A Practical 2-Day Tour from Fukuoka: Beppu, Takachiho, and Yufuin

This 2-day guided minibus tour from Fukuoka offers a well-balanced mix of Japan’s famous hot springs, mythological shrines, and scenic landmarks. For around $2,273.75 per group (up to 15 people), you’ll explore Beppu’s steaming hot springs and hells, admire the spectacular KOKONOE YUME OTSURIHASH, and visit Takachiho’s sacred shrines and gorge. Your guide, who speaks English, will handle all the driving, tolls, and parking fees, freeing you to focus on soaking in the sights and learning about Japan’s mythic heritage.

We love how this tour combines authentic local experiences with stunning scenery — especially the KOKONOE YUME OTSURIHASH, Japan’s tallest suspension bridge for pedestrians, and the Hells of Beppu, which are as visually striking as they are fascinating. Plus, the flexibility of a private group means you can enjoy these attractions at your own pace. However, it’s worth noting that meals and accommodations are not included, so plan to book your own hotel in Beppu beforehand.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy cultural sites, natural wonders, and scenic drives. It’s ideal for those who want a guided experience covering multiple highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or entrance fees. If you’re comfortable with a full schedule and appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path Japan, this tour will suit you well.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering Beppu, Takachiho, Yufuin, and KOKONOE Bridge.
Private, guided minibus ensures comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention.
Focus on cultural sites and natural scenery, including mythological shrines and geothermal wonders.
Cost includes transportation, tolls, and parking, but meals and entrance fees are separate.
Ideal for small groups seeking an efficient, immersive experience.
Requires own hotel reservation in Beppu, as accommodation is not included.

Exploring Beppu and Takachiho: What You Can Expect

Traveling from Fukuoka, this tour takes you first to Beppu, a city famous for its hot springs and steaming “hells”. As you step off the minibus, you’ll immediately notice the plumes of steam rising into the sky, a sight that’s both impressive and oddly soothing. Beppu’s hot springs produce more water than any other place in Japan, making it a geothermal wonderland. The Jigoku Meguri, a collection of seven colorful and uniquely charactered hot springs, is a key highlight, and for around $20, you can get a glimpse of each — although soaking isn’t permitted in the hells themselves.

What makes Beppu especially interesting is the contrast between these visually dramatic geothermal features and the more traditional thermal baths. The tour includes toll and parking fees, making it easier for you to focus on enjoying the sights rather than logistics. You might also visit Yunotsubo Kaido, a charming street lined with shops, cafes, and hot springs, leading to Lake Kinrinko, a peaceful spot perfect for photos and a leisurely stroll.

Next, the journey heads toward Takachiho, a deeply mythic site surrounded by lush landscape. Here, you’ll visit shrines dedicated to gods of Japanese mythology, with the opportunity to learn about Japan’s spiritual history. The highlight is likely the Takachiho Gorge, where a rental boat (cost not included in the tour fee, about ¥4100 for up to 3 people) takes you through breathtaking cliffs and waterfalls. The gorge is particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset, but even during the day, the towering basalt walls and tranquil water make it a must-see.

One of the unique features of this tour is a visit to KOKONOE YUME OTSURIHASH, the highest suspension bridge for pedestrians in Japan, opened in 2006. At 390 meters long and 173 meters high, the bridge offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The experience of walking across this engineering marvel is both exhilarating and a bit nerve-wracking, making it a memorable part of your trip.

The final day includes visits to Yufuin, a laid-back hot spring town that’s perfect for an afternoon stroll. You’ll enjoy the Yunotsubo Kaido Street, where you can browse artisanal shops or relax in a café overlooking scenic scenery. The tour provides a great balance of nature, culture, and relaxation, suited for travelers who want both sightseeing and authentic local flavor.

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Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: Beppu and Takachiho

The day begins early at 7:30 am in Fukuoka, with a comfortable minibus ride led by an English-speaking guide. The small group size, capped at 15, helps create a friendly atmosphere, where you can ask questions or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Your first stop is Beppu, a city that’s visually striking — steam rising from the ground, bubbling hot springs, and colorful geysers. You’ll have time to explore the Jigoku Meguri and take in the sights. Although soaking isn’t allowed in the hells themselves, you might find the steaming landscapes fascinating and unlike anything you’ve seen elsewhere.

After a quick lunch (which you’ll need to arrange on your own), the journey continues toward Takachiho. Here, the landscape shifts to lush greenery, and the spiritual sites become the focus. You can visit the Takachiho Shrine, a sacred site with a history tied to Japanese gods, and take in the mythic atmosphere. The gorge itself is a highlight — a stunning natural formation carved by ancient volcanic activity.

Day 2: KOKONOE YUME OTSURIHASH and Yufuin

On the second day, your guide will take you to KOKONOE YUME OTSURIHASH, Japan’s tallest pedestrian suspension bridge. Walking across this 390-meter-long structure promises incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s an experience that’s both thrilling and offers superb photographic opportunities.

Later, you’ll visit Yufuin, where the relaxed ambiance is perfect for winding down. The Yunotsubo Kaido Street is a delightful place to stroll, with shops, galleries, and hot springs. Should you choose to include the rental boat at Takachiho Gorge, it will be a peaceful yet exhilarating experience to glide through the basalt cliffs and waterfalls.

The tour wraps up with a return to Fukuoka in the evening, ending a journey filled with natural beauty, cultural discovery, and a taste of Japan’s geothermal energy.

Practical Considerations

While this tour offers excellent value for a guided experience, there are some points to consider. The price covers transportation, tolls, and parking, but meals, entrance fees for some attractions, and accommodations are not included. This means you’ll need to plan ahead for lodging in Beppu, which can be especially important if you want to enjoy the hot springs overnight.

The flexibility of a private group allows you to customize some parts of your day, but the overall schedule is fairly packed. Early start times and a full itinerary mean you should be prepared for a day of sightseeing and walking.

Weather can influence the experience — the tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions could lead to cancellations or rescheduling. In such cases, you’re entitled to a full refund or a date change, which adds a layer of security.

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Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This guided tour is perfect for small groups or families who want to see some of Kyushu’s most iconic sites without the hassle of organizing transport. It’s suitable for travelers interested in geothermal wonders, mythology, and scenic landscapes, and those who appreciate a comfortable, guided experience. History buffs, nature lovers, and curious adventurers will find plenty to enjoy here.

If you’re on a tight budget, note that meals and entrance fees are extra, so you’ll want to budget accordingly. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to linger longer at specific sites, this schedule might feel a bit rushed. However, for those seeking a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Beppu and Takachiho, this tour offers solid value.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day guided trip from Fukuoka offers a convenient way to explore the geothermal and mythic heart of Kyushu. You’ll see beating hot springs, walk across Japan’s highest suspension bridge, and discover legendary shrines steeped in Japanese folklore. The small-group setting, coupled with an experienced guide, creates a personalized experience that balances sightseeing, learning, and relaxation.

While you should plan for extra expenses like meals and accommodations, the tour’s transport and entry fees are included, making it easier to enjoy the highlights without stress. The combination of natural beauty and cultural richness ensures that this experience feels authentic and memorable.

This tour appeals most to travelers who value cultural insights, enjoy scenic landscapes, and want an efficient, guided adventure through Japan’s fascinating Kyushu region. If you’re ready for a full, enriching experience packed with spectacular sights and cultural stories, this is a trip worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the price covers one 7-meter minibus with a driver and guide, including tolls and parking fees.

Do I need to book my own hotel in Beppu?
Yes, you need to arrange your own accommodation in Beppu as the tour price does not include hotel fees.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to make your own reservations.

Can I visit the hot springs in Beppu?
While the tour visits the Hells (which are too hot to soak in), you can find local onsen spots in Beppu to enjoy a traditional bath experience.

What entrance fees are not included?
Entry to Takachiho Gorge’s rental boat costs about ¥4100–¥5100, and the Kokonoe suspension bridge costs around 500 yen.

How long is the KOKONOE YUME OTSURIHASH bridge?
It is 390 meters long and 173 meters high, offering stunning panoramic views.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for families with older children who can handle a busy schedule and walking, and who appreciate cultural and scenic sites.