Hyotan Onsen

Hyotan Onsen is a bathing facility in Beppu Onsen, located in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture. It earned a three-star rating in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. Using 100% free-flowing hot spring water, its iconic gourd-shaped bath—built in 1922—still remains in use today. A signature feature is the Takiyu (waterfall hot spring): there are 18 streams in the men’s bath and 6 in the women’s bath, offering a training-like experience. With many options including hinoki baths and open-air baths, it is an excellent value onsen. The sand bath has no time limit, allowing visitors to enjoy it as long as they like. Private family baths are also available, making it popular with families. Inside the facility, there is also a jigoku-mushi kitchen where you can choose ingredients, steam them, and eat them, along with a restaurant, rest areas, and a courtyard. Onsen-steamed pudding is one of Hyotan Onsen’s specialties. Towels and yukata can be rented, and shampoo and hair dryers are provided. Access to Hyotan Onsen is by taking a bus from JR Beppu Station, getting off at “Jigokubaru / Hyotan Onsen,” then walking 3 minutes.