Reader’s Question: Have you ever heard Koyanagi Rou mention that they’ve been to Beppu?
Have You Ever Heard Koyanagi Rou Mention Beppu?
Okay, so here’s the thing. You might be wondering why I’m kicking off this post with such a
specific question about Koyanagi Rou and their travels to Beppu. Well, I have to admit, I had never heard of this person until a friend mentioned them in passing while we were chatting about our dream travel spots in Japan. And that’s when the curiosity bug bit me. So, I dove headfirst into a rabbit hole of internet searches, fan pages, and, of course, travel blogs (like this one!).
For those of you who are also in the dark, Koyanagi Rou is a Japanese celebrity, and let’s just say, they have a pretty interesting life. But, back to Beppu. I stumbled upon this stunning hot spring town in Oita Prefecture during my own trip to Japan a couple of years ago, and wow, was I blown away. I mean, this place is like a natural spa on steroids, and I can’t help but feel like it deserves its own spotlight.
Why Beppu? The Hot Springs Experience!
So, let’s talk about hot springs for a second because, honestly, that’s Beppu’s bread and butter. When I first pulled into this charming town, I was greeted with a waft of sulfuric steam rising from the ground. It sounds weird, I know, but there’s something oddly comforting about it. It’s like the earth is giving you a warm hug!
My first stop was one of the famous “Hells” of Beppu—Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour). Each hell site has its own unique characteristics, and I found myself hopping from one to another with the kind of glee you usually reserve for a theme park. The Blood Pond Hell, with its bright red water, looked like something straight out of a horror movie, but trust me, it’s all in good fun. Just don’t dip your toes in; it’s boiling hot!
I also visited the Sea Hell, which boasts vibrant blue water resembling the Caribbean, and honestly, it was breathtaking. The contrast of the intense color against the surrounding greenery was like a scene from a postcard. I had my phone out, snapping pictures like a tourist in full swing. I mean, who could blame me? It was that stunning.
Getting My Soak On
But let’s get to the real deal here—actually soaking in the hot springs. After all that touring around, I was ready for some relaxation. Beppu is dotted with ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) that offer onsen (hot spring baths), so I couldn’t resist booking a night at one. I stayed at a lovely ryokan called Kamenoi Besso, and can I just say, it felt like stepping into a different world?
The moment I walked in, I was greeted by a staff member dressed in a yukata, offering me green tea. Talk about hospitality! I felt like royalty. After settling into my room, I wasted no time and slipped into my yukata, ready to hit the onsen.
There’s something incredibly soothing about soaking in natural hot spring water. The minerals worked wonders on my tired muscles, and I felt all the stress of life just melt away. The outdoor baths, set against a backdrop of nature, were a slice of heaven. I could’ve stayed there for hours, just listening to the gentle rustle of the leaves and the birds chirping. Seriously, if you ever get the chance, don’t skip out on this experience.
Beppu’s Culinary Delights
Alright, while we’re on the subject of indulgence, let’s not forget about food! Beppu is famous for its unique way of cooking—using hot spring steam! I mean, come on, that’s creative, right? I tried a dish called “Jigoku-mushi,” where assorted vegetables and seafood are steamed using geothermal energy. Talk about farm-to-table! I was practically drooling just thinking about it.
One of my favorite places to grab a bite was a quaint little restaurant called Sushiro, where I had the freshest sushi I’ve ever tasted. The chef prepared everything right in front of me, and I watched in awe as he skillfully rolled and sliced the fish. It was such a treat to eat sushi with local ingredients, and it paired perfectly with my onsen experience. I think I even ordered a second round… or maybe a third. Who’s counting?
Getting Around Beppu
For anyone worried about how to navigate Beppu, don’t fret! The town is pretty accessible. You can easily get around on foot or rent a bicycle if you’re feeling adventurous. Public transport is also well-connected, making it easy to hop between the various hells and ryokans without breaking a sweat.
I remember one of my evenings in Beppu when I decided to rent a bike. It was such a nice way to take in the sights at my leisure. I found a cute little café tucked away in a corner, where I treated myself to some matcha ice cream. It was so creamy and rich, a perfect balance of sweet and earthy. Honestly, I could have devoured a gallon of it!
Unexpected Gems
Even though Beppu is known for its hot springs, there are hidden gems scattered throughout the town that you won’t want to miss. One such spot is the Beppu Park, which boasts beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring and vibrant foliage in the fall. It was a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the hot spring crowds.
I also stumbled upon the Beppu Tower, where I had panoramic views of the city. Standing there, I felt like I could see all of Beppu stretched out before me—the ocean sparkling in the distance and the steam rising from the hot springs. It was one of those moments that made me feel so grateful for being able to travel and experience new places.
A Word on Koyanagi Rou
Now, circling back to Koyanagi Rou—while I didn’t find any concrete evidence of their trip to Beppu, I can’t help but feel like they’d totally appreciate all the beauty and experiences this town has to offer. If they’re into relaxing, good food, and taking in unique cultural experiences, Beppu would be right up their alley.
In fact, my mind keeps drifting back to the idea of celebrities visiting Japan and soaking in the onsen. Can you imagine Koyanagi Rou lounging in a hot spring, after a long day of filming? I mean, it sounds like a perfect escape. If they haven’t been to Beppu yet, I highly recommend they add it to their bucket list!
Final Thoughts
As I wrap up my reflections on my time in Beppu, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. This little town left such a lasting impression, from the healing waters of the onsen to the delectable food and stunning views. If you ever find yourself in Japan, make sure to carve out some time for Beppu. You won’t regret it!
And who knows? Maybe Koyanagi Rou will mention their own magical experience in Beppu someday, and we’ll all be left dreaming about our own trip to this gem of a hot spring town. Until then, I’ll be here, reminiscing about the warmth of the onsen and the taste of that heavenly matcha ice cream. Cheers to more adventures!
