and art, to scenic trips into the mountains, and hands-on workshops that create lasting memories, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Japan’s onsen capital. We recommend choosing a mix that matches your interests—history, relaxation, adventure, or culture. Booking early ensures you’ll secure the best times and guides, so don’t wait to plan your geothermal escape in Beppu.