While Beppu lies just over the border in Oita prefecture, its fame as Japan’s greatest onsen town makes it a popular addition to a wider Kyushu itinerary that includes Miyazaki. Set on a bay ringed by volcanic mountains, Beppu produces a colossal volume of hot-spring water across eight districts, with columns of white steam constantly rising over the town. Its signature attraction is the ‘Hells of Beppu’ — a tour of vividly coloured hot springs, from a cobalt-blue pool to a blood-red pond, that are for viewing rather than bathing — alongside an incredible variety of baths to soak in: sand baths, mud baths, steam baths and countless open-air rotenburo. Given the distance from Miyazaki, Beppu is best enjoyed as part of a longer road trip or an overnight stay rather than a quick day trip; combined with Miyazaki’s own sights, it makes for a superb Kyushu onsen adventure.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Beppu, Oita (from Miyazaki) |
| Hours | Varies by attraction |
| Admission | Hells ticket; baths vary |
| Time needed | Full day or overnight |
| Best time | Year-round; steamy in winter |
What to See
- The colourful ‘Hells of Beppu’ hot springs.
- Sand baths, mud baths and steam baths.
- Countless open-air baths across eight districts.
- Steam rising over Japan’s greatest onsen town.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Takachiho Gorge en route.
- Pair with the Kirishima hot springs too.
- Read our Miyazaki overview .
Getting There
- By car: a longer drive north from Miyazaki into Oita.
- By train/bus: limited express services toward Beppu.
Tips
Note Beppu is in Oita and a fair distance from Miyazaki, so plan it as an overnight or part of a wider Kyushu road trip rather than a quick day trip. Buy the combined ticket for the Hells, try at least one unusual bath like the sand bath, and combine it with Takachiho on the route north through the mountains.
