Kannawa Jigoku District Park Nordic Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Japan’s famous hot spring town of Beppu, the Kannawa Jigoku District Park Nordic Walking Tour offers a refreshingly active way to see the sights. This guided experience combines gentle exercise with cultural insights and delicious local treats, making it a well-rounded day out. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a solid choice for those wanting more than just soaking in hot springs.

What we love about this tour:

• It’s guided by knowledgeable locals Uchi and Naho, who bring warmth and insider tips to the experience.
• You’ll pass by iconic hot spring sites like Tsurunoyu and Myoban Onsen, with plenty of opportunities for great photos.
• The tasting of famous onsen-cooked eggs and Jigoku-steamed pudding adds a delicious local flavor.

One possible drawback is the timing and pace—it’s about 3 hours, which might be brisk for those who prefer a more leisurely stroll. Still, it’s ideal for active travelers who want a taste of Beppu’s natural beauty and culture without spending all day on foot.

This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of light exercise, cultural sights, and authentic local experiences. It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to see the sights beyond the typical hot spring baths.

Good To Know

• Guided by local experts Uchi and Naho, who are praised for their kindness and knowledge.
• Includes scenic stops like Ebisu Shrine and Jigoku District Park.
• Tastes of local specialties like onsen eggs and Jigoku pudding, included in the tour fee.
• Flexible pickup options from Beppu Station or your accommodations.
• Affordable price point for a 3-hour guided experience, offering good value for cultural and scenic exposure.
• Private tour for your group, ensuring a personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Kannawa Jigoku District Park Nordic Walking Tour

Starting Point and Pickup Convenience

The tour kicks off with a pickup from Beppu Station or your accommodation, which is a big plus for travelers unfamiliar with local transportation. It takes the hassle out of logistics, allowing you to focus fully on the experience. Once onboard, the guides Uchi and Naho introduce the basics of Nordic walking, making sure everyone understands how to wield the poles correctly—this is especially helpful if you’re new to the activity.

The Nordic Walking Lesson

The brief lesson in Nordic walking is designed to get everyone comfortable with the technique. It’s not just about adding physical activity; it’s about engaging with the environment in a more mindful way. Expect some gentle stretching and practice before heading out. The guides’ warmth and patience shine through, making it accessible even for beginners.

Scenic Route from Jigoku District Park to Myoban Onsen

The walk begins at the Kannawa Jigokuchitai Park, a popular spot that’s free to enter and offers picturesque views of the steaming hot springs. While no bath is involved here, the guides give a short introduction to the site’s significance. This stop offers a good photo opportunity and a sense of the geothermal activity that makes Beppu famous.

The route then passes by Tsurunoyu, an open-air hot spring spot that’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Though you won’t bathe, the sight of bubbling hot water against lush scenery is captivating. Walking past these steaming vents, you’ll get a tangible sense of the area’s geothermal heat—something that truly sets Beppu apart.

The Charm of Ebisu Shrine

Midway through, you’ll stop at Ebisu Shrine, a small but historic shrine where visitors can offer a prayer. The guide mentions it takes around five minutes—enough to soak in the peaceful atmosphere and snap some photos. The shrine’s stone construction, noted by reviewers as unusual compared to typical wooden shrines, hints at its age and local craftsmanship.

Myoban Onsen and Tasting Delights

The highlight for many will be the stop at Myoban Onsen, renowned for its mineral-rich waters and unique culinary traditions. Here, you’ll get to sample onsen-cooked eggs—a must-try in Beppu—and Jigoku steamed pudding, a local dessert cooked using geothermal steam. The included tasting makes this a memorable part of the tour, offering a delicious taste of local life.

The Okamotoya restaurant provides a cozy setting for these treats, and reviews confirm the quality and authenticity of the flavors. The guides’ knowledge about the process and history of steaming foods adds depth to this experience.

Return and Drop-Off

After enjoying the treats, the walk circles back to Jigoku District Park, where the tour concludes. Participants are then dropped off at Beppu Station or their accommodations, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your hotel.

What Travelers Say

The one review available sums it up well: “Uchi and Naho are extremely kind and knowledgeable about hot springs and nature,” sharing their enthusiasm for both the scenery and cultural insights. They also mention visiting an over-150-year-old mountain shrine built of stone—an example of the hidden gems the guides introduce.

Value and Practicality

For $36.01 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. It combines light physical activity, cultural education, scenic views, and tasty local specialties—all guided by passionate locals. The small group size and private tour format mean you get personalized attention, which enhances the experience.

The inclusion of pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, especially for travelers unfamiliar with Beppu’s public transport. The three-hour duration strikes a good balance—enough to see highlights without feeling rushed. Plus, the full refund policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind when planning.

The Experience in Context

Beppu is best known for its hot springs, but this tour offers a different perspective—active exploration combined with cultural insights. Many visitors tend to stick to soaking, but this tour encourages engagement with both the natural environment and local traditions. It’s ideal for those who want to see more than just the baths and prefer their sightseeing a little more active.

Who Will Love It?

This tour is perfect for active travelers, culture enthusiasts, and food lovers. If you enjoy guided experiences where experts share stories and insider tips, you’ll find this engaging. It’s also suited for those with a moderate level of fitness who want a gentle walk combined with authentic local flavors.

Final Thoughts

The Kannawa Jigoku District Park Nordic Walking Tour delivers a well-rounded glimpse of Beppu’s geothermal wonders, cultural landmarks, and culinary delights. The knowledgeable guides Uchi and Naho add genuine warmth and insight, elevating the experience beyond just walking.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a leisurely pace or extensive sightseeing, it compensates with authenticity, convenience, and a personal touch. Whether you’re looking to stay active during your trip or simply want a different way to see Beppu, this tour offers good value and memorable moments.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from Beppu Station or your accommodation is provided, making it easy to start your adventure without logistical worries.

How long does the tour last?
The activity takes approximately 3 hours, giving you enough time for a scenic walk, cultural stops, and tasting.

Are children or beginners able to participate?
Most travelers can join, and the initial Nordic walking lesson makes it accessible for beginners. It’s suitable for anyone with a moderate level of fitness.

What are the main sights visited during the tour?
You’ll see Jigoku District Park, pass by Tsurunoyu hot spring, visit Ebisu Shrine, and enjoy tastings at Myoban Onsen.

Are the food tastings included?
Yes, the tour fee covers sampling onsen-cooked eggs and Jigoku steamed pudding at Myoban Onsen.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience with dedicated guides.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended. The guides provide poles and basic instructions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility.

Who conducts the tour?
The experience is led by NAHO Wellness Tour Guide, with guides Uchi and Naho recognized for their warmth and expertise.

This guided Nordic walking tour in Beppu seamlessly blends activity, culture, and local flavors, making it a distinctive way to experience the area’s geothermal charm. Perfect for those who want to explore actively and authentically—just be ready to walk, learn, and taste your way through the hot springs landscape.