Kannawa Onsen — relief & relaxation | Compare & book 2 inns

Overview

Located in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture, Kannawa Onsen is the centerpiece of the Beppu Onsen region, one of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts. Its history dates back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333) when the priest Ippen Shonin is said to have developed the area into a therapeutic bathing (Touji) resort. Since then, it has flourished as a town with a rich spa culture.

The most defining feature of Kannawa is the 'yukemuri'—clouds of steam rising from vents all over town. This scenery, known as the 'Beppu Yukemuri and Onsen Landscape,' is designated as a National Important Cultural Landscape. The view from the Yukemuri Observatory is particularly breathtaking. This steam is also used in a traditional cooking method called 'Jigoku Mushi' (hell-steaming), allowing visitors to savor the blessings of the onsen with all five senses.

Signature Spring Types & Benefits

Kannawa boasts a variety of spring types, but chloride springs are especially common. The salt content coats the skin, preventing moisture from evaporating after bathing. This excellent heat retention has earned them the name 'Netsu no Yu' (waters of heat). The area also has acidic springs with potential sterilizing effects, making it a great place for onsen-hopping.

• Poor circulationKannawa's prevalent chloride springs are known as "waters of heat." The salt components adhere to the skin, creating a film that helps retain body heat and improve blood flow long after bathing, which may alleviate circulatory issues.
• CutsThe mineral components found in the area's common chloride springs can help promote the body's natural healing process. The water's excellent heat retention also improves blood flow, which may aid in tissue repair for minor wounds.
• Dry skinThe mineral-rich water, particularly from the chloride springs, forms a thin film on the skin's surface. This coating helps the skin retain its natural moisture and can provide relief from the symptoms associated with skin dryness.
• Atopic dermatitisBathing in the local springs may help soothe the skin. The salt film left after bathing can assist with moisture retention, while the improved circulation from the water's warmth may help ease symptoms associated with this condition.
• Peripheral circulation disorder

Water Characteristics & Best Season

Even within Beppu, which has one of the highest outputs of hot spring water in Japan, the Kannawa area has a high concentration of sources. Many facilities offer 'gensen kakenagashi'—fresh, free-flowing spring water. The water temperature is often high at the source but is adjusted at each facility. While enjoyable year-round, the steam landscape is most magical during early mornings and evenings in winter when the air is cold.

Access

Nearby Attractions & Local Cuisine

• Beppu Hell Tour (Jigoku Meguri): A tour of unique hot spring sources like Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) and Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell).
• Jigoku Mushi Kobo Kannawa: Experience cooking with natural geothermal steam.
• Yukemuri Observatory: A panoramic view of the steam rising over Kannawa.
• Hyotan Onsen: Enjoy various baths, including a famous sand bath.
• Beppu's famous 'Toriten' (chicken tempura).
• Refreshing 'Beppu Reimen' (cold noodles).
• 'Jigoku Mushi Pudding' (steam-cooked custard pudding) from Okamoto-ya shop.