“Explore six distinct geothermal zones, witness dramatic smoke experiments, and taste food cooked directly by natural hot spring steam.”
Kamado Jigoku is celebrated as the most diverse of Beppu’s hot springs. Its nickname, the "Department Store of Hells," reflects the variety of geothermal phenomena it houses—from boiling mud to cobalt-blue water. The name "Kamado" comes from a Kamakura-period legend, in which steam from the spring was used to cook rice offerings for the guardian deity, Kamado Hachiman. A vibrant red Oni statue atop a traditional cooking pot in 2nd Chome commemorates this tradition, while another demon statue in 3rd Chome points the way to the main ponds.
Visitors can enjoy interactive culinary and wellness experiences, such as tasting onsen tamago (mineral-rich hard-boiled eggs), steamed pork buns, and soy sauce pudding cooked by natural geothermal steam. The site also features steam inhalation vents for skin health, hand and foot baths, and a drinking station with slightly salty 80°C water believed to aid digestion. The 5th Chome pond changes color from blue to green depending on the season and light, a rare geological trait distinct from the permanent blue of Umi Jigoku.
Part of the Official 7 Hells (Jigoku Meguri Set):
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Umi Jigoku: Cobalt-blue "Sea Hell," the largest hell with surrounding gardens.
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Chinoike Jigoku: Red mineral "Blood Pond Hell," Japan's oldest natural hell.
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Shiraike Jigoku: Milky-white "White Pond Hell," also featuring an aquarium.
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Kamado Jigoku: The variety pack of hot springs ("Cooking Pot Hell").
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Oniishibozu Jigoku: Bubbling mud "Monk's Head Hell."
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Oniyama Jigoku: "Crocodile Hell," famous for breeding crocodiles using hot spring warmth.
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Tatsumaki Jigoku: A natural rhythmic geyser ("Tornado Hell").
Note: Yama Jigoku is no longer part of the official combo ticket. It remains a private attraction with a mini-zoo (capybaras, hippos, flamingos) and requires a separate ticket.
How to Get There
- From JR Beppu Station, take Kamenoi Bus #5, #7, or #9 to the Kannawa bus terminal, then walk 5 minutes to Kamado Jigoku.
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking,
- Be cautious around hot water and steam vents, and
- Bring a camera for the smoke experiment.
- Staff often entertain in multiple languages, creating a lively experience.
Admission Fee:
- Single Entry: 500 JPY (Adults) / 250 JPY (Children).
- Jigoku Meguri Pass: 2,400 JPY (Adults) / 1,200 JPY (Children).
Note: The Jigoku Meguri Pass allows one-time entry to all 7 official “Hells” and is valid for two consecutive days.
Opening Time:
- 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily