Cycling Japan’s Kyushu Island

Overview

This guided cycling tour through northern Kyushu takes you away from the typical tourist areas and deep into Japan’s sacred landscapes. Imagine pedaling through misty mountains, past ancient shrines, and arriving in quiet towns built around steaming hot springs. The journey begins in the coastal city of Fukuoka, following calm backroads to Dazaifu, home to a shrine where students and scholars have prayed for over a thousand years. As the landscape changes, so does the pace of the ride. Rice fields turn into cedar-covered hills, and life feels slower in towns like Hita, once a busy center of samurai-era trade. You’ll visit Usa-jingū, one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines, known for inspiring thousands of others across the country. From there, the route climbs into the Kunisaki Peninsula, a remote area shaped by mountain monks and ancient pilgrimage trails. The tour ends in Beppu. Steam rises from the ground. The baths are quiet. After days of riding, it’s the perfect way to end the journey. Accommodations on this tour are comfortable and thoughtfully selected mid-range hotels in regional cities and towns. These are typically Japanese business-style or tourist-class properties offering private, en-suite rooms with Western-style beds, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and other essential amenities. A few locations offer traditional touches, such as on-site onsen (hot spring baths), or are within walking distance of local bathhouses. Hybrid Bike: Trek FX 3 - Aluminum frame, Rigid suspension with carbon fork, 700c aluminum wheels, 3×9 drivetrain with Alivio and Acera groupset, Tektro rim brakes, Weighs 11.4 kg. Electric Bikes: Verve+ 3 Lowstep Gen 3 - Torque 75 Nm, Battery 545 Wh, Bosch Performance Line motor, Bosch Purion 200 display, Shimano CUES U40 drivetrain, 9-speed, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, Alpha Platinum aluminum frame, lowstep, Verve alloy fork, Bontrager alloy handlebar, Bontrager Connection wheels, Bontrager E6 Hard Case Lite tires, 27.5 × 2.4", Weight (size M) 26.59 kg / 58.63 lbs. Electric Bikes: Trek FX+ 2 (In size small) - Alpha Gold aluminium frame with internal routing, rack/fender mounts, 250W Hyena hub motor, 40 Nm, 250 WH battery (range extender compatible), Shimano Altus drivetrain, 9-speed, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, 160 mm rotors, Bontrager Connection wheels, 400x40c reflective tires, Integrated lights, mudguards, kickstand, MIK rear rack, Weighs ~17.7 kg (39 lbs). Accommodations for 5 nights, Meals as per the itinerary (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner), Snacks, local fruit & water provided throughout the day when cycling, Hybrid bike rental, English-speaking guide (two guides if group is larger than 9), Air-conditioned vehicle for transfer & support, Complimentary water bottle & bike jersey. This is a fully supported cycling tour designed for riders with moderate fitness and good bike handling skills. The route covers 150 miles (242 km) over 4 days, with an average daily distance of 38 miles (61 km) and an average daily climb of 2,250 feet (686 meters). More than 75% of the terrain is mountainous, featuring both long, steady climbs and short, steep ascents. While flat and downhill sections offer occasional relief, riders should expect climbing on most days. The tour takes place mostly along paved roads, including quiet country roads and a few short stretches on busier routes near towns. An e-bike is available for a supplemental fee, and a support vehicle is available at all times. Fly into Fukuoka Airport (FUK) and out of Oita Airport (OIT). Upon arrival in Fukuoka, the tour hotel is easily accessible by a short train ride from Fukuoka Airport (FUK) to Hakata Station. At the end of the tour in Beppu, onward travel is easy by train or via a direct airport bus to Oita Airport (OIT), with departures from Beppu Station and other central stops. Expect daytime temperatures between 59–77°F (15–25°C), with mostly clear skies and low humidity. Spring brings cherry blossoms and fresh greenery, while autumn offers golden rice fields and the first touches of fall color. Onsen with bathing facilities are available throughout the tour, and our team will assist you in making arrangements. Please note that any associated costs are not included. We recommend budgeting around US$30 per day for incidentals. Tipping is not customary in Japan, though appreciated if offered voluntarily. Riders should be age 18 or older and possess a moderate level of fitness, be comfortable with sustained climbs, and have confidence in handling a bike on varied terrain. High-quality hybrid bikes are provided. You may bring your own pedals, saddle, or bar extensions. Helmets are required. Basic mechanical support is available from your guide, but you should carry a spare tube and a basic repair kit. Guides are first-aid certified and trained in emergency procedures. Water, fruit, and soft drinks are provided while riding. Beverages during meals, including beer, are not included. Meals are primarily Japanese, with an emphasis on seafood. Breakfasts may include rice, miso soup, and grilled fish. Granola and muesli are available for those who prefer a lighter option. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay. Nationals from 62 countries can enter Japan visa-free for 90 to 180 days, depending on your country of origin. It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, visa requirements, and acquisition, blank passport pages required for your destination (s), etc. For US citizens, a good website to research the requirements for entry into other countries is travel.state.gov. No vaccinations are required for entry, though general health precautions apply. Please consult your doctor for the most current guidance. Japan’s currency is the yen (¥). While ATMs are widely available, many only accept Japan-issued cards. Japan Post and Citibank ATMs typically accept foreign cards. Carrying some cash is recommended, especially in rural areas. This tour is run by SpiceRoads. We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide. We are not a broker. We do not inflate tour prices. We are simply travelers helping travelers.

Daily Ride Schedule

Accommodation & Services

Accommodation

Hotel

What's Included