Tag: Beppu Japan

Where in the World Are We?

In Beppu, Japan

BEPPU, JAPAN
Hot springs of Beppu, known for its eight scorching “Hells.”
The lantern-lit hot springs of Beppu, known for its eight scorching “Hells,” is a town that’s prettier than a picture. The city is found in a particularly volcanically active part of Japan (hence the abundance of hot springs, or in Japanese, onsens). The viewing pools have evocative names; think Sea Hell, Blood Pond Hell, and Tornado Hell. While the names might seem a little off-putting, the reality is stunning: sulfur-laced air and vast spectrums of blues and reds, depending on the mineralization of the earth. As if the gorgeous palette of colors at the onsen was not enough, Beppu is also world famous for its Sakura, or cherry blossom season. More than 2,000 cherry trees near the base of the ropeway to Mount Tsurumi make for one of Beppu’s most impressive hanami (flower viewing) spots. If not lucky enough to be in the area during Sakura, from May to June, rhododendrons color the mountain.

The view from this 1,375m mountain is beyond impressive, allowing you to see the Kuju Mountains, Chugoku, and Shikoku. If brave enough to climb to the top, the stone Buddhas that were carved into the mountainside during the Heian Period (794-1185) are a worthy reward! As with much of Japan, duality is ever present. Modernity sits very comfortably in ancient buildings. While Beppu’s most significant pull is by far the hot springs and the thermal baths, nearby (10 km), Yufuin has a wealth of art museums, cafes, and boutiques, catering to trendsetters and urbanites alike.

SIGHTS
• Beppu Jigokumeguri
• Stone Buddhas Site
• Usuki Village
• Beppu Hot Springs
• Mount Tsurumi
• Umitamago Aquarium
• Takasaki Monkey Park
• Oita Art Museum

SHOPPING
Beppu’s hot springs generate abundant amounts of water and a lot of steam that can be seen blowing out here and there across the city. People have been harnessing the naturally hot steam for cooking food for centuries. The resulting dishes are called “Hell Steam Cuisine” and are simple and healthy due to the gentle, additive-free cooking method. The naturally mineral-laden steam is also said to bring out the authentic flavors of the food.

Today’s Excursion – Usuki Village & Stone Buddhas
We explored a splendid collection of stone Buddhas and the ruins of a famous castle.
Beppu, Usuki City, Usuki Stone Buddhas, Over 60 Buddha Images
The Usuki Stone Buddhas are Japan’s most famous and most extensive collection. This splendid site features more than 60 images of Buddha, each with its unique expression. They were believed to have been made between the Heian Period (797 A.D.-1192 A.D.) and the Kamakura Period (1192 A.D.-1333 A.D.). These Buddha figures, called Magaibutsu, are carved into the rock and cannot be moved. The Magaibutsu were the first historical artifacts in Kyushu to be designated National Treasures. They have also garnered international recognition due to their beauty and the remarkable carving techniques utilized in their creation despite the solid rock.

Usuki Castle Ruins, Samurai District
We visited the ruins of the Usuki Castle, built by Yoshishige Ootomo in 1562. The castle tower was destroyed in the early Meiji Era. The castle ruins, along with a few buildings and some stone walls, have become a park. Then, we toured the historical Samurai District.

3:30 Destination Lecture with Evelyn Evans – Kagoshima:

This extraordinary port has the active volcanic island of the Sakurajima Bay area, which means that hot springs are plentiful, the views spectacular, and the cedar forests are majestic. From here, visit the samurai village of Chiran, where the
Peace Museum pays homage to the young Kamikaze pilots whose stories it tells.

Dinner tonight was a family-style Italian Dinner with entertainment from the Siver Dawn singers and dancers.