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Kyushu Cycling Guide by Campervan

Loading bicycles into your RV and exploring Kyushu’s vast nature and historic streetscapes offers complete freedom to enjoy the region’s treasures. The 5 cycling roads we introduce today are filled with unique spectacular views and attractions, each route designed to make your heart race with excitement. The wind you feel in nature’s embrace, discoveries at tourist destinations, and rest stops that heal your tired body – everything will make your journey more special!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How can I safely load bicycles?

A1. Secure with rear carriers or racks, and protect frames with anti-slip mats and bike bags for peace of mind.

Q2. What are the recommended cycling courses in Kyushu?

A2. We recommend these 5 courses: Aso Caldera, Beppu Bay, Hirado, Yanagawa Waterways, and Amakusa Pearl Line.

Q3. What maintenance should I check before riding?

A3. Don’t forget to check tire pressure, brake pad wear, chain lubrication, and operation of lights and helmets.

Top 5 Spectacular Kyushu RV Cycling Adventures
🙂 Cycling Beginner: A nature and history enthusiast wanting to enjoy cycling + RV camping
🚴 Cycling Master: An expert who has cycled throughout Kyushu
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Ready to go! Where should we head first?
Aso Caldera (about 30km) — Experience the grand panorama of Kusasenri and Komezuka with your whole body in this magnificent nature route!
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I see, sounds exhilarating! What’s next?
Beppu Bay (about 25km) — A luxurious course where you can simultaneously enjoy hot spring towns with rising steam and the blue sea ✨
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🙂
Hot spring cycling sounds amazing! What’s the third one?
Hirado (about 40km) — A spectacular story touring red bridges and historically atmospheric streetscapes 🚲
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History can be enjoyed too. What’s the fourth?
Yanagawa Waterways (about 20km) — Leisurely cycling along waterways in a waterside town. You can also take a boat ride for a break!
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You can ride boats too! What’s the last one?
Amakusa Pearl Line (about 50km) — Island hopping across spectacular bridges connecting islands, feeling the sea breeze 🌊
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Benefits of RV Cycling Adventures
1 Flexible Itinerary
RVs serve as mobile accommodations. You can stay wherever you like, allowing immediate rest after cycling.
Example: After cycling mountain routes, stay on-site and move to different courses the next morning. Efficiently enjoy multiple routes without booking accommodations or worrying about transportation.
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2 Easy Bicycle Loading
RVs can easily accommodate multiple bicycles. You can transport dirty bikes after cycling without worry.
Example: Load the whole family’s bikes for weekend trips. After riding in the rain, simply store muddy bikes in the storage space hassle-free.
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3 No Luggage Worries
Ample storage for food, clothing, and repair tools. Enjoy cycling with minimal gear.
Example: Even on long-distance rides, travel light. Keep spare clothing, tools, and snacks in the RV while cycling unencumbered.
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1. Aso Caldera Cycling – Magnificent Scenic Route to Feel Earth’s Heartbeat

A spectacular route where you can experience nature’s grand scale with your whole body.

Aso Komezuka

Aso’s caldera is a magnificent natural stage where you can feel the earth’s breathing. Riding while embraced by its vastness fills your heart with an exhilarating sense of liberation from daily life. The journey visiting points where history and nature’s attractions are condensed, such as Kusasenri Beach and Aso Shrine, offers emotional experiences you can only taste here.

Aso Caldera Route

Distance and Duration
Total Length: About 30km (Short Route)
Duration: About 2-3 hours (including rest stops)

Model Route

Aso Farm Land → Komezuka → Aso Shrine → Aso Farm Land

Highlights

  • Komezuka: Small volcano with unique shape. Perfect photo backdrop with the summit!
  • Aso Shrine: Sacred place to experience Aso area’s history and culture.
  • Kusasenri Beach: Magnificent grassland perfect for picnics and refreshment.
Aso Kusasenri Beach

Parking Spots

Aso Farm Land Parking: RV-compatible with excellent facilities.

Cycle Pits & Rest Points

  • Kusasenri Observatory: Sells drinks and light snacks.
  • Cafes around Aso Shrine.

Precautions

  • Mountain areas have many steep slopes, so electric-assist bicycles are recommended.
  • Weather changes frequently, so don’t forget rain gear.

2. Beppu Bay Cycling Road – Luxurious Harmony of Steam and Blue Sea

A route where you can enjoy two healing elements: hot spring steam and blue sea.

Beppu, famous as a hot spring destination, is truly a healing land where steaming streetscapes and spectacular blue sea views merge. Riding this route offers special moments where you can simultaneously feel the salt aroma carried by the wind and the warmth of hot springs. A non-daily cycling experience where tourism and relaxation can be enjoyed at once.

Beppu Bay

Beppu Bay Route

Distance and Duration
Total Length: About 25km
Duration: About 2 hours

Model Route

Beppu Park → Shonin-ga-hama Park → Beppu Tower → Beppu Park

Highlights

  • Shonin-ga-hama Park: Spectacular viewpoint of hot spring town and sea.
  • Beppu Tower: Landmark offering panoramic views of Beppu city.
Beppu Bay from Jumonji Observatory

Parking Spots

Beppu Park Parking: Spacious and RV-friendly. Paid after first hour
Minamitateishi Park: Free

Cycle Pits & Rest Points

  • Cafes and hot spring facilities along Beppu Bay.

Precautions

  • Watch speed in tourist areas with heavy foot traffic.
  • Hot spring steam may obstruct visibility, so ride carefully.

3. Hirado Cycling Road – Nagasaki’s Scenic Highway of Sea Breeze and History

Tour historic streetscapes and beautiful island scenery in Hirado, Nagasaki Prefecture.

Hirado Park and Hirado Bridge

Hirado is an attractive area with beautiful bridges connecting islands to mainland and historic streetscapes. Cycling here unfolds timeless stories accompanied by pleasant sea breezes. The sparkling sea views from Hirado Bridge and panoramic vistas from Hirado Castle offer emotions that can only be felt when touring by bicycle.

Hirado Route

Distance and Duration
Total Length: About 40km
Duration: About 3-4 hours

Model Route

Hirado Port → Hirado Bridge → Hirado Castle → Hirado Port

Highlights

  • Hirado Bridge: Beautiful red bridge with spectacular island views.
  • Hirado Castle: Historic site to experience Japanese history and culture.
Hirado Port Exchange Plaza

Parking Spots

Parking around Hirado Port: Convenient as Hirado’s gateway.

Cycle Pits & Rest Points

  • Shops and observation decks around Hirado Castle.

Precautions

  • Bridge areas can be windy, so exercise caution.
  • Many small roads on the island, so check routes in advance.

4. Yanagawa Waterway Cycling – Peaceful and Elegant Moments by the Water

A healing cycling course leisurely riding along Yanagawa’s waterways.

Yanagawa Waterways

This route along the waterways of Yanagawa, known as the “Water City,” offers wonderful harmony between peaceful waterside scenery and historic streetscapes in a healing journey. Taking a boat ride down the river during cycling is also delightful. Please enjoy this experience that lightens your heart in a leisurely atmosphere.

Yanagawa Route

Distance and Duration
Total Length: About 20km
Duration: About 2 hours

Model Route

Municipal Parking → Yanagawa Feudal Lord Tachibana Residence → Ohana Yanagawa Castle Ruins → Municipal Parking

Highlights

  • Yanagawa Castle Ruins: Historic waterways and beautiful scenery.
  • River Boat Ride: Temporarily park your bike and enjoy a boat journey – highly recommended.
Yanagawa and River Boat

Parking Spots

Municipal Parking: 300-500 yen per day (first hour free)

Cycle Pits & Rest Points

  • Tea houses and souvenir shops around Yanagawa Castle.

Precautions

  • Waterway paths are narrow, so be considerate of pedestrians.

5. Amakusa Cycling – Spectacular Views and Pleasant Sea Breeze Connecting Islands

Island hopping through Amakusa’s islands while cutting through the wind with style!

Amakusa Five Bridges No. 1

Amakusa is a cycling paradise where you can enjoy spectacular views woven by sea and islands up close. Rather than rushing through by car, slowly touring bridges and coastlines by bicycle allows you to taste its charms more deeply. Using an RV ensures time to enjoy Amakusa’s hot springs and local cuisine, guaranteeing a luxurious journey! Please enjoy Amakusa’s unique healing time while feeling the sea breeze.

Distance and Duration

  • Total Length: About 50km
  • Duration: 4-5 hours (including rest stops)

Model Route

Michi-no-Eki Kamiamakusa Sunpearl → Amakusa Five Bridges → Matsushima → Oyano → Michi-no-Eki Kamiamakusa Sunpearl


Highlights

  1. Amakusa Five Bridges (Pearl Line)
     Collective name for 5 bridges connecting Amakusa archipelago’s main islands. From the bridges, you can overlook emerald green seas and large and small islands, with emotions overflowing just from riding. The view from Bridge No. 2 “Oyano Bridge” is particularly spectacular!
  2. Matsushima (One of Japan’s Three Great Pine Islands)
     Beautiful area with scattered small islands. Stop your bike at viewpoints along the way to admire Amakusa Matsushima’s tranquil scenery – highly recommended.
  3. Oyano Area
     Area with peaceful fishing villages and abundant eateries serving fresh local seafood. You can refresh while experiencing the warm local atmosphere.

Reference: Amaichi Cycling Map

Amakusa Pearl Center

Parking Spots

  • Michi-no-Eki Kamiamakusa Sunpearl
     Popular roadside station serving as a base for Amakusa area tourism. Features spacious RV-compatible parking with complete facilities including restrooms, shops, and local specialty product corners. Convenient starting point.

Cycle Pits & Rest Points

  1. Benches and observation decks at Amakusa Five Bridges bridge approaches
     Rest spots where you can park your bike and relax while viewing the sea.
  2. Matsushima Hot Spring Resort
     Luxurious rest point where tired bodies can be healed in hot springs. Stopping at hot spring facilities for lunch and bathing is also recommended.
  3. Local fishing port direct sales
     Places where you can eat fresh seafood on the spot.
Amakusa Bridge No. 4 Maejima Bridge

Precautions

3 Key Precautions for Tourist Area Cycling
1 Watch for elevation changes on inter-island bridges
Inter-island bridges have elevation differences with some steep uphill sections, so electric-assist bicycles provide comfort.
Research bridge gradient information in advance and plan according to your fitness level.
Electric-assist bicycle rental services are available at many tourist destinations.
Take sufficient rest and hydration before uphill sections, and don’t hesitate to walk your bike when needed.
If you’re not used to hills, start with shorter courses on your first day.
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2 Prepare wind protection for coastal roads
Coastal roads often have strong winds, so prepare proper wind protection measures.
Special attention is needed on windy days; windbreaker jackets and ear warmers are recommended.
Carry lightweight, foldable windbreakers to handle weather changes.
Pay special attention to crosswinds and grip handlebars firmly with both hands.
Check wind direction and adjust course direction for tailwinds when possible.
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3 Reduce speed in high-tourist areas
Reduce speed and maintain safe riding in areas with many tourists.
Exercise special caution around tourist spots, prioritize pedestrians, and consider dismounting and walking when necessary.
Tourists taking photos often aren’t paying attention to surroundings, so maintain adequate distance.
Use bells appropriately and call out when passing for safety.
Avoid peak hours and cycle during less crowded times like early morning or evening.
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Conclusion

RV travel’s appeal lies in free movement at departure points and destinations. These cycling courses in Kyushu region offer diverse routes enjoyable from beginners to advanced riders. Please realize experiences of feeling nature and history firsthand with RVs and bicycles! Explore RV bicycle loading methods and essential items to expand your imagination.

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Raychell(レイチェル) 20インチ 折りたたみ自転車 FB-206R シマノ6段変速 フロントLEDライト付 カーキ

ABOUT ME
Traveltips Navigator
I have always wanted to travel in a campervan and have moved from staying in a minivan to buying a campervan. I am currently doing a lot of research for the purchase of a campervan. I am still a new guide, but I will use this opportunity to learn more and share this information with you.