Beppu, located in Oita Prefecture, is renowned as Japan’s onsen capital. Steam rises from street grates, the smell of sulfur hangs faintly in the air, and the sheer volume of hot spring water is staggering. But for families traveling to Kyushu, one experience stands out as particularly unique (and potentially intimidating): the Sunayu, or Sand Bath.
Burial in hot volcanic sand might sound like a spa treatment for adults, but can you do it with children? Is it too hot? Will they get bored?
As you plan your trip to this steamy city, understanding the logistics of sand bathing is essential to avoiding a meltdown (literally and figuratively). If you are looking for a comprehensive overview of the region, we highly recommend reading our pillar guide: The Ultimate Guide to Oita with Kids: Hot Springs, Sanrio Characters, and Safari Adventures.
In this specific guide, we will break down everything parents need to know about experiencing Beppu’s famous sand baths with toddlers and elementary-aged children.
What Exactly is a Beppu Sand Bath?
Unlike a traditional hot spring where you soak in water, a sand bath involves wearing a lightweight cotton yukata (robe) and lying down in a pit of heated sand. Attendants—often referred to as “sand masters”—shovel warm, heavy sand over your body until only your head is visible.
The sand is heated naturally by the geothermal steam rising from beneath the ground. The combination of the heat and the weight of the sand is said to improve circulation and relaxation. For kids, however, the novelty lies in being “buried alive” on a beach or in a hall—a giant, warm sandbox experience they won’t forget.
The Big Question: Is It Safe for Kids?
Safety is the number one concern for parents. Generally speaking, sand bathing is safe for children, but there are strict caveats regarding age and heat tolerance.
Age Limits and Diaper Rules
Most sand bath facilities in Beppu do not have a strict “age limit” in terms of years, but they do have a “diaper rule.” * Hygiene: Because the sand is reused (though sanitized by high-temperature steam), hygiene is paramount. Almost all facilities prohibit children who are still in diapers or training pants from entering the sand pits.
- The Verdict: If your child is fully potty trained, they are usually welcome. If they are still in diapers, you will likely have to take turns: one parent waits in the lobby with the baby while the other enjoys the sand.
The Temperature Factor
The temperature of the sand usually hovers around 50°C to 55°C (122°F – 131°F). While this sounds incredibly hot, the layer of yukata provides a barrier, and the sand cools slightly as it sits on your skin.
However, children regulate body temperature less efficiently than adults.
- Time Limit: While adults typically stay buried for 10 to 15 minutes, a child should probably only stay in for 5 to 8 minutes max.
- Monitoring: You must lie next to your child. Watch their face for redness or signs of distress. If they say it’s too hot, believe them immediately.
- Escape Route: The beauty of a sand bath is that you can wiggle out. If your child panics or gets too hot, they can simply sit up, shedding the sand instantly.
Best Family-Friendly Sand Baths in Beppu
Not all sand baths are created equal when you have a nervous 5-year-old in tow. Here are the top recommendations for families.
1. Beppu Beach Sand Bath (Beppu Kaihin Sunayu)
This is the most iconic spot, located right on the edge of the Shoningahama Beach.
- The Vibe: Open-air (with a roof), facing the ocean. The sound of the waves helps distract restless kids.
- Family Note: Because it is outdoors, the air is fresh and cool, which balances the heat of the sand nicely. This contrast makes it much easier for children to tolerate the heat compared to indoor facilities.
- Access: Easily accessible by bus or taxi from Beppu Station.
2. Hyotan Onsen
Hyotan Onsen is widely considered the most foreigner-friendly and family-friendly day-trip onsen in Beppu. It holds three Michelin stars for tourism and offers a variety of baths beyond just sand.
- The Vibe: Unlike the beach bath, this is self-service (in some areas) or indoors.
- Family Note: Hyotan Onsen has a full facility including waterfall baths and family-private baths (kashikiri). If the sand bath fails, you have plenty of backup options to salvage the visit.
- Dining: They have a fantastic restaurant on-site serving Jigoku Mushi (hell-steamed food), which is a fun activity for kids to watch.
3. Takegawara Onsen
The oldest and most historic bathhouse in Beppu.
- The Vibe: majestic, wooden, and very old-school.
- Family Note: While beautiful, the atmosphere is somber and quiet. The changing rooms are basic, and the water baths are notoriously hot. For families with young, boisterous children, this might be a bit too stressful compared to the relaxed nature of the Beach Sand Bath.
Step-by-Step: How to “Sand Bath” with Kids
To ensure a smooth experience, walk your kids through the process before you arrive so they know what to expect.
- Check-In: Buy your tickets. You will be given a yukata (robe). Ask for a child’s size (kodomo-yo); most major places stock them.
- Change: Go to the changing room. Remove all clothes (including underwear) and put on the yukata. Tie the sash on the left side over the right.
- Head to the Pit: Walk to the sand pit area. Don’t forget to bring a small towel for your head.
- Lie Down: The attendant will indicate where to lie down. Usually, there is a wooden pillow.
- The Burial: This is the scary part for some kids. The attendant will shovel sand over you. Tip: Ask the attendant to leave your child’s arms free (“Arms out, please”). This makes children feel less trapped and allows them to play with the sand slightly, reducing anxiety.
- The Soak: Relax. Listen to the ocean or the quiet.
- The Exit: When you are done, wiggle your arms and legs to shake off the heavy sand and sit up slowly (to avoid a head rush).
- The Wash: You will be covered in dark sand. Head to the shower area to rinse off the sand thoroughly before entering the regular hot water baths to finish the experience.
Planning Your Beppu Trip
Sand bathing is just one part of a Beppu adventure. If you are staying overnight, choosing the right accommodation is crucial for maintaining family peace. Beppu is home to one of the most famous family hotels in Japan. You can read our detailed review here: Suginoi Hotel Beppu Review: The Ultimate Family Stay in Kyushu.
If you are trying to decide how to structure your days in Oita, balancing relaxing onsen time with high-energy activities is key. Many families struggle to choose between the two major theme parks in the area. We break down the pros and cons in our guide: Harmony Land vs African Safari Oita: Best Family Attraction in Kyushu?.
Getting There
Beppu is accessible via the Sonic Express train from Hakata, or the scenic route from Kumamoto. If you are coming from Kumamoto, the train journey itself can be a highlight for children.
- Check out our guide on the “kuro-chan” themed train: Riding the “Aso Boy!” Train with Kids: Seats, Bento & Ball Pit Guide.
Summary Checklist for Parents
- Hydrate: Drink water before and immediately after the bath.
- Hair Ties: If you have long hair, tie it up high. Getting volcanic sand out of long hair is a nightmare.
- Cameras: At Beppu Beach Sand Bath, you can bring your phone/camera to the side of the pit. The attendants are usually happy to snap a photo of your family buried in the sand—a perfect souvenir.
- Towels: Most places rent towels for a small fee, but bringing a tenugui (small hand towel) from your hotel is smart.
Sand bathing in Beppu is a memorable, sensory experience that even elementary-aged kids often end up loving. It’s warm, it’s weird, and it’s quintessentially Kyushu.
For a broader look at how to fit Beppu into a larger trip, check our 7-Day Kyushu Family Itinerary: Fukuoka, Beppu, and Kumamoto by Train.