Takegawara Onsen

Absolutely beautiful, one of the most memorable onsen experiences I’ve had. The architecture of the building is absolutely gorgeous, and one of the main points of attraction in this onsen. It feels like stepping back in time. We went to the onsen (two days in a row!) but didn’t do the sand bath this time. The main lobby has a small TV with a video explaining onsen etiquette. I highly recommend watching it! The etiquette for onsen in Beppu is a bit different from other places. Before going I saw many reviews remarking the building is in need of renovation and complaints about the lack of a shower area and shampoo etc. It’s important to remember this is a ~ local onsen ~, this is mot made for tourists. If you’re looking for a specific kind of experience, this might not be the place for you. If you are looking to experience what real and local onsen are like, you will appreciate Takegawara Onsen. The onsen area has only one bath and stools and buckets used to scoop water from the bath to wash yourself with. People bring their own shampoo/soap and used the stools and buckets to wash themselves with the water from the onsen. The place is aged, but very clean. The onsen water was the perfect temperature and crystal clear, both times I went. The baths themselves are very clean as well. A must go for those traveling to Beppu!

If you want to tick “sand bath” off your bucket list, this is the place. Fifteen minutes buried in hot sand for ¥1500 feels more like a quirky health ritual than a spa, probably good for you (I checked), but not exactly pampering. Facilities are bare-bones: no free water, no lotion, no soap, no shampoo, no razor, no comb, no toothbrush. Even the hair dryer eats ¥100 coins for 7 minutes, so bring your speed-drying skills. After the sand bath, you’ll find just two shower cubicles and a small cement hot tub that feels more backyard than bathhouse. For something bigger, you’ll have to change back into clothes and cross to the main bath (included), but don’t expect much beyond hot water. Some reviews said it was very hot, but we went on a rainy day and it wasn’t as intense as expected. Bonus: no queue at all. Verdict: Worth it once for the novelty and history, but if you’re after a real onsen soak, there are far better spots.

I came here on a rainy Wednesday afternoon in March 2025 around 3PM. Unfortunately the list for the sand bath (1500円) was already full until 5PM by this time, so I just tried their regular onsen (300円). The whole building, including the bath, is beautiful. There are small lockers for valuables in the main lobby, and shelves within the onsen area. There is no shampoo or body wash, so you must rinse yourself thoroughly with the hot water before entering (there are buckets and stools provided). There is only one bath, and it was quite hot when I went (above 40°C). There is a cold water tap you can rinse yourself with to cool off. Please note according to local rules you cannot sit on the edge of the pool. In the main lobby of the building they invite local artists to expose their work, so you can enjoy the artwork while waiting.

Seems to be varying reports, so let me tell you what I experienced in January 2026: Fantastic and friendly staff. An hour wait for sand bath. Easy instructions. Interesting and relaxing sand bath - if you have sensitive skin, maybe give it a miss... your thighs will thank you later (fun fact: they used to do it stark naked back in the day, so thank the yukata for saving your "bits"!). There is soap, shampoo, and a not-too-hot little bath after you wash the sand off. (I didn't go in the other ofuro which is a different bath to that for the sand bath). Don't be precious about the rustic state of the place - you're there for an authentic experience, not a luxury day spa. Dunno what some reviewers were expecting...

Must try local style sandbath if you visit beppu, very relaxing, soothing and great combination with public bath onsen afterwards. It is tourist friendly as well, operators could communicate in basic English so no problems if you can't speak acword of Japanese. We went for the 8am session, arrived 10 mins before session started and did not have to wait (Wednesday) for another session, finished within a hour from start to finish, an hour really smooth and well spent.