Best Beppu Family Winter Activities for a Magical Trip
Beppu is a stunning coastal city located on the island of Kyushu in southern Japan. It is world-famous for having the highest yield of hot spring water in the country. Families love visiting this unique destination during the cold and crisp winter months of 2026. You will find an amazing variety of Beppu family winter activities to enjoy with your children.
Explore the Famous Hells of Beppu
The Hells of Beppu are a must-see attraction for every family traveling to Japan this winter. These are colorful hot springs meant for viewing rather than bathing due to their extreme heat. Each "hell" has a completely different theme and a very unique natural color for visitors. You can see the Beppu Jigoku Meguri winter displays during your 2026 vacation trip.
Umi Jigoku is the most famous of the seven hells in the Kannawa district of Beppu. It features a stunning cobalt blue pond of boiling water that creates massive clouds of steam. Families can enjoy a free foot bath near the exit to warm up their tired feet. There is also a large gift shop with local snacks and interesting souvenirs for the kids.
Chinoike Jigoku is known as the Blood Pond Hell because of its striking red clay water. This site is the oldest natural hot spring in Japan and looks incredible in the winter. The orange and red colors provide a beautiful contrast against the cold and grey winter sky. Admission for the full circuit of seven hells costs about 2,000 yen per adult visitor.
Oniyama Jigoku is another favorite spot for families because it is home to many large crocodiles. The reptiles stay warm all winter long thanks to the natural heat from the hot springs. Children will find the crocodile feeding sessions very exciting and educational during their afternoon visit. The steam from the vents looks even more dramatic when the air temperature is very low.
Winter Fun at Kijima Kogen Park
Kijima Kogen Park is a popular theme park nestled in the mountains just outside of Beppu. In the winter season, the park transforms into a festive wonderland with many seasonal activities. This is one of the best Beppu family winter activities for those who love being active. The park opens a massive outdoor ice skating rink that is perfect for all ages.
The ice rink provides plenty of space for beginners and experienced skaters to enjoy the ice. You can rent skates and safety gear directly at the park for a small additional fee. Staff members are always available to help children learn the basics of skating in a safe way. The mountain air is fresh and makes the skating experience feel very authentic and wintery.
Kijima Kogen is also famous for its massive wooden roller coaster called the Jupiter for brave riders. Many other rides remain open during the winter months for families to enjoy together throughout the day. There are also several indoor play areas where younger children can escape the cold for a while. A full day pass for the park usually costs around 4,500 yen for adults.
The park offers several restaurants that serve warm Japanese meals like ramen and hot curry dishes. You can find many vending machines selling hot drinks to keep you cozy between the different rides. The views of the surrounding snowy mountains from the Ferris wheel are truly spectacular in 2026. Plan to arrive early in the morning to make the most of your family day.
Marine Life at Umitago Aquarium
Umitago Aquarium is located right on the scenic coast between the cities of Beppu and Oita. It is an excellent place for families to spend a cold winter afternoon in a warm environment. The modern indoor exhibits allow you to see marine life without worrying about the winter weather outside. You can see many fascinating fish and sea creatures from the local waters of Kyushu.
Don't miss the Umitago Aquarium winter shows which are scheduled several times every single day. The walrus and dolphin performances are very interactive and often involve members of the excited audience. Kids will love watching the clever animals perform tricks and interact with their friendly trainers. The show stadium offers great views of the ocean while you sit in a comfortable seat.
The aquarium also features a large touch pool where children can feel different types of sea stars. This hands-on experience is very popular with younger visitors who want to learn about the ocean. The indoor tanks are beautifully lit and create a relaxing atmosphere for the whole family to enjoy. There is a large cafe on-site that serves kid-friendly meals and hot chocolate drinks.
Umitago is open daily from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM during the winter season in 2026. Tickets for adults cost 2,600 yen while children can enter for a much lower discounted price. The aquarium is easily accessible by taking a short bus ride from the main Beppu Station. It is a perfect rainy or cold day activity for families visiting the Beppu area.
Ride the Beppu Ropeway for Frosty Views
Take the Beppu Ropeway for a quick ten-minute journey to the top of Mount Tsurumi. This is a fantastic way to see the natural beauty of the region from high above. In the winter, the mountain often experiences a rare weather phenomenon called hoarfrost on the trees. This creates a stunning white landscape that looks like a scene from a winter fairy tale.
The view from the summit station provides a panoramic look at Beppu city and the blue ocean. You can walk along the cleared paths to find different observation points for your family photos. Be sure to check the Mount Tsurumi winter frost forecast before you plan your trip up. The frost is most beautiful on very cold and clear mornings during January and February.
The temperature at the top of the mountain is much colder than in the city center below. You must dress the whole family in warm layers and wear sturdy shoes for walking on snow. There is a small heated station at the top where you can buy hot canned coffee. The ropeway cabins are large and provide a smooth ride for parents with small children.
Round-trip tickets for the ropeway cost 1,800 yen for adults and 900 yen for elementary students. The base station has a large parking lot and a shop selling local Oita specialty goods. It is best to visit on a weekday to avoid the larger crowds of weekend tourists. Your kids will never forget the experience of standing above the clouds in the winter.
Relax in Family-Friendly Hot Springs
You cannot visit Beppu without experiencing the famous hot spring culture that defines this historic city. Many families worry about using public baths with their children for the first time in Japan. However, Beppu offers many private "family baths" that you can rent for an hour of privacy. Check our Beppu winter onsen guide to find the best locations for your specific needs.
Hyotan Onsen is a very famous public bath that is extremely welcoming to international families and tourists. It features many different types of pools including waterfall baths and a unique steam room. The facility also has a large sand bath where you are buried in warm volcanic sand. This is a fun and memorable experience that many children find very silly and enjoyable.
Many family-friendly hotels in Beppu have their own hot spring baths located right on the property. Staying at one of these hotels makes it very easy to bathe before bedtime with your kids. The mineral-rich water is very relaxing and helps everyone sleep better after a day of sightseeing. Always remember to wash your body thoroughly before entering the hot spring water with others.
Public baths usually cost between 500 and 1,000 yen per person for a single entry. Private family baths typically cost around 2,000 to 3,000 yen for a one-hour session for everyone. Most facilities provide soap and shampoo but you might need to bring your own small towels. Drinking plenty of water after your bath is important to stay hydrated in the dry winter.
Enjoy Local Winter Food and Markets
Winter is the perfect time to try the unique "Jigoku Mushi" cooking style found only in Beppu. This involves using the natural steam from the earth to cook various types of fresh food. You can visit the Beppu winter food markets to find local ingredients for your lunch. Families can rent a steaming pot and cook vegetables, eggs, and seafood themselves very easily.
The process of steaming your own food is a very interactive and educational activity for young children. They will love watching the thick steam rise from the stone ovens in the Kannawa district. The food tastes very fresh and healthy because no oil is used during the cooking process. Most steaming kits for a family lunch will cost between 2,000 and 4,000 yen total.
For dessert, you must try the famous Beppu pudding which is also cooked using the natural steam. It has a rich and creamy texture with a slightly bitter caramel sauce on the bottom. You can find this treat at many small shops and stalls throughout the hot spring areas. It is the perfect sweet reward after a long day of exploring the city streets.
Beppu also has several evening markets during the winter months that feature beautiful light displays and decorations. You can buy handmade crafts and warm snacks like grilled corn or sweet potatoes from vendors. These markets are a great place to experience the local culture and meet friendly residents of Beppu. The festive atmosphere will make your 2026 winter trip feel even more special and magical.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beppu a good place for families to visit during the winter season?
Yes, Beppu is an excellent destination for families during the winter months of 2026. The city offers many unique activities like ice skating, aquarium shows, and colorful hot spring tours. The warm onsens provide a perfect way to relax and stay cozy during the cold weather.
What should my family wear when exploring Beppu in the cold winter months?
You should wear several warm layers including a heavy winter coat, gloves, and a warm hat. The coastal wind can be quite chilly, and the mountain areas are often much colder than the city. Sturdy walking shoes are also essential for exploring the various hot spring sites safely.
Where can families find the best kid-friendly hot springs in the Beppu area?
Hyotan Onsen is highly recommended for families because it offers private baths and many different types of pools. Many local hotels also provide family-specific bathing facilities that allow parents and children to bathe together. These private options are perfect for those who want a more comfortable experience.
Beppu is a wonderful destination that offers many unique Beppu family winter activities for your 2026 trip. From the steaming hells to the mountain views, there is something for every family member to enjoy. Start planning your winter adventure today to experience the magic of Japan's most famous hot spring city. You will create lasting memories with your children in this beautiful and warm coastal destination.