Yukemuri Observatory

Kannawa Onsen is one of the most popular areas in the Beppu Onsen region, which boasts Japan's largest number of hot spring sources and greatest hot spring water output and is known for attractions such as the Beppu Jigoku Meguri. The sight of countless plumes of steam rising throughout the area has been designated an Important Cultural Landscape as the “Beppu Hot Spring Steam and Onsen Landscape.” In March 2001, the steam rising over Beppu was also ranked second nationwide after Mt. Fuji in NHK's poll of “Japanese Landscapes to Preserve for the 21st Century.”

Located on a hill within walking distance of the Kannawa hot spring district, the observatory offers a panoramic view of the townscape with steam rising throughout. The surrounding mountains are also worth seeing, including Mt. Ohira, the site of the Ogiyama Fire Festival, an annual controlled burn and one of the main events of the Beppu Hatto Onsen Festival held each April, and 1,375-meter Mt. Tsurumi, one of Japan's 300 Famous Mountains, known for its seasonal scenery and sweeping views.

The spectacular nighttime view from the observatory has been recognized as a Japan Night View Heritage site. On Saturday, Sunday, and holiday evenings, colorful lights illuminate the rising steam, enveloping the hot spring district in a dreamlike atmosphere.