Transport Between Beppu Hells in Winter Season
Planning your transport between Beppu Hells in winter season is essential for a warm trip. The city offers several ways to move between these steaming volcanic wonders. You can choose between local buses, quick taxi rides, or short walks. This guide covers everything you need for a smooth 2026 winter visit.
Using the Local Bus Network
The Kameoi Bus company is the main provider for tourists in Beppu. Routes 5, 7, and 9 connect Beppu Station directly to the Kannawa area. These buses run frequently during the 2026 winter season to keep tourists moving. You will find the bus stops clearly marked with English signs.
A single bus ride typically costs between 150 and 330 yen. You can use major IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for easy payment. This saves you from fumbling with coins in the freezing winter air. Simply tap your card when you board and exit the bus.
Consider purchasing the "My Beppu Free" bus pass for better value. This pass allows for unlimited travel on all local routes for a set price. It often includes Beppu Hells tour winter discount tickets 2026 for extra savings. You can buy these passes at the Beppu Station tourist hub.
Buses are well-heated and offer a cozy escape from the coastal winds. Most vehicles feature digital screens that announce the next stop in English. This makes it very easy to know exactly when to get off. Be sure to check the Japan National Tourism Organization site for updated regional travel tips.
Walking Between the Main Hells
Five of the seven famous hells are located within the Kannawa district. These sites are close enough to reach on foot even in winter. Walking between these five hells usually takes less than ten minutes per segment. The paths are mostly flat and easy to navigate for all ages.
Start your walking journey at Umi Jigoku to follow a logical path. From there, you can easily reach Oniishibozu and Shaven Head Hells nearby. This cluster allows you to see several sights while minimizing outdoor exposure. Wear a heavy coat to block the cold winter breeze between stops.
The sidewalks in Kannawa often stay clear of ice due to geothermal heat. You might see steam rising from the drainage pipes along the road. This natural warmth makes the Beppu Hells winter walking tour map guide very useful. It helps you find the most direct routes between the steaming vents.
If you get too cold while walking, look for a public foot bath. Many of the hells offer these warm soaking spots for a small fee. They provide an excellent way to reheat your toes during a long day. This is one of the best parts of a best foot baths at Beppu Hells winter experience.
Reaching the Shibaseki District Hells
The final two hells are located in the more remote Shibaseki district. Chinoike Jigoku and Tatsumaki Jigoku sit about three kilometers away from Kannawa. Walking this distance in the winter is not recommended for most travelers. The road involves hills and can be quite windy during January and February.
Instead, take bus number 16 or 16A from the Kannawa bus terminal. The journey takes about ten minutes and costs roughly 190 yen. These buses run approximately twice every hour throughout the day. Check the schedule at the terminal to avoid long waits in the cold.
Taxis are another great option for reaching the Shibaseki area quickly. A taxi ride from Kannawa will cost between 1,200 and 1,500 yen. This is very affordable if you are traveling with a small group. Taxis are usually parked near the entrance of Umi Jigoku or the bus hub.
Visiting these outlying sites is vital for the full Beppu Jigoku Meguri winter experience. The bright red water of the Blood Pond Hell looks striking in winter. You can find more details on the official Beppu Jigoku Association website. Plan for about one hour to see both Shibaseki attractions.
Practical Winter Transport Tips for 2026
Winter days in Beppu are quite short during the 2026 season. The sun usually sets around 5:00 PM, making it dark quite early. Most hells close their gates at 5:00 PM precisely. Start your transport journey by 9:00 AM to ensure you see everything.
Keep a close eye on the local weather forecast during your stay. While heavy snow is rare in Beppu, it can occasionally disrupt bus schedules. If the wind is too strong, consider using taxis for door-to-door service. This keeps you dry and warm throughout the entire tour.
Dress in several layers to manage the temperature changes. You will be warm inside the buses but cold while waiting at stops. Many bus stops are outdoors and do not have enclosed waiting rooms. Buy some heat packs at a convenience store to keep in your pockets.
Use a navigation app like Google Maps to track bus times. It works very well with the Beppu transit system in real-time. This helps you time your departures from each hell perfectly. You will spend less time standing in the cold by planning your moves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free shuttle between the Beppu Hells?
No, there is no free shuttle between the two main hell areas. You must use the local Kameoi bus or a taxi. Bus number 16 is the most common route used by tourists. It connects the Kannawa area to the Shibaseki area in ten minutes.
Can I use the JR Pass for transport between hells?
The Japan Rail Pass is not accepted on Beppu city buses. These buses are operated by a private company called Kameoi Bus. You will need to pay with cash or an IC card. The My Beppu Free pass is a better local option.
How long does it take to travel between all hells?
Total transport time takes about 30 to 45 minutes if using buses. This does not include the time spent inside each attraction. Most visitors spend about three to four hours for the entire tour. Taxis can reduce your total travel time by fifteen minutes.
Mastering transport between Beppu Hells in winter season ensures a comfortable 2026 trip. Use the local buses for the best value and warmth. Remember to group your visits by district to minimize travel time. Enjoy the steaming sights and stay warm in the local foot baths!