Himeshima Eco Tour from Beppu Explore Island Myths and Nature

Beppu , Japan

Himeshima Eco Tour from Beppu Explore Island Myths and Nature

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About this experience

Discover Himeshima, a hidden island near Beppu, on this half-day eco tour.
After a scenic ferry ride, explore the island’s Seven Wonders by eco-cart with a guide or on your own. Learn about local myths, shrines, and nature. Visit the Himeshima Lighthouse and Kannonzaki cliffs, home to a seaside shrine. Stop for lunch and enjoy Hyoshimizu Onsen, a historic spring said to be blessed by a goddess.

This tour combines cultural guidance with self-paced freedom. English maps and support are provided. Local guides are optional.

Note: Eco-cart drivers need a valid international license. Electric bikes are available if not.

Transport from Beppu is not included. A PDF with access and ferry info will be sent after booking.

Important: This tour does not include insurance. Please ensure your travel insurance covers injuries, accidents, or damages during the tour.

Available options

Himeshima Eco Tour from Beppu Explore Island Myths and Nature

What's included

Local Himeshima Guide

Detailed itinerary

待ち合わせからタクシーが迎えにきます。別府から伊美港まで１時間ちょっと、そこからフェリーで姫島に渡ります。

姫島

Kannonzaki is a scenic cape on the southern tip of Himeshima, known for its dramatic black obsidian cliffs, which are designated as a National Natural Monument. At the top of the cliffs stands a small shrine called “Sennindō,” a sacred place where locals pray for safe travels and good fishing.

The area offers breathtaking ocean views, especially at sunset. It’s a peaceful stop with a viewing platform and rest area, ideal for photos and reflection. Easily visited on the way to Himeshima Lighthouse, Kannonzaki combines nature, geology, and spiritual heritage in one quiet, powerful location.

After completing the Seven Wonders route, guests can continue their journey by driving the eco-cart toward the scenic Himeshima Lighthouse. The ride takes about an hour, with peaceful views of the coastline. Along the way, guests are welcome to stop and enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local café or eatery, sampling simple island-style meals before reaching the lighthouse

Hyoshimizu Onsen is a rare carbonated cold spring (approx. 24.9°C) with two baths—one hot (~41°C) and one cold sourced directly from the ground. The spring’s origin dates back to a legendary figure from the Nihon Shoki era, making it one of Himeshima’s Seven Wonders. It is reputed to benefit conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, skin and neurological disorders, and is even drinkable for digestive ailments. The small public bathing facility offers sea views and views of Shikoku through wide windows. Open midday to evening, the entrance fee is ¥310 for adults and ¥150 for children from outside the village.

姫島港から、フェリーで伊美港に戻りタクシーで、別府に戻ります。こちらもだいたい合計２時間程度、乗り遅れないように注意しましょう？

What's not included

Transportation costs such as train, bus, and ferry fares and EV car are not included in the tour price. These must be paid separately by each participant.

Lunch is not included in the tour price. You are free to choose your preferred place to enjoy lunch during the break

insurance

Available languages

Audio guide

DE IT FR ES

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting Point: Seattle’s Best Coffee, Beppu Station

Please meet at Seattle’s Best Coffee inside Beppu Station.
You can relax and enjoy a drink while waiting.
Our guide will come to pick you up at the scheduled time.
We recommend arriving at least 10 minutes early.

About Beppu

Beppu is renowned for its numerous hot springs (onsen) and is one of Japan's most famous onsen towns. The city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and cultural experiences, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both rejuvenation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Beppu Onsen Hells (Jigoku Meguri)

A collection of eight spectacular hot springs, known as 'hells' due to their dramatic and colorful landscapes. These natural wonders are a must-see for visitors.

Nature 2-3 hours Free to ¥500 per site

Beppu Ropeway

A scenic cable car ride offering panoramic views of Beppu and the surrounding mountains. The ropeway takes you to the top of Tsurumi Park, where you can enjoy a variety of attractions.

Nature/Adventure 1-2 hours ¥800-¥1,200 for round trip

Beppu Art Museum

A museum showcasing a diverse collection of Japanese and international art, including works by renowned artists like Yayoi Kusama and Takashi Murakami.

Museum 1-2 hours ¥800-¥1,200

Beppu Takegawara Onsen

One of the oldest and most famous onsen in Beppu, known for its traditional atmosphere and therapeutic hot springs. The onsen is located near the Beppu Station and is easily accessible.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥500-¥800

Kannawa District

A historic district known for its traditional onsen culture and unique architecture. The area is home to numerous hot spring bathhouses, souvenir shops, and local eateries.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, onsen costs vary

Must-Try Local Dishes

Jigoku Mushi

A traditional Beppu dish where food is steamed using the natural heat from the city's hot springs. Common ingredients include chicken, vegetables, and eggs.

Dish Contains meat and eggs, vegetarian options may be available.

Beppu Beef

Tender and flavorful beef from the local Beppu cattle, often served as sushi, steak, or in hot pot dishes.

Dish Contains meat, vegetarian options may be available.

Tori-Temaki

A local specialty consisting of chicken sushi rolls, often served with a tangy sauce.

Dish Contains fish and meat, vegetarian options may be available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Onsen hopping Exploring the Beppu Onsen Hells Onsen visits Scenic cable car rides Strolling through Tsurumi Park Visiting traditional onsen districts Exploring local art museums

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and onsen visits. The city is vibrant with cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Beppu is a very safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. The city is well-equipped to handle tourists, and English-speaking staff are available in many establishments.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Oita Airport • 30 km from Beppu

By train

Beppu Station

By bus

Beppu Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Beppu is efficient and covers most of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for visiting onsen towns and attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kannawa Hamawaki Myoban

Day trips

Yufuin

20 km from Beppu • Half day to full day

A charming onsen town known for its scenic beauty, art galleries, and traditional shops. Yufuin offers a more relaxed and picturesque alternative to Beppu.

Usa Jingū

30 km from Beppu • Half day to full day

One of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, dedicated to the god of warriors and archery. The shrine is surrounded by beautiful forests and offers a peaceful retreat.

Aso Volcano

100 km from Beppu • Full day

An active volcano located in Aso-Kuju National Park, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities. The volcano is one of Japan's most famous natural landmarks.

Festivals

Beppu Hatto Festival • April 1-3 Beppu Onsen Festival • August 1-3 Yufuin Art Festival • November (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Beppu Onsen Hells (Jigoku Meguri) early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos.
Try a variety of onsen experiences, from traditional public baths to private onsen in ryokan.
Explore the local cuisine, including jigoku mushi (hell-steamed dishes) and Beppu beef, for an authentic taste of the region.
Use the Beppu City Bus for convenient and affordable transportation around the city and to nearby attractions.
Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the Beppu Onsen Hells to save money and time.