Umi Jigoku

Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) is one of the most famous natural hot spring phenomena in Beppu Onsen, Oita Prefecture. Places where naturally gushing hot spring sources appear are collectively called “hells”, and among them Umi Jigoku is designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty. It is always included in the classic “Beppu Jigoku Meguri” tour, making it ideal to visit as part of a set. Umi Jigoku is said to have formed around 1,200 years ago and features steaming water that glows a striking cobalt blue. The vivid blue color comes from iron sulfate dissolved in the hot spring, giving it the appearance of a blue sea, which inspired its name. In the neighboring pond, giant water lilies (Oni-basu) are cultivated, and during summer their leaves grow large enough for children to sit on. Hot spring eggs steamed in baskets using the geothermal steam of Umi Jigoku are very popular, while “Jigoku-mushi” pudding steamed by hell steam is especially popular among female visitors. As the largest of the hells, Umi Jigoku is also the most popular spot on the Jigoku Meguri route. Its iconic blue color is often used as the motif for bath salts. Access to Umi Jigoku is easy: from JR Beppu Station West Exit, take a Kamenoi Bus and get off at “Umi Jigoku-mae,” then walk 1 minute.