A famous hot spring, known as ”kamasaki for wounds”.
The nature of Unzen has been carefully preserved from the olden days, and it is a treasure trove of wild birds and alpine plants. Unzen was the first to be designated as a National Park in the 9th year of Meiji (1934). Between Koyu and Shinyu of Unzen, there is an area covered with white soil called Unzen Jigoku (Unzen Hell). Hot steams blow out from everywhere, and the air is filled with the strong smell of sulfur, and the sight of the steam and fumes conjures images of hell; thus the name Unzen Jigoku.
The quality of Unzen’s hot spring water is acidic sulfur with strong acidity. The hot springs can become as hot as 98℃, and the main components are iron, aluminum, and sulfate ions, and is effective against rheumatism, diabetes, and skin diseases. The gasses that erupt can go up to temperatures of 120℃.
The area was also the site of ancient Christian martyrdom, and on the hill looking down on Jigoku, there stands a cross as a monument to the story of persecution of Christians. There are about 30 Jigoku, such as Oito Jigoku which is said to have erupted at the execution of an adulterous woman, Oito, and Daikyokan Jigoku, where hot spring water of nearly 100℃ and steam blow out. We recommend you visit them all.
