Hey there, fellow wanderlusters! So, last weekend I decided to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and made a beeline for Beppu, the hot spring capital of Japan. You know, sometimes the concrete jungle just gets too much, and you need a little R&R. And let me tell you, Beppu did not disappoint!
The Journey to Beppu
So, picture this: I hopped on a plane from Haneda to Oita Airport. The flight was swift, but the anticipation was even swifter—if that’s even a phrase! Anyway, from the airport, I took a bus straight to Beppu. The scenery was lush and green, a total 180 from the skyscrapers I left behind. As I got closer, I could almost smell the sulfur in the air. Now, some folks might not be fans of that eggy aroma, but to me, it was like the smell of adventure.
First Impressions
Once I arrived, I dropped my bags at a quaint little ryokan. The owner’s hospitality was as warm as the onsen waters themselves. She handed me a yukata, and I felt like a character straight out of a J-drama. After settling in, I wandered around the town, which was a delightful mix of traditional and modern. Think ancient temples nestled between quirky cafes.
The Onsen Experience
Now, let’s get to the main event—the hot springs! Beppu is famous for its ‘hells’ or jigoku, but don’t let the name fool you. These are heavenly! My first stop was the Beppu Beach Sand Bath. Here, you get buried in warm sand, heated by natural steam. It’s like being a human onsen bun, and I mean that in the best possible way. I could feel my stress melting away, grain by grain.
Next, I visited the Umi-Jigoku, a hot spring with striking cobalt blue water. It was stunning, but here’s a tip: don’t try to dip your toes in. It’s called ‘hell’ for a reason, folks. But just looking at it was a feast for the eyes. And yes, I took way too many photos. #NoRegrets.
Food and Fun
After soaking (and snapping) my fill, it was time to tackle the food scene. Beppu is known for its steam-cooked cuisine. I tried a dish called jigoku mushi, where seafood and veggies are steamed in the hot spring’s vapor. The taste? Absolute heaven. It was a culinary hug, warming me from the inside out.
Final Thoughts
Of course, not everything was perfect. Some of the more popular spots were crowded, and at one point I lost my way—thanks, Google Maps. But hey, getting lost is just part of the adventure, right?
So, if you’re ever feeling overwhelmed by city life, or just need a change of scenery, pack your bags and head to Beppu. Whether you want to soak in healing waters, feast on unique cuisine, or simply take in the breathtaking views, Beppu’s got something for everyone. Now, go enjoy those hot springs and let your stress float away like steam into the sky!
Until next time, happy travels!
