What this is
Beppu's famous eight hot spring districts — each with its own distinct character and water type — become the backdrop for a smartphone-based scavenger hunt using the JAPAN100 app. Visit five designated spots in each area to collect digital character stamps featuring the official Beppu Eight Hot Springs mascots, with exclusive smartphone wallpapers unlocked as rewards for completing each zone. It's a light, gamified way to explore parts of Beppu that most visitors never venture beyond the main tourist onsen.
Who should go
Onsen tourists who want a structured reason to explore all eight hot spring districts rather than just the famous ones. Works well for solo travellers and couples who enjoy self-guided exploration at their own pace.
Good to know
The JAPAN100 app is free to download and the stamp rally itself has no entry fee, though visiting individual onsen facilities along the route will incur their own admission costs (typically ¥100–¥600 per bath). Beppu's eight hot spring zones — including Kannawa, Hamawaki, and Shibaseki — are geographically spread out, so plan your route in advance to avoid backtracking. A Kamenoi Bus one-day pass (around ¥1,000) covers most zones and is sold at Beppu Station. Carry cash for any onsen entry fees as smaller public baths rarely accept cards. Completing all eight zones is ambitious for a single day — two days is a more comfortable pace.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.