Thursday, October 10, 2024, to Sunday, October 13, 2024
Fukuoka Now is seeking 10 enthusiastic cyclists (non-Japanese residents of Japan only) to join an exclusive 4-day cycling tour of Kyushu, which includes attending the thrilling finishes of two stages of the Tour de Kyushu. This unique opportunity is part of a test marketing initiative to promote cycling tours to international audiences in Japan. We’re looking for participants who are passionate about cycling, have relevant experience, and are eager to provide constructive feedback during and after the tour. Additionally, participants should be willing and able to share their experiences on social media. As a token of appreciation for your participation, the entire tour is free of charge. To apply, please complete the form below. Only selected applicants will be notified. The first application deadline is September 2, 13:00. Preference will be give to applicants in groups of two (twin room occupancy), but individual applicants are also very welcome (single room basis)
Application form: Closed
Tour Overview
• Meals Included: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
• Tour Escort: Accompanied by a English speaking tour conductor
• Cycling Guide: Accompanied by a professional cycling guide
• Bus Company: Nishi-Nippon Railroad (Nishitetsu)*
• Accommodation: As listed in the itinerary
• Cost: Participation in this monitor tour is free. Includes: charter bus fare, accommodation, meals and sightseeing as listed in the itinerary, insurance.
Important Notes
• The itinerary is subject to change or may be shortened due to traffic conditions, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances.
• If severe weather (such as heavy rain, typhoon, or road freezing) is anticipated, the tour may be canceled by the evening of the previous day. The tour will proceed in light rain if it is safe to do so.
• Insurance will be provided by the company to cover the possibility of injury from falls or other accidents.
• This is a monitor tour, so please review the application conditions carefully before applying.
• Transportation to and from Hakata Station (Fukuoka, City) is NOT included.
Application Conditions
• Open only to foreign nationals or foreign residents of Japan 20 years of age and older.
• Participants are required to provide feedback about the tour share information on social media during or after the tour
Itinerary
Day 1- Oct. 10 (Thu.)
• Meeting Point: Hakata Station at 13:00, Departure at 13:10
• Destination: Kurokawa Onsen
• Activities: Free to explore after check-in
• Accommodation: Stay at Yusai (Japanese-Western style rooms/Japanese-style rooms) or Nanjoen (Japanese-style rooms)
• Meals: Dinner provided
Day 2 Oct. 11 (Fri.)
• Morning: Breakfast at the ryokan
• Cycling Route: Makinoto Pass → Chojabaru (approx. 60 km)
• End Point: Amagase Onsen
• Accommodation: Stay at Ukiha Bekkan Shinshiyo (Japanese-style rooms)
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided
Day 3 Oct. 12 (Sat.)
• Morning: Breakfast at the ryokan
• Cycling Route: Oyama Town → Hita City Hall (approx. 13 km)
• Activity: Watch “Tour de Kyushu Oita Stage” after arrival
• Cycling Route: Senomoto Rest House → Aso Shrine (approx. 20 km)
• Accommodation: Stay at Aso Resort Hotel Grandvrio (Western-style rooms)
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch (meal coupons), and dinner provided
Day 4 Oct. 13 (Sun.)
• Morning: Breakfast at the hotel
• Cycling Route: Michi-no-Eki Aso → Kusasenri (approx. 10 km)
• Activities: Free exploration at Kusasenri, followed by cycling from Komezuka Shita Enchi to Kumamoto Golf Club (approx. 3 km)
• Final Stop: Watch “Tour de Kyushu Kumamoto Stage” at Minami Aso Village Hall
• Return: Arrive at Hakata Station around 17:00
• Meals: Breakfast and lunch (meal coupons) provided
©熊本県観光連盟
Kurokawa Onsen town scenery
ツール・ド・九州２０２４実行委員会
On Days 3 and 4, the group will experience the excitement and festivities at the fan zones of the Oita and Kumamoto stage finishes of the Tour de Kyushu 2024.
Bicycle Information
The use of the Nishitetsu Cycle Cargo bus, which allows us to load fully assembled bicycles onto the same bus we’ll be riding in, has been confirmed. This means you are encouraged to bring your own bicycle. If you prefer to rent one, the organizers will make bicycles available for approximately ¥3,000 to ¥5,000 per day.
On Day 4, the route includes narrow and steep roads. For this portion, the organizers will provide suitable e-bikes for everyone, free of charge.
Note: Pre-registration is required for rental bicycles.
Day 2-3 (Paid):
• Available at Senomoto Rest House
• Limited quantities of each bicycle type are available, so please apply early.
• Types: Cross Bike, Road Bike, e-Bike City (limited frame sizes; taller riders should inquire in advance)
Day 4 (Free E-bikes for Steep Mountain Section):
• Available at Michi-no-Eki Aso
• Supports the steep climb from Michi-no-Eki Aso to Kusasenri.
• Type: e-Bike
Please provide your height when applying. Helmets will be provided, so no need to worry.
Cycling Route Overview
Day 2: Makinoto Pass ~ Chojabaru
Starting from Makinoto Pass, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts from all over the country, the route follows the Tour de Kyushu course to JR Hikiji Station, passing through Kyusuikei Gorge and the Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi Bridge. The final stretch from Iida Highlands towards the Kuju Mountain Range offers breathtaking views.
Day 3 (Morning): Oyama Town ~ Hita City Hall
This section features a mountainous course, where you can feel the serenity of the forest and the gentle sound of flowing rivers. The route also passes by spots related to “Attack on Titan” before heading into Hita City. As the route approaches Hita City Hall, where the Tour de Kyushu event will be taking place, you can enjoy the increasing excitement and energy.
Day 3 (Afternoon): Senomoto Rest House ~ Aso Shrine
Starting from Senomoto Rest House, the route takes you along the Yamanami Highway, where you can experience the grandeur of Aso. As you ride towards Shiroyama Observatory, the scenic view of the Aso Caldera gradually unfolds before you, eventually leading to Aso Shrine, which is also part of the Tour de Kyushu course.
Day 4: Michi-no-Eki Aso ~ Kusasenri
Komezuka Shita Enchi ~ Kumamoto Golf Club
The route starts from Michi-no-Eki Aso, a gateway for Aso tourism, and continues uphill along the stunning Aso Panorama Line. You’ll enjoy the majestic scenery of the grasslands and grazing cattle and horses as you push towards Kusasenri at an altitude of approximately 1,100 meters. At Kusasenri, you’ll be surrounded by the vast nature of Aso, including the smoking Mt. Nakadake and a large pond. After a break, you’ll experience the downhill ride, feeling the wind of the grasslands.
As mentioned above, routes, schedules, and other details are subject to change. This page will be updated as soon as new information is made available by the organizers.
Links:
Tour de Kyushu event information on Fukuoka Now
Tour de Kyushu official website