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Takegawara Onsen

Beppu, Oita

A 1938 public bathhouse in central Beppu known for its sand bath, where attendants bury bathers in heated sand while they wear a yukata.

Traditional Japanese wooden bathhouse with curved roof and red mailbox at entrance
  • Historic indoor onsen bath with wooden windows and tiled walls
  • Takegawara Onsen photo 3
Photo: Ken ケニー via Google

At a glance

Price
$
Visit website0977-23-1585
Access
Walk-ins welcome
Amenities
Relaxation loungeThermal pool
Price
Affordable

Takegawara Onsen is a municipal bathhouse in the Motomachi district of Beppu, first built in 1879. The original structure had a bamboo-thatched roof that was later replaced with tile, giving the building its name—literally "bamboo roof tile." The current building dates to 1938, its facade topped with an elaborate karahafu gable roof that has become a recognizable symbol of Beppu's hot spring district.

Inside, a high-ceilinged lobby preserves the atmosphere of the early Showa era, with space for bathers to rest after soaking. Regular baths run daily from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., and no reservation is needed—walk-ins are welcome.

The main draw is the sand bath, open from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. with last entry at 9:30 p.m. Bathers put on a yukata and lie down on sand that has been heated by the onsen's thermal water; attendants known as sunakakesan then shovel more hot sand over the body. The facility closes on the third Wednesday of each month, or the following day if that Wednesday falls on a public holiday.

Amenities include a relaxation lounge and a thermal pool area, and the price tier is listed as affordable, in keeping with its role as an everyday public bathhouse rather than a resort facility.

Good to know

Do I need a reservation?
No, walk-ins are welcome for both the regular bath and the sand bath.
What are the sand bath hours?
The sand bath runs from 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., with last entry at 9:30 p.m.
Is Takegawara Onsen open every day?
It's open daily except the third Wednesday of the month, or the next day if that Wednesday is a public holiday.
What should I bring for the sand bath?
You wear a yukata for the sand bath experience, though the source doesn't say whether one is provided or you need to bring your own—worth confirming with the venue.
How much does it cost?
The listing places it in the lowest, most affordable price tier, but exact yen amounts aren't given here, so check current fees with the facility.

Details checked October 2, 2026. Prices and hours change; confirm before you go.

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