Meet in Fukuota, Kyushu’s most populated city. The hotel is located a few minutes walk from Hakata train station, which can be reached by a 6 minute train from the airport. Get to know your fellow cyclists at tonight’s welcome dinner.
Your first stop today is the The Kyushu National Museum, where you can learn about the history of the places we’ll visit over the next few days. It’s then time to get on your bike and start cycling to the Tenmangu Shrine and the Komyozen-ji temple before reaching a hot spring resort and Edo-era Hida, a merchant town.
You will start today with a small climb of 390m spread over 10km to the top of the Oishitoge Pass (475m). The descent will take us to Usa, where the Shinto Shrine lies. You will have views of traditional Japanese landscapes, such as the thatched Kurehashi bridge and Usa-jingu, surrounded by woodland.
Today the ascent along the Kinisaki Peninsula to Mount Futago commences and is littered with ancient temples. You will look inside Fuki-ji, an 11th century wooden temple, one of the oldest in Japan and as you descend you will pass numerous other temples as well as beaches and ports. Today’s destination of Kinisaki, overlooks the sea so you can relax with fabulous ocean views.
The route to Kitsuki, en route to Beppu, is one of beauty. You will cross streams, neighbourhoods and visit the smallest castle in Japan, the Kitsuki Castle. When you reach Buppa you can relax in Japan’s most famous hot spring resort or take a bath, whether it’s a steam bath, mud bath, sand bath or hot water bath Buppa has it.
After breakfast, it’s time to depart after an incredible trip or make separate arrangements with us to stay in Japan.
This trip guides you through Japan’s beautiful scenery, traditional cultural spots and unique cycling destinations. The mix of rural, beach and city riding provides an incredible experience for those seeking a new adventure in a fascinating and captivating country.