Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival: A unique experience in Japan's onsen paradise

The Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival is one of Japan's most unique events, held annually in Beppu City, Oita Prefecture. Known as an "onsen paradise", Beppu boasts more than 2,000 hot springs, providing the world's largest water supply. The Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival not only celebrates this precious resource, but also offers unique cultural and artistic experiences to visitors.

At the Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival, you will be immersed in a vibrant atmosphere and a rich variety of activities. From traditional ceremonies to artistic performances, this is the perfect opportunity to explore the local culture and specialties. Learn about the Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival and these fascinating experiences.

1. History and significance of the Beppu Hatto hot spring festival

The Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival originated from the desire to honor the area's precious resources (Photo source: Collected)

The Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival originated from a desire to honor the area’s precious resource: the rich hot springs that have existed for thousands of years. Initially held as a spiritual ritual to pray for the well-being and safety of the residents, the event has evolved over time into a massive cultural festival that attracts visitors from all over.

The main purpose of the Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival is to promote unity and pride in Beppu's natural heritage. Each year, the festival promotes tourism, bringing in a large amount of revenue for the local economy and helping to raise awareness about the conservation of precious resources.

2. Highlights of the Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival

2.1. Parade and traditional opening ceremony

The festival begins with a colorful parade (Photo source: Collected)

The festival begins with a colorful parade where local residents dress in traditional costumes and perform folk dances. The opening ceremony usually takes place at Beppu's largest hot springs, showing respect for this natural resource.

2.2. Try the free onsen experience

This is a great opportunity for you to experience the feeling of relaxation in natural hot water (Photo source: Collected)

A special highlight of the festival is the opportunity to enjoy free onsen baths in many areas of the city. This is a great opportunity to experience the relaxing feeling in the natural hot water, famous for its healing and beautifying properties.

2.3. Performing arts and music

The festival also organizes special art performances (Photo source: Collected)

The festival also hosts a variety of artistic performances, from traditional Japanese dance to open-air concerts. Stages are set up in central areas, creating a bustling and joyful festival atmosphere.

2.4. Unique local cuisine

Unique culinary experience (Photo source: Collected)

At the festival, you cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy Beppu specialties such as jigoku mushi (dishes steamed in hot spring steam), crispy tempura, and fresh seafood. Food stalls are set up everywhere, ready to satisfy even the most demanding diners.

2.5. Hot spring tours

Tourists can join tours to visit famous hot springs (Photo source: Collected)

Visitors can join tours to visit famous hot springs such as Umi Jigoku (Blue Sea Hell Spring) or Chinoike Jigoku (Red Blood Spring). These attractions not only have unique beauty but also contain interesting cultural and historical stories.

3. When and how to participate in the Beppu Hatto hot spring festival

Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival usually takes place in April every year (Photo source: Collected)

The Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival usually takes place in April every year, when the weather in Beppu becomes pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. To participate in the festival, visitors can book a flight to Oita Airport or take the Shinkansen to Beppu Station. The city has a convenient public transportation system, making it easy to move between the event locations.

In addition, to fully enjoy the festival, you should book a hotel or ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) early, because this is the time when Beppu welcomes a large number of tourists.

The Beppu Hatto Hot Spring Festival is not only a cultural event but also a chance for you to experience the best of Beppu city. From traditional activities, relaxing onsen, to rich cuisine, the festival offers unforgettable memories for anyone who participates. Plan and enjoy this unique festival on your next trip to Japan!

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/le-hoi-suoi-nuoc-nong-beppu-hatto-v16099.aspx