Oniyama Jigoku, known locally as “Crocodile Hell,” offers one of the most dramatic atmospheres among all the Beppu Hells. Instead of serene blue pools or bubbling mud, this site is defined by intense geothermal power and the presence of dozens of crocodiles that live in the constantly heated environment. The natural spring erupts from underground at 99.1°C, producing thick white steam that surrounds the emerald-green ponds and creates a mysterious fog where the crocodiles move in and out of view.

Oniyama Jigoku, or “Crocodile Hell,” stands out among the Beppu Hells for its combination of natural power and exotic wildlife. Unlike the more tranquil blue and white ponds nearby, this site is defined by intense geothermal activity and the striking presence of numerous crocodiles living in steam-warmed enclosures. Hot spring water erupts at 99.1°C, generating dense, swirling steam that blankets the grounds and gives the crocodile ponds a mysterious atmosphere.

The geothermal pressure here is exceptionally strong, with long-standing claims that the force is powerful enough to pull one and a half train cars. This strength made the site historically significant as the first place in Japan to use hot spring heat to raise tropical reptiles, beginning in 1923 during the Taisho era. With a stable warm environment, it became a successful breeding facility for roughly 70–80 crocodiles and alligators.

Its most legendary resident, “Ichiro,” was a massive saltwater crocodile brought here in 1923. He lived an extraordinary 73 years and reached a length of seven meters. Visitors can view his preserved taxidermy in the on-site museum, which highlights the scale of these remarkable animals. The main facility’s design resembles a Malaysian Sarawak longhouse, reflecting the tropical origins of the crocodiles first introduced a century ago.

A major highlight for visitors is the weekend feeding demonstration. On Saturday and Sunday at 10:00 AM, keepers throw meat into the enclosure, prompting the crocodiles to lunge upward with explosive bursts of power. The loud snap of jaws against water and bone creates an unforgettable moment that matches the hellish theme. Unlike some neighboring hells, Oniyama Jigoku does not offer a foot bath or any public bathing area; it is strictly a viewing attraction focused on geothermal energy and crocodile habitats.

To help travelers plan, it’s important to distinguish the seven official Hells included in the Jigoku Meguri Pass from other nearby attractions. The official Hells are:

• Umi Jigoku — cobalt-blue hot spring

• Chinoike Jigoku — red mineral pond

• Shiraike Jigoku — milky-white pond

• Kamado Jigoku — multi-stage hot springs

• Oniishibozu Jigoku — bubbling mud pools

• Oniyama Jigoku — Crocodile-breeding hot spring

• Tatsumaki Jigoku — natural erupting geyser

The nearby Yama Jigoku (Mountain Hell), while famous for animals kept in hot spring-heated environments, is a separate and non-official facility and is not included in the Jigoku Meguri Pass.

• From Beppu Station, take a bus to the Kannawa district, a ride of about 20–25 minutes.
• Drivers will find the route simple and well-marked, with parking available near the site.

Oniyama Jigoku is also only a few minutes’ walk from Kamado Jigoku and Umi Jigoku, making it ideal for a walking route through the major Hells.

• Arrive before 10:00 AM on weekends if you want to witness the crocodile feeding session, the most exciting highlight of the site.

• Move around the enclosures when taking photos, as the steam can be thick and may obscure views depending on the angle.

• Since Oniyama Jigoku does not offer a foot bath or onsen, visit Oniishibozu Jigoku nearby if you want a foot bath experience.

• Use the Jigoku Meguri Joint Pass if visiting more than two Hells—it provides excellent value for covering all seven official sites.

• Combine your visit with Kamado Jigoku and Umi Jigoku, which are within a few minutes' walking distance and easy to include in a single route. 

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:

• Open daily: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Open year-round.