Unzen Jigoku is one of the top attractions of the hot springs town of Unzen, Nagasaki Prefecture. Wooden walkways snake through a area filled with heated gas, billowing steam, and scalding hot water. Add a strong sulfuric odor to conjure up the image of hell, or jigoku. Stay at one of the many hotels or ryokan that look directly out over the site and bathe in the theraputic hot spring water that gushes from it.
- 1 min read
Nagasaki's 'Hell' - Unzen Jigoku
Boiling pools & billowing steam in a Kyushu onsen town

By Sandra Isaka
Community writer

A raised path provides a safe and easy way to view the site.

The trail into Unzen Jigoku starts here.

Miyazaki Ryokan sits right beside the entrance to the trail and directly overlooks the site.

Magma at the bottom of Chijiwa Bay is thought to be the source of the volcanic activity.

Gases here reaches 120 degrees celcius, mainly in the form of steam.

The highest temperature of the water is 98 degrees celcius.

Unzen Jigoku is part of Japan's first national park.

These pipes provide onsen water to the surrounding hotels and ryokan.

The hot springs water is good for treating rheumatism and diabetes.

A small shrine within Unzen Jigoku was renamed 'Onsen Jinja' in 1912.

Unzen Onsen is approximately 100 minutes from central Nagasaki by express bus.
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Explore Kujukuri, Chiba and Beyond
Chiba - Sponsored -
2
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
3
Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
4
7 Must-See Temples and Shrines in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Japanese Convenience Store Coffee: Ultimate Guide
Food -
6
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
7
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
8
Azumino, Japan’s Peaceful Highland Getaway
Nagano - Sponsored -
9
One Full Day in Kamogawa From Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa
Chiba - Sponsored -
10
Asakusa GYUUNA Yadoki: Premium Eel & Wagyu Beef in Asakusa
Tokyo
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Edogawa Fireworks Festival
Tokyo -
3
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
6
Summer Comiket
Tokyo -
7
September Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8
Nara Tokae Lantern Festival
Nara -
9
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo -
10
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto