The 'blood pond' hell, Chinoike Jigoku, gets its red color from high concentrations of iron oxide and magnesium in the water.
Shiraike Jigoku contains a white, milky-colored water that turns clear once it cools, caused by calcium, magnesium, and boric acid deposits.
Tatsumaki Jigoku is an active geyser that erupts at somewhat predictable intervals, launching boiling water into the air.
The steam from these springs is used for 'Jigoku Mushi' cooking, a traditional method of steaming vegetables and eggs.
Oni-ishibouzu Jigoku features bubbling grey mud pits that look like the shaved heads of monks, earning its name.
Kamado Jigoku, or 'Cooking Pot Hell,' was historically used to steam food offerings for the local Hachiman Kamado Shrine.
The thermal energy from the Jigoku is piped throughout the Kannawa district to provide residential heating and public foot baths.
The temperature of the water in some pools is hot enough to hard-boil eggs within minutes.
Beppu Jigoku, commonly known as the 'Hells of Beppu,' is a collection of eight geothermal hot springs located primarily in the Kannawa district. These pools are not for bathing due to extreme temperatures reaching up to 99.5 degrees Celsius and varying mineral compositions. Each of the seven accessible 'hells' features a unique appearance, such as the cobalt blue Umi Jigoku and the blood-red Chinoike Jigoku. The springs emit steam plumes that are a hallmark of the city's volcanic landscape. Visitors travel between these sites to view the distinct geothermal phenomena including geysers and mud pots. The complex is maintained for sightseeing purposes rather than therapeutic immersion. These springs are classified as National Places of Scenic Beauty in Japan.
The lily pad pond area at Umi Jigoku offers a high-contrast view of the bright blue water against the surrounding greenery.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the sites are spread out and require moving between multiple locations.
Bring a small towel if you intend to use the complimentary foot baths available at several of the 'hells'.
Purchase a combined entry pass if you plan to visit multiple individual pools to save on total admission costs.
Trying to swim or touch the water in the main viewing pools, which are strictly off-limits for human contact.
Do not touch the water in the pools as it is at near-boiling temperatures; respect all roped-off areas.
