Beautiful Gorge & Town Cycle: Through The Rural Beauty of Japan
Joined 2025
Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Yabakei on our guided cycling tour. Experience the refreshing breeze and stunning vistas as you pedal along dedicated cycling paths and charming rural roads. Led by an experienced English-speaking guide, this adventure offers a unique perspective on this picturesque region of Oita Prefecture.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Bungo Mori Station
- The station is located on the JR Kyudai Line, spanning over the major attractions (Beppu / Yufuin / Hakata) in Northern Kyushu. Pick-up from the other location could be available.
Yabakei Cycling Terminal. Rent your bicycle and step on pedal!
Rent your bicycle on your expense. Choose they best fitting bike from various selections: e-bikes, mountain bikes, kids bikes etc.
Yabakei Bridge
The Yabakei Bridge stands as an elegant testament to early 20th-century engineering and a picturesque landmark of the Yabakei region. Constructed in 1923, this beautiful stone arch bridge gracefully spans the clear waters of the Yamakuni River. Its classic design and the surrounding natural scenery make it a popular spot for photographs and contemplation. As you cycle towards the bridge, take a moment to appreciate its architectural beauty and the tranquil setting. The gentle flow of the river and the backdrop of verdant hills create a postcard-perfect scene. Your guide will point out interesting features of the bridge's construction and its importance as a local landmark.
Ao-no-Domon (Blue Tunnel)
Prepare to be amazed by the Ao-no-Domon, or Blue Tunnel, a remarkable feat of human perseverance. Carved by the Buddhist monk Zenkai over 30 years in the 18th century, this 185-meter tunnel was created to provide a safer passage through a treacherous cliff face. Legend has it that Zenkai undertook this arduous task to atone for a past deed. Cycling through this historic tunnel offers a tangible connection to the past and a sense of awe at the dedication of one individual. The surrounding rock formations and the Yamakuni River flowing alongside add to the dramatic beauty of this site. Your guide will share the captivating story of Zenkai and the significance of the Ao-no-Domon in the history of Yabakei.
Lunch at a local restaurant
Furu-Rakan
Discover the serene remnants of Furu-Rakan, a historic temple site nestled along the cycling route. Carved into the cliff face, these weathered stone Buddhas and temple ruins evoke a sense of tranquility and the passage of time. While the temple is no longer fully intact, the remaining carvings offer a glimpse into the spiritual past of the Yabakei area. The natural rock formations and the surrounding forest create a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. Take a moment to explore the site and imagine the monks who once resided here.
Return bicycles
Ending Point
JR Bungo Mori Station
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Drive & Guide fee = your guide will drive a car
Transportation by a private car (Nissan "Serena")
Fuel, parking fees, toll fees
Rental bicycles + Helmets: JPY700-1500 per bicycle for day use.
Meals (guide & members)
Tour Important Information
*This tour involves cycling + walking for 2-3 hours. Participants with severe motive issues or health concerns NOT allowed to join the tour.
*Wheelchair NOT accessible.
Important message from the supplier
I'm mainly based in Oita Prefecture, where Yufuin/Beppu are located, guiding guests much more frequently. I'm also available for guiding outside these areas if paying my travelling costs is affordable for you.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2025
About Tour Guide Kei H.
Hi, I'm Keita (KEI)! Your friendly local guide ready to show you the real Japan.
I've been working in tourism for years and love sharing my passion for this beautiful country with visitors.From bustling cities to hidden gems, I'll create a personalized itinerary that suits your interests.
Whether you're a foodie, history buff, or nature lover, I can help you experience the best of Japan.Let's create unforgettable memories together!
Kyushu, the southern island of Japan, is well-known for rich nature & hot springs.
Reviews
Anthony G.
“If there is one thing that you must do in Beppu is book Kei for your guide.”
The first thing you must do when visiting Beppu is book Kei to be your guide. We had a fantastic day out with Kei, he escorted us to all the sites we want to see and also modified his tour to accommodate our requests. His knowledge of all the places we visited was exceptional. I don’t think we could have seen so much without his expertise. He knew all the spots for photos of all the main attractions, most of them we would not have found without him. Thank you for a wonderful day it was a pleasure to meet you and an unforgettable day in Beppu, all the best for the future, Anthony and Janet.
Kei H.
Hi Anthony-san, I'm very glad to go on our venture with multi-multinational gangs. It's so funny how it was Day 1 for each of us, making the day such a special. Thank you for being talkative, easy-going and cooperative, which helped the tour going very effectively. Hope you have a pleasant trip in Japan & Korea.
Kelly C.
“Didn't know there is so much to see in Usuki”
We were so glad we hired Kei to be our tour. He was very thoughtful from the very beginning. There was a closure on the highway and he was willing to provide the flexibility to suggest an earlier departure. He was very thoughtful to go with an easier path knowing my dad has a bad knee. Usuki is very different from other popular tourist attractions. We did not feel this place was heavily commercialized, so we could submerge ourselves in its history and the locals' daily lives. Kei introduced us to Usuki more like a friend who is passionate about his home prefecture. He could tell you a lot about Oita. Kei did not end his work day by simply dropping us off at the hotel; he even made great suggestions for what we could do in the afternoon on our own and shared some dinner recommendations with us. Thank you, Kei.
Kei H.
I greatly appreciate that you chose Oita again to travel. In person I'm very excited to explore the off-the-beaten place, and having the immersion into the local area together with you and your dad. What a Lovely family! Have a pleasant trip.
Roxanne R.
“Fun day packed with activities”
We had a great 6h tour with Kei in Beppu. He met us at our hotel with his van for a driving tour. We started with a great lunch at a local spot by the traditional bath salt production area and saw 3 of the most beautiful hot spring hells. He also accommodated a visit to the monkey park even though that wasn't in our original agenda. Then we finished with a stop at an amazing observation tower that overlooked all of Beppu. Kei's English was very good and easy to understand as Americans. We had opportunities for souvenir shopping as well. I thought the value was great especially to include him driving the four of us around.
Kei H.
Hi Roxanne ('Rokusanu')-san and friends! I was thrilled to record the most number of visits within 6 hours, and we actually made it! Thank you for being so nice and thoughtful every moment we had. It's an absolutely fun moment with your party friends. Have a wonderful holiday in Japan.
$331/ per group
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