Course Information

Start: Arita Station (Arita Town)

Goal: Niji-no-Matsubara (Karatsu City)

DATA

Total Distance: Approximately 83 km

Total Elevation Gain: 974 m

SPOT INFORMATION

Tonbai Walls (Arita Town)

Tonbai refers to fire-resistant bricks originally used to construct climbing kilns. When these bricks became unnecessary, they were repurposed, along with discarded kiln tools, and coated with red clay to create what is now known as Tonbai Walls.

These walls have been built since the Edo period, and while their numbers have decreased over time, many can still be found along the backstreets from Izumiyama Benzaiten Shrine to the Arita Porcelain Museum in Ōtaru, the central part of town.

The oldest existing Tonbai Wall is believed to have been constructed around 1830, offering a glimpse into the unique atmosphere of Arita, a historic pottery town. These walls are frequently featured in magazines and TV shoots, making them an excellent spot for capturing photogenic pictures!

Additionally, within the grounds of Izumiyama Benzaiten Shrine, you'll find the Izumiyama Ginkgo Tree, estimated to be around 1,000 years old. This massive tree stands 30.5 meters tall with a root circumference of 12 meters, and is said to be the largest tree in Japan. It was already designated a National Natural Monument during the Taisho period.

The area is just a 2-3 minute bicycle ride from JR Kami-Arita Station, making it perfect for a leisurely pottering tour to experience the rich history and culture of Arita.

Spot Information

Address: Kamikōbei, Arita Town, Nishimatsuura District

Phone Number: 0955-43-2121 (Arita Tourism Association)

Website: https://www.arita.jp/spot/post_20.html

Hamanoura Rice Terraces (Genkai Town)

Recognized as one of Japan’s Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields, a Saga Prefecture Heritage Site, and part of the "Connected Terraced Rice Fields Heritage – A Legacy for the Future" initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, Hamanoura Rice Terraces has also been featured in publications such as "Breathtaking Views of the World to See Before You Die."

Facing the Genkai Sea, these rice terraces span 11.5 hectares, forming 283 rice paddies of varying sizes, stacked in multiple layers like steps. The scenery of these overlapping terraces transforms beautifully with time and weather, offering breathtaking natural views.

One of the most spectacular sights occurs from late April to early May, just after rice planting. During this period, the terraces glow orange under the setting sun, creating a truly mesmerizing landscape—one worthy of being called a "must-see view before you die."

Spot Information

Address: Hamanoura, Genkai Town, Higashimatsuura District

Phone Number: 0955-51-3007 (Genkai Town Regional Community Trading Company)

Business Hours: Open at all times

Website: https://www.town.genkai.lg.jp/site/kankou/1288.html

Hado Misaki (Hado Cape) – Karatsu City

The small Hado Cape, extending from the Higashimatsuura Peninsula, is a designated "Japan’s 100 Best Beaches", part of the Genkai Quasi-National Park, and recognized as a "Lover’s Sanctuary Satellite Site".

After enjoying the breathtaking scenery, be sure to try the local specialty, grilled turban shell (sazae no tsuboyaki)! Fresh turban shells and sun-dried squid, grilled right in front of you, are guaranteed to be an unforgettable treat.

Another must-see attraction is the Underwater Observation Tower, connected to Hado Cape by a pier. Standing 20 meters tall with a diameter of 9 meters, this facility features an underwater observation room at a depth of 7 meters, where 24 windows provide a fascinating view of schools of fish and marine vegetation. (Entrance fee: 1,000 yen)

From the tower’s ocean deck, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Genkai Sea islands. The scenery is particularly spectacular at sunset, making it an unforgettable spot to visit.

Spot Information

Address: 947 Hado, Chinzei-cho, Karatsu City

Phone Number: 0955-53-7155 (Karatsu City Chinzei Civic Center – Industry & Education Division)

Business Hours: Open at all times

Closed: No holidays

Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/00ecd501-157f-4301-96f1-cf08595b0ae7

Yobuko Ohashi Bridge (Karatsu City)

The town of Yobuko is blessed with a natural harbor and is famous for its live squid sashimi (Ika no Ikizukuri) and the Yobuko Morning Market, attracting visitors year-round for its fresh seafood.

One of the town’s most iconic landmarks is Yobuko Ohashi Bridge, which was selected as part of the "New Saga 100 Views" in 1998 (Heisei 10). This 728-meter-long cable-stayed bridge forms a beautiful arch resembling a harp. As you cycle along its gentle curve, you can take in its full scenic beauty.

Beyond the bridge lies Kabe Island, home to attractions such as Kaze no Mieru Oka Park (Wind-Viewing Hill Park) and Tajima Shrine, which is steeped in romance and legend related to Princess Sayohime of Matsuura. The island also offers various gourmet spots and sightseeing locations, making it a must-visit destination.

Spot Information

Address: Kabe Island, Yobuko Town, Karatsu City

Phone Number: 0955-53-7165 (Karatsu City Yobuko Civic Center)

Business Hours: Open at all times

Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/5dc5e3dd-3f6e-4c5d-8e8b-f72ff3980cea

Niji-no-Matsubara (Karatsu City)

Stretching along the coast of Karatsu Bay, Niji-no-Matsubara is a vast pine forest covering approximately 0.5 km in width and 4.5 km in length, with around one million black pine trees (Kuromatsu). It is considered one of Japan’s Three Great Pine Groves, alongside Miho no Matsubara and Kehi no Matsubara.

The origin of this forest dates back to the early 17th century, when Hirotaka Terasawa, the first lord of Karatsu Domain, planted black pines on the coastal sand dunes as a wind and tide protection measure.

Running through Niji-no-Matsubara is Prefectural Route 347, allowing cyclists to enjoy a leisurely ride surrounded by the vast pine forest. Along the way, you'll also find the famous "Karatsu Burger" food truck. Be sure to try this delicious handmade burger!

Spot Information

Address: From Higashi-Karatsu to Hamatama, Karatsu City

Phone Number: 0955-72-4963 (Karatsu Station General Tourist Information Center)

Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/a32d011b-20b3-46b7-95ea-604444826f92

Notes

Access to the Starting Point:

-From Arita: About an 8-minute walk from Kami-Arita Station

-From Karatsu: About a 15-minute walk from Hamasaki Station

Parking Near the Starting Point:

-From Arita: Free parking available near the Arita Tourism Association

-From Karatsu: Free parking available at Hamasaki Beach Multipurpose Parking Lot

Bicycle Rental Shops Near the Starting Point:

・KILN ARITA (Tourist Information Center)

-Phone: 0955-42-4052

-Rental Fees:Electric-assist bicycle: 1,000 yen per use (Deposit: 1,000 yen, refunded upon return) Standard bicycle: 500 yen per use

-Helmet: Free

-Rental Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

・Arita-kan (Arita Tourism Association)

-Phone: 0955-43-2121

-Rental Fees:

-Standard bicycle: 500 yen per use

-Helmet: Free

-Rental Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

・Kami-Arita Station (Harada Liquor Store)

-Phone: 0955-42-3323

-Rental Fees:

-Standard bicycle: 500 yen per use

-Helmet: Free

-Rental Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

-Closed on Sundays

・KILN ARITA Tourist Information Center

-Phone: 0955-43-2121

-Website: https://www.arita.jp/

・General Incorporated Association Genkai Town Regional Community Trading Company

-Phone: 0955-51-3007

-Website: https://all-genkai.jp/

・Chinzei Tourist Information Center

-Phone: 0955-51-1052

-Website: https://www.asobo-saga.jp/spots/detail/8758a2b2-6eb7-4a0e-9a9c-405f48fc76b0

・Yobuko Tourist Information Center

-Phone: 0955-82-3426

-Website: https://www.karatsu-kankou.jp/spots/detail/589/

・Karatsu Station General Tourist Information Center

-Phone: 0955-72-4963

-Website: https://www.karatsu-kankou.jp/spots/detail/247/

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.