The Japanese city of Beppu is blessed with nearly 2,800 hot springs which makes the city the second largest source of thermal waters after Yellowstone National Park in the USA. Eight most distinguished ponds are called '8 hells of Beppu'. This refers to the ancient Japanese belief according to which the hell is structured into eight layers.
In fact, Chinoike Jigoku or Blood Pond Hell has become a sheer inferno to many Japanese. Not that long ago, the sinners or rather the unfortunate were sentenced to tortures in that waterbasin. They were meant to boil to death. Knowing this fact, the pond looks even more dreadful, bloody indeed. However, it's not blood that makes it look that red, this colour is attributed to iron oxide.
Luckily, instead of boiling humans, locals nowadays shifted to soybeans. Every February Onishi people gather for Onishi Setsubun festival and perform a rite of throwing soybeans into the demons inhabiting the pond. That is supposed to clear their homes from evil spirits.
Blood Pond Hell is one of the oldest hot springs in Beppu, dating back to nearly 700 AD. It's the most popular among the nine hells, owing to its color and dark history. Other 'hells' are less hellish in appearance, though unique in color and structure. There are blue, green, turquoise and grey muddy ponds. Still, the colour doesn't mean they are cooler—some of them hit 150 °C.
You may even spot some wildlife around acclimated to the heat, which is actually hardly bearable in summertime. Therefore, if you plan a visit to eight hells, choose the period between autumn and spring.
Practical info
What are some features of the eight hells of Beppu that make them unique and famous?
The eight hells of Beppu are famous for their distinct characteristics, such as colors, structures, and mineral content. Visitors can see hot springs with blue, turquoise, grey, or blood-red water. The pools are located in volcanic Beppu, which makes them a rare natural phenomenon. Each pond has its own unique features that make it stand out from the rest, making the Beppu hells a must-see destination for tourists and nature lovers. Show more
What is the origin story of Blood Pond Hell, and why is it so popular with tourists?
Blood Pond Hell is ancient, dating almost 700 years ago, making it the oldest hot spring in Beppu. The pool was once used to boil sinners in blood and dirt. Today, the pool has a deep red color from the presence of iron oxide, which only adds to its beauty and eeriness. Blood Pond Hell is a popular attraction, especially during the Onishi Setsubun festival, where locals throw soybeans to exorcise the demons inhabiting the pool. Show more
Is it safe to come close to Blood Pond Hell, and what temperature does its water reach?
Blood Pond Hell is a dangerous pool, as its water temperature reaches 78 to 99 degrees Celsius. Visitors are not allowed to touch or bathe in this pool, but they can watch it from designated areas. The pool's high temperature is a result of the intense volcanic activity in the Beppu region, which is also what makes the Beppu hells unique and exciting to explore. Show more
What is the meaning behind the Onishi Setsubun festival, and what role does Blood Pond Hell play in it?
The Onishi Setsubun festival is an ancient Japanese ritual performed in February that is meant to rid evil spirits and misfortune from homes. Locals throw soybeans to the demons inhabiting Blood Pond Hell, which is the focal point of the festival. The festival has a rich history dating back to the Edo period and is just one of the many cultural traditions and festivals celebrated in the Beppu region. Show more
When is the optimal time of year to visit the eight hells of Beppu, and why should visitors avoid summers?
The Beppu hells are best visited between September and May, as the summer months can be unbearable due to high temperatures and humidity. Despite this, Beppu is a year-round attraction as a resort town that boasts onsen hells, a famous food culture, and a unique atmosphere. Tourists should plan to visit in the fall or winter to avoid the crowds and enjoy the Beppu experience to its fullest. Show more
