1. What are some of the most famous landmarks in Beppu, Japan?
1. Beppu Onsen – a group of hot spring resorts with over 2,500 years of history
2. Jigokumeguri (Hell Tour) – a popular tourist attraction featuring steaming hot springs and geothermal activity
3. Takasakiyama Monkey Park – home to over 1,500 Japanese macaque monkeys
4. Beppu Tower – a 100-meter tall observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
5. Beppu Bay – a scenic bay known for its sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.
6. Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) – one of the most famous and strikingly colored hot springs in Beppu.
7. Oya-ji Temple – an ancient Buddhist temple located in the mountains overlooking Beppu.
8. Mount Tsurumi – the tallest mountain in the city, offering hiking trails and stunning views.
9. Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell) – another unique hot spring with red-colored water due to its high iron content.
10. Yusuhara Hachiman Shrine – a beautiful Shinto shrine with a large red torii gate spanning across the entrance.
2. Can you recommend any historical sightseeing tours in Beppu?
Some historical sightseeing tours in Beppu include:1. Beppu Jigoku (Hell) Tour: This tour takes visitors to some of the famous hot springs and “hells” of Beppu, including Umi Jigoku, Oniishibozu Jigoku, and Kamado Jigoku. These hot spring sites have a rich history dating back hundreds of years.
2. Beppu City Walking Tour: This tour allows visitors to explore the historical and cultural sites of Beppu on foot. It includes visits to temples, shrines, markets, and other important landmarks in the city.
3. Hachiman Shrine Historical Tour: Hachiman Shrine is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Kyushu and is located in Beppu. This tour takes visitors through the history and significance of this sacred site.
4. Yufuin Land Art Walk: Yufuin is a nearby town known for its beautiful landscapes and traditional architecture. This tour takes visitors on a walk through the town’s art installations while also highlighting its history.
5. Oita Prefectural Museum Tour: For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Oita Prefecture, this museum offers exhibitions on archaeological discoveries, traditional arts and crafts, and local festivals.
6. Tsurumidake History Hike: Tsurumidake is a mountain that overlooks Beppu City and has hiking trails dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). This tour takes visitors along these old trails while learning about local history and legends associated with the mountain.
7. Takasakiyama Monkey Park & Manza Onsen Sightseeing Cruise: This unique tour combines a visit to one of Japan’s most famous monkey parks with a scenic boat cruise to Manza Onsen, an area known for its volcanic activity which has attracted people since ancient times.
3. How old is Beppu’s famous Hells of Beppu hot spring area?
* (a) 100 years old* (b) 300 years old
* (c) 500 years old
Answer:
(c) 500 years old
4. Are there any prominent religious landmarks in Beppu?
Yes, there are several prominent religious landmarks in Beppu, including the Beppu Hattatsu (Eight Hot Springs) Shrine, Jigoku Hachiman Shrine, and the Chikurin-ji Temple. These sites are significant to both Shinto and Buddhist religions and attract many visitors for spiritual reflection and worship. Additionally, Beppu is home to numerous hot spring bathhouses that have roots in shamanism and traditional healing practices. These bathhouses are still considered sacred by many and are important cultural attractions in Beppu.
5. What makes the Onsen Hoyoland resort a popular tourist destination in Beppu?
There are several reasons that contribute to the popularity of Onsen Hoyoland resort in Beppu:
1. Natural Hot Springs: Onsen Hoyoland is known for its natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. These hot springs are said to have therapeutic benefits for skin and muscle conditions, making it a popular destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
2. Variety of baths: The resort offers a variety of baths such as outdoor, indoor, and foot baths, each with its own unique features and benefits. This allows visitors to choose the type of bath that best suits their needs and preferences.
3. Beautiful location: The resort is situated in a picturesque location surrounded by lush green mountains and forests. This natural setting adds to the overall serene and peaceful atmosphere of the place.
4. Traditional Japanese experience: Onsen Hoyoland offers visitors an authentic traditional Japanese experience with its tatami mat rooms, traditional cuisine, and onsen etiquette.
5. Cultural activities: The resort also offers various cultural activities such as tea ceremony, kimono wearing, calligraphy classes, etc., giving visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture.
6. Accommodation options: Onsen Hoyoland offers a range of accommodation options including private villas, traditional Japanese style rooms (ryokan), western-style rooms, and camping facilities. This makes it suitable for different types of travelers with varying budgets.
7. Easy access from major cities: Beppu is easily accessible from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka via air or train travel. This makes it convenient for tourists to visit Onsen Hoyoland while exploring other parts of Japan.
8. Nearby attractions: Beppu itself is a popular tourist destination with many other attractions like Jigoku (the nine hells), Beppu Tower, and Mt Takasaki Monkey Park nearby Onsen Hoyoland, making it an ideal spot for day trips from the resort.
Overall, the combination of natural hot springs, cultural activities, traditional atmosphere, and beautiful location makes Onsen Hoyoland a popular tourist destination in Beppu.
6. How many different types of hots springs can be found in Beppu?
There are eight different types of hot springs in Beppu:
1. Bihada-no-Yu (beauty bath)
2. Konyoku (mixed gender bath)
3. Private onsen
4. Carbonated onsen
5. Sand bath
6. Steam bath
7. Golden hot spring
8. Tryptophan-rich hot spring
7. Is there a particular time of year that is best to visit the Umi Jigoku or “Sea Hell”?
The Umi Jigoku, or “Sea Hell”, is a popular attraction in Beppu, Japan and can be visited year-round. However, the best time to visit may depend on your personal preferences and interests.
– Spring (March-May): This is a beautiful time of year to visit the Umi Jigoku, as the surrounding gardens are in full bloom with colorful flowers.
– Summer (June-August): Summers in Beppu can be hot and humid, but this is when you can witness the vibrant blue color of the sea hell at its most intense due to increased volcanic activity.
– Fall (September-November): With mild temperatures and fewer crowds, fall is a great time to visit if you want a more relaxed experience.
– Winter (December-February): While it may be cold outside, the steam from the hot spring adds an extra element of mystery to the Sea Hell during winter.
Ultimately, any time of year is suitable for visiting the Umi Jigoku. The stunning natural beauty and unique geothermal features make it a worthwhile destination regardless of when you go.
8. Are there any ancient ruins or archaeological sites to explore in and around Beppu?
There are several ancient ruins and archaeological sites in and around Beppu, such as:1. Takasakiyama Megaliths: These ancient stone structures date back to the Jomon Period (14,000 – 300 BC) and can be found on Mount Takasaki.
2. Kakurinji Temple: This temple dates back to the Kamakura Period (1185-1333) and contains a variety of cultural artifacts, including ancient inscriptions and carvings.
3. Chojabaru Megalithic Site: This site is home to numerous dolmens (ancient tombs) that are over 2,000 years old.
4. Yugama Crater: This crater was formed by a volcanic eruption over 1,300 years ago and is now filled with hot springs.
5. Kijima Kogen Park: This park contains a replica of an ancient village from the Yayoi Period (300 BC – 300 AD), complete with traditional houses and excavated artifacts.
6. Hachikita Yakata Burial Mound: This large burial mound dates back to the Kofun Period (300-710 AD) and is one of the largest in Kyushu.
7. Hinomaru Stone Circles: These stone circles were discovered in the 1970s and are believed to be from the Yayoi Period.
8. Kuju-Rakuen Ato Ruins: These ruins are from the early Jomon Period (10,500 – 3,000 BC) and contain remains of dwellings, cooking pits, and other artifacts.
9. Arutaki Cave Ruins: These caves were used as dwellings during the Jomon Period and contain various artifacts such as pottery shards, fishing tools, and animal remains.
10. Gokasanso Prehistoric Village Remains: These ruins date back to the Yayoi Period and contain the remains of a fortified village, including a moat and other defensive structures.
9. Can you go inside the volcanic crater of Mount Tsurumidake and see its scenic lake up close?
No, it is not possible to go inside the volcanic crater of Mount Tsurumidake. It is dangerous and prohibited for visitors to enter the crater due to potential hazards such as toxic gases, unstable terrain, and potential volcanic activity. The scenic lake can be seen from the rim of the crater or from various viewpoints around the mountain.
10. What role did Oniichan no Yu hot spring play in traditional Japanese medicine and folklore?
Oniichan no Yu hot spring, also known as “Little Brother’s Bath,” has a long history in traditional Japanese medicine and folklore. The hot spring was believed to have healing properties and was often used to treat various ailments such as rheumatism, nerve pain, skin diseases, and fatigue.
In traditional Japanese medicine, hot springs are considered a form of natural therapy known as “onsen no chiryo.” The mineral-rich water from Oniichan no Yu is believed to have different therapeutic effects depending on its composition. For example, sulfuric water is thought to help relieve muscle pain and improve circulation, while carbonated water is said to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
In addition to its medicinal properties, Oniichan no Yu also plays a significant role in Japanese folklore. It is said that the hot spring was named after a young boy who discovered the healing powers of the water while playing in the area. Legends say that anyone who bathes in Oniichan no Yu will be blessed with good health and longevity.
The hot spring is also associated with supernatural beings such as demons or spirits called “yokai” in Japanese folklore. It is believed that these creatures reside within the waters of the hot spring and can grant wishes or curses upon those who bathe there.
Overall, Oniichan no Yu hot spring continues to be an important part of traditional Japanese culture, serving both as a place for physical healing and spiritual beliefs. It remains a popular destination for locals and tourists alike seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, and a connection with Japan’s rich history and folklore.
11. How long does a typical tour of Yusuhara Hachiman Shrine take?
A typical tour of Yusuhara Hachiman Shrine takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend exploring the grounds and participating in any religious rituals or ceremonies.
12. Is it possible to see traditional geisha performances at the Kannawa Geisha District?
No, it is not possible to see traditional geisha performances at the Kannawa Geisha District. While there are still geisha in Japan today, they mainly perform in Kyoto or other major cities. The Kannawa Geisha District does not have any geisha houses or teahouses where performances take place. However, there are occasional festivals or events that may feature dance and music performances by geisha or maiko (apprentice geisha). These events may be advertised locally and are open to the public, but they are not regularly scheduled performances.
13. Which historical sites in Beppu were impacted by World War II?
There were several historical sites in Beppu that were impacted by World War II, including:
1. Myoban Onsen Village: This traditional onsen village was largely destroyed during an air raid in 1945.
2. Kannawa Onsen Village: Like Myoban, this onsen village also suffered heavy damage during the war.
3. Jigokumeguri Hell Tour: The famous “Jigokumeguri” or “Hell Tour” attraction was closed during the war due to safety concerns caused by nearby bombings.
4. Beppu Tower: Beppu’s iconic tower, built in 1957 was actually originally intended to be built before the war, but construction was halted due to financial difficulties caused by the conflict.
5. Umitamago Aquarium: The original aquarium was destroyed during an air raid and was rebuilt after the war ended.
6. Umijigoku: This popular sea-hell hot spring was also damaged during bombing raids and had to be reconstructed after the war.
7. Geyser Park (Geijutsunomori Park): Prior to WWII, this park featured various geysers and other natural hot springs for visitors to enjoy. Unfortunately, it was completely destroyed during an air raid and is now a public park with no traces of its former attractions.
8. Beppu Kaihin Citizen Park: This seaside park features a large sculpture called “Asphalt Statue,” which was created from melted metal from a bombed factory nearby.
9. Kankaiji Temple: This historic Buddhist temple in Beppu sustained significant damage from bombing raids but has since been restored.
10. Takegawara Onsen: A popular hot spring bathhouse in Beppu that was damaged during WWII but has been rebuilt and is still in operation today.
14. What is the significance of Suginoi Hotel’s iconic Mt.Takasaki cable car ride?
The cable car ride at Suginoi Hotel provides guests with a unique and scenic experience to access the hotel’s upper level facilities, including outdoor hot spring baths and restaurants. It also offers stunning views of Mount Takasaki and the surrounding Oita countryside. The cable car is known as the longest cable car ride in Japan, stretching 1015 meters across breathtaking landscapes. It has become a popular attraction for tourists visiting the area and adds to the overall luxurious and relaxing atmosphere of the Suginoi Hotel.
15. Have any famous icons visited Beppu’s art village, Kyusho Jangaro?
According to online sources, it is not known if any famous icons have specifically visited Beppu’s art village, Kyusho Jangaro. However, the village has hosted various cultural events and exhibitions featuring talented artists and creators from Japan and abroad. It is possible that some famous individuals may have visited the village at some point in time, but there is no specific record of this information.
16. Does Chikuda River offer any memorable boat tours through Oita Prefecture’s greenery?
Yes, Chikuda River offers a variety of boat tours that showcase the beautiful greenery of Oita Prefecture. Some popular options include the Nakaumi Nature Cruise which takes visitors through the ancient swampy wetlands of Lake Nakaumi and the Oniishi Inlet Boat Tour which allows visitors to explore shallow waters and mangrove forests in search of wildlife. There are also sunset cruises available, as well as traditional Japanese Yakatabune boat tours that offer a unique cultural experience while admiring the lush scenery along Chikuda River.
17.Can visitors enter inside Kijujuin Temple’s wooden structure filled with over 500 hand-painted Buddha statues?
Unfortunately, no. The interior of the Kijujuin Temple’s wooden structure is not open to visitors and remains closed off. The hand-painted Buddha statues can only be seen from the outside.
18.How many temples make up the Rakanji Temple complex and what sets them apart from each other?
There are 40 temples in the Rakanji Temple complex. Each temple is dedicated to a different rakan (enlightened disciple of Buddha) and has its own unique architectural style, artwork, and history. Additionally, each temple has a specific purpose or role within the complex, such as housing important artifacts or serving as a place for meditation. The diversity of these temples reflects the range of influence and beliefs within Buddhism and adds to the cultural significance of the Rakanji Temple complex.
19.Which prominent movie was filmed partially at Bungo Takada Castle, known as one of Japan’s top three cliff castles?
“Rashomon” (1950), directed by Akira Kurosawa, was partially filmed at Bungo Takada Castle.
20.What’s the backstory behind Kijoka Shrine and its mythical sea creature guardian?
Kijoka Shrine is an ancient Shinto shrine located in Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan. The shrine is known for its unique connection to Okinawan mythology and its guardian deity, the legendary sea creature known as Nuno-Sasagu.
According to legend, Nuno-Sasagu was a giant sea serpent that protected the waters around Kijoka Shrine and the nearby village of Kijoka. It was said to have a long serpentine body with shimmering scales that shone like silver in the sun. Its head was said to resemble that of a dragon, with large amber eyes and sharp teeth.
The origin of Nuno-Sasagu’s role as the protector of Kijoka can be traced back to Okinawan creation myths. These myths tell the story of Amamikyu, the goddess of creation who is believed to have created the Ryukyu Islands, including Miyazaki Prefecture where Kijoka Shrine is located.
Amamikyu had a son named Izanagi, who was said to have been born from her last breath before she returned to Takamagahara (heaven). Izanagi was tasked with governing the land and sea creatures on earth and it is believed that he bestowed upon Nuno-Sasagu its protective role over Kijoka Shrine.
According to local folklore, Nuno-Sasagu would appear whenever there was danger or conflict threatening the village or its people. It would use its immense strength and powers to defend against any threats, leading some locals to believe that it had divine powers.
Over time, Nuno-Sasagu became an integral part of the culture and history of Kijoka Village. Its image can be seen on various local goods and souvenirs such as pottery and textiles. It is also prominently featured in traditional dance performances during festivals at Kijoka Shrine.
Today, visitors can still see representations of Nuno-Sasagu at Kijoka Shrine, including a large stone statue and numerous wooden carvings. The shrine continues to be an important place of worship for locals and tourists alike, as they pay their respects to the mythical sea creature guardian and offer prayers for protection and prosperity.
While the existence of Nuno-Sasagu may be purely mythological, its presence at Kijoka Shrine serves as a reminder of the deep connection between religion, nature, and the local community in Japanese culture.