12 Healing Volcanoes: Thermal Adventures for Wellness Seekers

5. Beppu Onsen — Japan

Beppu on Japan’s Kyushu island is famous for its many hot springs and the theatrical "hells"—colorful geothermal displays meant for viewing rather than bathing. The city’s onsen culture dates back centuries and offers a wide range of bathing styles: open-air baths, private family baths, and therapeutic mud or sand baths. Visitors should learn basic Japanese bathing etiquette—cleanse thoroughly before entering shared pools, avoid swimsuits in communal baths, and follow gender-separated rules when applicable. For wellness travelers, Beppu’s variety makes it easy to sample different mineral profiles and temperatures in a compact area. Many facilities offer short-treatment options, so you can combine a soak with other activities. Be mindful that some traditional ryokan and public baths expect quiet, modest behavior. For accessibility, there are both high-end ryokan experiences and more affordable public sento-style baths.