Why Beppu is a Cyclist's Hidden Gem

Beppu is world-famous for its hot springs, but among cyclists, the city and its surrounding Oita Prefecture are increasingly recognized as one of Kyushu's finest cycling destinations. The region offers a remarkable variety of terrain: flat coastal roads hugging Beppu Bay, gentle rural valleys, and serious mountain passes through volcanic highlands. Whether you're a recreational rider enjoying the scenery or a competitive cyclist in town for the Beppu Ride event, the roads here don't disappoint.

Route 1: Beppu Bay Coastal Loop

Distance: ~40–50 km | Difficulty: Easy–Moderate | Best For: All levels

This is the perfect introduction to cycling in Beppu. Riding south from central Beppu along the coast toward Oita City and looping back, you'll enjoy sweeping views over the bay, gentle gradients, and the unique sight of steam rising from the hillsides where hot springs vent naturally. The road surface is generally smooth, and traffic is manageable on weekdays.

Highlights: Beppu waterfront, views of the bay, access to Hamawaki onsen district.

Route 2: Yufuin Climb via Route 11

Distance: ~60–70 km return | Difficulty: Challenging | Best For: Intermediate–Advanced riders

For climbers, the road from Beppu inland toward Yufuin (Yufu City) is a classic. The route ascends steadily through forested hillsides with views back over the bay and up toward the twin peaks of Yufu-dake volcano. The descent into Yufuin is rewarding, and the town itself offers excellent cafes and restaurants for a mid-ride refuel before the return journey.

Highlights: Mountain scenery, Yufu-dake views, Yufuin town for food and rest.

Route 3: Tsurumi Ropeway Road Circuit

Distance: ~30 km | Difficulty: Moderate | Best For: Intermediate riders

This shorter circuit climbs from central Beppu toward the Tsurumi-dake ropeway area before looping back through residential districts with panoramic city views. It's a great leg-opener for race day preparation or a quality training ride when time is limited.

Route 4: Oita–Beppu–Bungotakada

Distance: ~120–140 km | Difficulty: Challenging | Best For: Experienced riders

This longer route traces the coastline north from Beppu through fishing villages toward the Kunisaki Peninsula and Bungotakada. The road winds along clifftops and through small coastal communities largely untouched by mass tourism. This is Kyushu cycling at its most authentic — quiet roads, stunning scenery, and warm local hospitality at small roadside restaurants.

Highlights: Kunisaki Peninsula, coastal villages, Usa Shrine optional detour.

Practical Tips for Cycling in Beppu

  • Roads: Japanese roads are generally well-maintained with clear signage. Always carry a paper map or downloaded offline route as mobile signal can be patchy in mountain areas.
  • Traffic: Drive (and ride) on the left side of the road. Respect traffic signals strictly.
  • Bike rental: Several shops in Beppu offer bike hire including road bikes and e-bikes — useful if you're travelling without your own machine.
  • Convenience stores: 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson stores are dotted along most routes and are excellent for water, food, and emergency supplies.
  • Onsen recovery: After a long ride, a soak in one of Beppu's public bathhouses (from ¥100–300) is an affordable and genuinely effective recovery tool.

Best Season to Ride

Beppu and Oita are rideable year-round, but the best cycling conditions are generally:

  • Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures, cherry blossoms along many routes — spectacular scenery.
  • Autumn (September–November): Cooler air, autumn foliage in the mountains — arguably the finest cycling season.
  • Summer (June–August): Hot and humid; early morning starts are essential. Typhoon season requires weather monitoring.
  • Winter (December–February): Cool and crisp on the coast; mountain routes may have ice or snow at elevation.

Getting Your Bike to Beppu

If travelling by train, Japanese railways generally accept bikes in rinko bags (fully packed bike bags) at no extra charge on most services. Bikes can also be transported on ferries from Osaka and Kobe to Beppu — a popular option for riders bringing their own equipment. Always check current airline and rail policies before travel.