Exploring Beppu by Campervan: Jigoku Meguri & Steam Cooking

Beppu is Japan's undisputed hot spring capital, producing more hot spring water than anywhere else in the country. A 2.5-hour drive from Fukuoka, you'll know you've arrived when you see plumes of steam rising from the city streets against the backdrop of the bay.

The Campervan Advantage in Beppu

While Beppu has buses, they are often crowded and infrequent. A campervan allows you to seamlessly hop between the different "Hells" and hillside hot springs without waiting in the heat.

Must-Do Experiences

1. The Hells of Beppu (Jigoku Meguri)

A collection of seven spectacular hot springs for viewing rather than bathing, including the cobalt blue "Sea Hell" and the blood-red "Blood Pond Hell". Parking: Each "Hell" has its own free parking lot. The lots at Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) and Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) are the largest and easiest for campervans to navigate.

2. Jigoku-Mushi (Steam Cooking)

You cannot leave Beppu without trying Jigoku-mushi at the Jigokumushi Kobo Kannawa. You rent a steaming vat powered by natural geothermal steam to cook local vegetables, seafood, and meats. It is incredibly healthy and delicious.

3. Hyotan Onsen

One of the only hot springs in Japan awarded three Michelin stars. It features sand baths, waterfall baths, and spacious open-air baths. They have a dedicated, large parking lot suitable for campervans.

Driving & Overnight Tips

• Route from Fukuoka: Take the Kyushu Expressway connecting to the Oita Expressway, getting off at the Beppu IC.
• Road Warning: Beppu's older neighborhoods, particularly around Kannawa, have very narrow, winding streets built before cars existed. Stick to the main roads and avoid taking the residential alleys.
• Overnight Stays: Michi-no-Eki Beppu Wan (Beppu Bay) is an excellent rest area offering spectacular sunrise views over the ocean, perfect for waking up in your rooftop tent.