Oita > Beppu Onsen Hoyo Land (別府温泉保養ランド): Japan’s Only Mud Bath Onsen Awaits
※Description:
Tucked away on the outskirts of Beppu (別府), Oita Prefecture, Beppu Onsen Hoyo Land (Mud Bath) (別府温泉保養ランド【泥湯】) offers Japan’s only naturally formed mud bath, a geothermal marvel shaped by thousands of years of hot spring water. This sulfur-rich mud and water, drawn straight from the earth’s depths, creates a one-of-a-kind onsen experience “unlike any other in Japan”. Far from the tourist-packed centers, this secluded retreat sees few visitors “especially midweek”, making it a haven for those seeking authentic relaxation.
A Brief History of Beppu Onsen Hoyo Land
Beppu Onsen Hoyo Land (Mud Bath) (別府温泉保養ランド【泥湯】) taps into Beppu’s (別府) geothermal legacy, a city famed for its thousands of hot springs. The mud here, known as Konya mineral mud, forms under rare conditions: a perfect blend of steam, humus clay, and mineral water. Over millennia, this mud has been prized for its therapeutic properties, drawing locals and a handful of in-the-know visitors. The onsen’s rustic setup and hotel preserve its traditional charm, offering a raw, unpolished glimpse into Beppu’s (別府) onsen culture.
Why Beppu? The Onsen Capital
Beppu (別府) is Japan’s hot spring capital, renowned for its eight geothermal “hells” and over 2,000 onsen. Nestled between mountains and the sea, its volcanic activity fuels a dizzying array of baths, from steaming pools to colorful springs. Tourists flock to famous sites like Beppu Jigoku Meguri (べっぷ地獄めぐり), but Beppu Onsen Hoyo Land (別府温泉保養ランド【泥湯】) remains a hidden gem, offering a quieter, more primal experience away from the crowds.
The Mud Bath Experience
Stepping into Beppu Onsen Hoyo Land (Mud Bath) (別府温泉保養ランド【泥湯】) feels like entering another world. The sulfur-heavy mud, fine as powder when dry, cradles you in 3 to 4 open-air baths, each deep enough to reach your neck “a warm, weightless embrace”. Beneath the mud, you’ll feel the magma’s heat pulsing in certain spots “an unforgettable connection to the earth”. This mineral-rich mud leaves your skin silky smooth and is said to treat ailments like rheumatism, skin conditions, diabetes, and even heart issues by boosting blood flow and detoxifying heavy metals. Its humin content binds toxins, while sulfur gas soothes nerves and lowers blood pressure “a natural healer”.
Bathing Tips, Staying, and Nearby Gems
Bathing Details and Precautions
The onsen features 3 to 4 distinct outdoor mud baths, varying in temperature and texture, all mixed-gender “one of Japan’s last true mixed onsen”. Don’t be shy—embrace the tradition and dive in. Separate men’s and women’s baths are also available for those who prefer privacy. Be cautious: avoid wearing metal jewelry or accessories, as the sulfur will corrode them. The mud’s potent sulfur leaves a lingering smell on skin and clothes for up to a week, so choose your outfit wisely “old clothes are best”. Baths are intense, with high heat retention, so limit soaks to 10-15 minutes to avoid overheating. Note: children under junior high age are prohibited from the mud baths due to their strength.
Staying and Visiting
Beppu Onsen Hoyo Land (Mud Bath) (別府温泉保養ランド【泥湯】) is remote, ensuring minimal crowds, especially midweek. You can visit for the day or stay overnight at the onsen’s hotel, a rustic retreat with traditional rooms and meals. Day visits are affordable, but book hotel stays in advance, especially in peak seasons. The quiet setting lets you unwind fully, far from Beppu’s (別府) busier spots. (More Info)
Nearby Attractions
Beppu Jigoku Meguri (べっぷ地獄めぐり): Beppu’s (別府) most famous attraction, a tour of vibrant, steaming “hell” hot springs.
Lake Kinrin (金鱗湖): A misty, hot spring-fed lake in Yufuin, perfect for early morning calm (learn more).
Usa Jingu (宇佐神宮): The head Hachiman shrine, rich in spiritual history (learn more).
※NTRanking: 9.0 / 10
Beppu Onsen Hoyo Land (Mud Bath) (別府温泉保養ランド【泥湯】) earns high marks for its unique mud baths and secluded vibe. Tucked away from Beppu’s (別府) tourist hubs, it sees few visitors, especially midweek, offering a near-private experience. Its therapeutic allure and mixed bathing are rare, though the sulfur smell and niche appeal keep it from a perfect score.
※How to Get There:
・From Oita City (approximately 45 minutes):
Take the JR Nippo Main Line from Oita Station (大分駅) to Beppu Station (別府駅), which takes about 15 minutes.
From Beppu Station, take a taxi or local bus to Hoyo Land (about 20-30 minutes).
・From Beppu (approximately 20 minutes):
From Beppu Station (別府駅), take a taxi or local bus to Beppu Onsen Hoyo Land (別府温泉保養ランド), about 20 minutes.
・From Fukuoka (approximately 2 hours):
Take the JR Sonic Limited Express from Hakata Station (博多駅) to Beppu Station (別府駅), which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
From Beppu Station, take a taxi or local bus to Hoyo Land (about 20 minutes).
※Address:
Myouban 5, Beppu, Oita, 874-0840
