Course Information

Start: Kitsuki Furusato Sangyo-kan

Goal: Kitsuki Furusato Sangyo-kan

DATA

Total Distance: 78 km

Average Incline (Ascent): 1.1%

Average Decline (Descent): 1.1%

Total Elevation Gain (Ascent): 1,122 m

Total Elevation Loss (Descent): 1,122 m

SPOT INFORMATION

Starting Point: Kitsuki Furusato Sangyo-kan

This facility is well-equipped for rental cycling, offering not only standard bicycles but also sport-type E-BIKES for rent.

You can also borrow a charger, ensuring a worry-free 2-day, 1-night cycling trip.

In addition to renting bikes, the center sells local specialties from Kitsuki City and provides tourist information, making it the perfect place to prepare for your journey!

E-BIKE reservations must be made in advance online:

https://select-type.com/rsv/?id=5JrntSer7GE&c_id=248792&w_flg=1

Spot Information

Address: 665-172 Oaza Kitsuki, Kitsuki City

Phone Number: 0978-62-2000

Business Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Closed: December 31 – January 2

Website: Kitsuki City Official Site

https://www.city.kitsuki.lg.jp/soshiki/1/syoukou_kankou/kanko/kankousisetu/1026.html

Facilities Available

・Bicycle Stands

・Air Pumps

・Repair Tools

・Restrooms

・Tourist Information

Kitsuki Castle Town

Kitsuki Castle Town is known as Japan’s only "sandwich-style castle town."

During the Edo period, merchants lived along Tanimachi Street, which ran through the valley, while samurai residences were located on the slopes to the north and south.

When viewed from above, the V-shaped terrain resembles a sandwich, giving the town its unique nickname.

The view from the hilltop is both dynamic and highly photogenic.

This rare landscape has been featured in movies and TV dramas, including the famous "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" series.

Take your time and enjoy a leisurely cycling tour through Kitsuki Castle and its castle town, where you can still catch a glimpse of the lives of samurai and townspeople from the Edo period.

Spot Information

Address: Kitsuki City, Kitsuki

Phone Number: 0978-63-0100 (Kitsuki City Tourism Association)

Business Hours: Open at all times

Closed: No holidays

Website: https://www.kit-suki.com/tourism/index.php?action=story&sub_cat_id=3

Facilities Available

・Toilets

・Tourist Information

Burger Stand Masakano – A Must-Stop Cycle-Friendly Spot Along Nata Coast

If you're cycling along Nata Coast, be sure to stop by Burger Stand Masakano, a highly recommended cycle-friendly restaurant.

Their signature burgers feature a juicy 150g patty sandwiched in a 12cm bun, creating an irresistible treat. The menu offers a variety of delicious options, including salmon fry with avocado tartar sauce, cheese cream burgers loaded with melted cheese, and more—making it hard to choose just one!

In addition to burgers, they also serve muffins, parfaits packed with fresh strawberries, and seasonal treats like shaved ice during the hotter months.

Take a break, enjoy the breathtaking view of the blue ocean in front of you, and satisfy your appetite!

Spot Information

Address: 883 Oaza Nata, Kitsuki City

Phone Number: 080-3981-0622

Business Hours: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Closed: Sundays, Fridays, 2nd & 4th Mondays, and Public Holidays

Website: http://masakano.chillout.jp/

Facilities Available

・Bicycle Stand

・Repair Tools

・Toilets

・Drink Refills

Hachiman Nata Shrine

Located near the center of Nata Coast, Hachiman Nata Shrine is said to have deep ties to Usa Jingu Shrine.

The exact date of its founding is unknown, but according to legend, it was established in 729 (Shinki 6) as a branch shrine of Usa Jingu, making it a site with a very long history.

Among its enshrined deities, two are female goddesses, which is why the shrine is believed to bring blessings for romance, matchmaking, and reconciliation.

Interestingly, the original site of Hachiman Nata Shrine is a small island offshore, where a torii gate stands atop rocky terrain.

The view of this torii gate from the shrine is a must-see! In addition, the striking contrast between the torii by the sea and the deep blue waters of Suo-nada Bay creates a breathtaking and spiritually uplifting scene.

Spot Information

Address: 229 Oaza Nata, Kitsuki City

Phone Number: 0978-63-0100 (Kitsuki City Tourism Association)

Business Hours: Open at all times

Closed: No holidays

Website: https://www.instagram.com/hachiman_nadagu/

Futago-ji Temple

When discussing the history of the Kunisaki Peninsula, Futago-ji Temple is an essential landmark.

Famous for autumn foliage and prayers for fertility, Futago-ji was founded in 718 (Nara period) and serves as the head temple of Rokugo-Manzan, a sacred site of Shugendo (mountain asceticism).

One of the most striking sights here is the pair of 245cm-tall stone Nio guardian statues standing on both sides of the stone steps leading to the temple.

It is said that rubbing the feet of these Nio statues strengthens your legs, making this temple a true power spot for cyclists.

The temple grounds are surrounded by rich nature and have been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Forest Bathing Sites. Cultural properties are also scattered throughout the area, making it a scenic and spiritually enriching destination in all seasons, not just during spring greenery or autumn foliage.

Spot Information

Address: 1548 Futago, Aki-machi, Kunisaki City

Phone Number: 0978-65-0253

Business Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Admission Fee: 300 yen

Closed: During severe weather (e.g., typhoons, heavy snowfall)

Website: http://www.futagoji.jp/

Facilities Available

・Toilets

Tashibu-no-Sho Observatory

Tashibu-no-Sho in Bungotakada City has maintained its ancient rice fields and village layout for over 1,000 years since the enactment of the Kon-den Ei-nen Shizai Law in 743 (Nara period), when it was established as a manor of Usa Hachimangu Shrine.

The Osaki district is the only place where this historic landscape has been preserved in its original form, making it an extremely rare and valuable sight in Japan.

These rice fields, which represent the quintessential scenery of Japan, offer different breathtaking views depending on the season, weather, and time of day. It’s always exciting to see what kind of scenery awaits you when you visit!

Spot Information

Address: Tashibu Osaki, Bungotakada City

Phone Number: 0978-25-6219 (Bungotakada City Commerce & Tourism Division)

Business Hours: Open at all times

Closed: No holidays

Website: https://showanomachi.com/special/tashibu.html

Notes

・Access to the starting point: Take a bus from Kitsuki Station to Kitsuki Bus Terminal (about 10 minutes), then walk about 2 minutes.

・Parking near the starting point: Available (Free)

・Bicycle rental shop near the starting point: Kitsuki Furusato Sangyo-kan

・Rental fees:

-Electric-assist bicycle: 2,000 yen/day

-Other bicycles: 1,000 yen/day

-Helmet: Free

・Rental shop contact: Kitsuki Furusato Sangyo-kan (0978-62-2000)

・Tourist information near the course:

Kitsuki Furusato Sangyo-kan (0978-62-2000)

Website: https://www.city.kitsuki.lg.jp/soshiki/1/syoukou_kankou/kanko/kankousisetu/1026.html

How to Enjoy Your Trip

・Health and Safety: Ensure that you have the stamina for long rides and follow all safety guidelines.

・Gear Preparation: Wear appropriate cycling clothing and shoes, and bring essentials like sunscreen and rain gear as needed.

・Respect for Culture: When experiencing local life or participating in activities, be mindful of local customs and traditions.

・Environmental Protection: Respect nature and make sure not to leave any waste behind during your trip.

・Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to have travel insurance to cover any accidents or medical needs.

By following these basic guidelines, you can enjoy cycling in Kyushu with peace of mind.