Unzen Hells 雲仙地獄

Only an hour-and-a-half drive from Nagasaki City , the Unzen Hells are a natural rarity of historical importance, where volcanic activity has caused hot springs and fumaroles to erupt violently.

From Nagasaki, you have the option of driving, catching the bus, or taking the train to Unzen.

By bus, take one of the three daily prefectural express buses from Nagasaki Ekimae Bus Terminal. The journey takes about an hour and 40 minutes.

There are also buses from Isahaya, which has train connections from Nagasaki.

According to records, Matsukura Shigemasa tortured Christians at the “hells” in Unzen. Many were documented to have been tortured to death in the boiling waters from 1627 to 1632.

Named after the hot water and gases that pour from the earth, the hot water and fumaroles emanating from the cracks in the bedrock and the distinctive smell of sulphur are reminiscent of the 'hell' in Buddhist teachings. A popular spot for Japanese citizens and foreigners alike, you can find various hotels and onsen resorts in traditional Japanese and western styles.