Beppu Onsen

Eight onsen towns offer therapeutic options including milky waters and sand and mud

Known locally as Beppu Hatto, Beppu Onsen is a group of eight hot spring towns, each with their own special character. Each individual onsen resort has many modern and well-equipped hot spring baths as well as ryokan, where you can enjoy bathing facilities and stay as an overnight guest.

Beppu Onsen is a renowned destination for its therapeutic hot springs, offering visitors a chance to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate in the healing waters. With its eight distinct onsen towns, Beppu provides a variety of options for those seeking different types of experiences.

One of the unique features of Beppu Onsen is the diversity of its hot spring baths. From milky waters to sand and mud baths, visitors can choose from a range of therapeutic options. The milky waters are known for their soothing and moisturizing properties, while the sand and mud baths offer a unique and invigorating experience.

One of the must-visit onsen towns in Beppu is Myoban Onsen, which is famous for its muddy hot water baths. These baths are believed to have healing properties and are often used to treat various ailments such as rheumatism and fatigue. The mud is rich in minerals and helps to detoxify the body, leaving visitors feeling refreshed and revitalized.

For those looking for a different kind of experience, Beppu Beach Sand Bath is a popular attraction. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in naturally hot sand, which is said to have therapeutic benefits for the body. The warmth of the sand helps to relax muscles and improve circulation, leaving visitors feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Getting to Beppu Onsen is convenient, with Beppu Station serving as the main transportation hub. The station is accessible by limited express train from Hakata, Oita, Miyazaki, and Hitoyoshi, as well as neighboring areas. From Beppu Station, all eight onsen towns can be easily reached by public transport.

One of the closest onsen towns to Beppu Station is Ekimae-koto Onsen, which is just a two-minute walk away. This onsen resort is known for its nostalgic atmosphere, with its onsen and ryokan resembling a classic European villa. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot spring baths and experience traditional Japanese hospitality.

Another onsen town worth visiting is Shibaseki Onsen, which is located about a 30-minute bus ride from Beppu Station. This town offers a more secluded and tranquil setting, surrounded by nature and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and soak in the hot springs while taking in the scenic views.

The history of Beppu Onsen dates back to ancient times, with legends and stories passed down through generations. According to legend, the hot spring water in the area was first used by the gods Sukunabikona and Okuninushi in the 8th century. It is said that Sukunabikona fell ill during their visit to the area, and Okuninushi used the water from Beppu Onsen to cure him. This miraculous healing led to the establishment of Dogo Onsen, another famous hot spring resort in japan.

During the Kamakura Period, wounded samurai would bathe in Beppu Onsen to aid in their recovery. The healing properties of the hot springs were believed to speed up the healing process and relieve pain. Today, locals and tourists alike visit Beppu Onsen to experience the therapeutic benefits and enjoy a moment of relaxation.

One of the highlights of Beppu Onsen is the variety of hot spring water available. The water in each onsen town varies in composition and is believed to have different therapeutic effects. Some hot springs are high in chloride, which is said to be beneficial for conditions such as neuralgia and rheumatism. Others are high in sodium bicarbonate, which is known for its soothing and healing properties.

In addition to bathing in the hot springs, visitors can also try drinking the spring water at some onsen resorts. It is believed that drinking the water can help alleviate digestive issues and certain medical conditions such as gastroenteritis and gout. However, it is important to consult with the staff before drinking the water to ensure it is safe and suitable for consumption.

Beppu City is known for its abundance of hot springs, with close to 3,000 hot spring sources in the area. This represents more than 10% of all hot spring vents in Japan, making Beppu a true onsen hub. The city boasts the largest volume of hot spring water in the country, attracting visitors from all over the world.

When visiting Beppu Onsen, there are several onsen towns that should not be missed. Ekimae-koto Onsen, as mentioned earlier, offers a charming and nostalgic atmosphere, reminiscent of a bygone era. The onsen and ryokan in this town are designed in the style of a classic European villa, providing a unique and memorable experience.

Hamawaki Onsen is another must-visit onsen town in Beppu. Considered the origin point of the Beppu Onsen district, this town is steeped in history and tradition. Surrounded by rustic buildings and friendly locals, Hamawaki Onsen offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to experience the authentic charm of Beppu.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Beppu Onsen has something to offer as well. The famous mud bath and milky baths are popular attractions among visitors. The spacious open-air bath, although mixed in terms of gender, provides an opportunity to relax and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the white, smooth mud. The mud is believed to have exfoliating and rejuvenating properties, leaving the skin feeling soft and radiant.

In conclusion, Beppu Onsen is a destination that offers a unique and diverse range of hot spring experiences. With its eight onsen towns, visitors can choose from a variety of therapeutic options, including milky waters, sand and mud baths. The healing properties of the hot springs, combined with the serene atmosphere of the onsen towns, make Beppu a perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you are looking to unwind, heal, or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility, Beppu Onsen has something for everyone.

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