Getting Around Beppu. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation Overview

Beppu's public transportation largely relies on its extensive bus network, operated mainly by Kamenoi Bus. These buses serve most major attractions, including the Beppu Hells, the Kintetsu Beppu Ropeway, Umitamago Aquarium, Takasakiyama Natural Zoological Garden, and various onsen areas, along with surrounding neighborhoods.

The system is reliable and covers a wide area.

Hubs & Ticketing

Main Hub: Beppu Station (East Exit bus terminal) for most routes.
Kannawa Bus Terminal: Important hub for visiting Beppu Hells.
Fares paid upon exiting the bus, take a numbered ticket upon boarding.
Pay with cash (exact change useful) or IC card (Suica, Pasmo, etc., accepted).

Bus Passes

Kamenoi Bus offers "My Beppu Free Pass" options: Wide Pass (¥1,700/1 day, ¥2,500/2 days) covers most tourist areas; Mini Pass (¥900/1 day, ¥1,500/2 days) covers central Beppu.

Hours & Frequency

Buses generally operate from early morning (around 6:00 AM) until late evening (around 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM). Major routes run every 10-20 minutes during peak hours.

Accessibility

Japan is improving accessibility. Newer buses feature low-floor designs and are generally wheelchair accessible. Inquire at Kamenoi Bus office for accessible routes.

Tips for Navigating Efficiently

Digital Assistance

Use Google Maps for accurate real-time bus information, including routes, stops, and predicted departure times.
Get an IC card (Suica, Pasmo, etc.) to save time and avoid carrying exact change.
If not using an IC card, have smaller bills or coins ready for your fare.

Bus Etiquette

Board from the rear door.
Exit from the front door.
Take a numbered ticket upon boarding from the rear.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Identification

Licensed taxis are identifiable by illuminated roof signs and distinctive colors.

Hailing

Hail on street, find at designated stands, or call by phone. Rear doors open automatically.

Fares

Metered fares. Starting fare ¥600-¥750. More expensive than buses.

Payment

Cash, credit cards, IC cards accepted. Carry some cash for smaller companies.

Rental Options

For greater flexibility in exploring Beppu and its surroundings, consider renting a vehicle.

Car Rental

Requirements: Valid International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention.
Obtain IDP in your home country before travel. Bring home country's driver's license and passport.
Major Companies: Toyota Rent a Car, Nippon Rent-A-Car, Orix Rent a Car, Times Car Rental.
Driving side: Japan drives on the left.

Motorcycle & Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals: Less common for tourists. May need specific motorcycle endorsement on IDP.
Bicycle Sharing/Rentals: Some hotels offer rentals. Dedicated sharing programs are limited.
Beppu has hilly areas; consider renting an electric bicycle.
Driving laws: Seatbelts mandatory. No driving under influence. Speed limits strictly enforced.

Road Conditions & Safety

Roads are excellent and well-maintained.
Parking is available at attractions and hotels, but it may incur a fee.
Public parking lots are available in the city center.

Traffic congestion can occur in urban areas, especially during peak hours.
Be aware of wildlife in rural areas, especially when driving at night.
No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians or cyclists.

Driving Laws & Pedestrian/Cyclist Areas

Driving Laws

Always follow local traffic laws and speed limits.

Pedestrian Areas

Beppu Station area and Kannawa area are pedestrian-friendly for walking.

Cycling Safety

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited. Cycling on sidewalks is permitted, but give priority to pedestrians.

Specialized Transportation

Beppu also holds unique transportation methods and services that enrich your sightseeing.

Tour Buses & Services

Jigoku Meguri buses: Specific tour buses visit the Beppu Hells.
A convenient way to see multiple Hells without navigating local buses yourself.
Local tour operators offer guided bus tours to regional attractions outside Beppu.
No boat taxis operate within Beppu's bay for general tourism. Ferries are for inter-city travel.

Cable Cars & Accessibility

Kintetsu Beppu Ropeway: Takes visitors up Mount Tsurumi.
Offers panoramic views of Beppu Bay and the city.
Accessibility Services: Japan continually improves its accessibility infrastructure.
Some onsen facilities have private baths that offer accessibility.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly

Beppu Station area and Kannawa area are relatively flat and easy to walk around. Beppu Park is also suitable for strolls.

Explore on foot.

Walking Tours

Many visitors follow a self-guided route for the Beppu Hells. Maps are available. Local tour operators may offer guided walking tours.

Informative walks.

Bicycle Safety

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited. Cycling on sidewalks is generally permitted but give priority to pedestrians. Hilly terrain makes electric bicycles a good choice.

Cycle with caution.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Options

Taxi Service

Taxis offer a convenient, albeit more expensive, option for getting around.
Easily hailed on the street or found at designated taxi stands (e.g., Beppu Station).
Fares are metered, starting from ¥600-¥750.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Uber operates in Beppu, connecting to local taxi companies. DiDi may also be available.
Taxis in Japan are extremely safe and reliable. Drivers are professional and polite.
Ride-sharing services partnered with licensed taxis maintain the same high safety standards.

Important Considerations for Taxi Use

Taxis are considerably more expensive than buses, especially for longer distances.
While many taxis accept credit cards or IC cards, it is a good idea to carry some cash.
Rear passenger doors often open and close automatically; do not attempt to open or close them manually.
Taxi stands are directly outside Beppu Station and Oita Airport.

A red light in the front window indicates the taxi is "vacant."
Usage of ride-sharing apps is less widespread than in larger international cities.
It still offers convenience for booking.
Explore Beppu's charm and unique atmosphere by walking or cycling.

Walking & Cycling Routes

Walking and cycling offer enjoyable ways to explore Beppu's charm and unique atmosphere.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Beppu Station area: Relatively flat and easy to walk around, with numerous shops and restaurants.
Kannawa area: Good for walking between some of the Beppu Hells, as several are clustered.
Beppu Park: A large, pleasant urban park perfect for strolls.
Yukemuri (steam) filled streets of Kannawa provide an atmospheric setting for leisurely walks.

Walking Tour Options

Self-guided tours: Many visitors follow a self-guided route for the Beppu Hells (Jigoku Meguri). Maps are available.
Guided tours: Some local tour operators offer walking tours focused on onsen history or local culture.
Inquire at the Beppu Tourist Information Center for available options.
Bicycle Infrastructure and Safety: Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited in Beppu. Cycling on sidewalks is permitted.

No-Go Areas & Special Transport

No-Go Areas

No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians and cyclists. Always exercise caution on busy roads without sidewalks.

Prioritize pedestrian safety if cycling on sidewalks.
Beppu features hilly terrain, cycling can be challenging.
An electric bicycle eases exploration.

Tour Buses

Jigoku Meguri buses operate, visiting the Beppu Hells. These offer a convenient way to see multiple Hells without self-navigation.

Local tour operators offer guided bus tours to regional attractions outside Beppu.
No boat taxis operate within Beppu's bay for general tourism.
Ferries are for inter-city travel.

Cable Cars

Kintetsu Beppu Ropeway: This cable car takes visitors up Mount Tsurumi, offering panoramic views of Beppu Bay and the city.

Provides an effortless way to reach the mountain peak for stunning vistas.
Japan continually improves accessibility.
Newer transportation infrastructure has accessibility features.

Accessibility & Safety Reminders

Accessibility Needs

For specific accessibility details, inquire directly with individual bus companies or attractions.
Some onsen facilities may have private baths that offer better accessibility.
Exercise caution on busy roads without dedicated sidewalks.

Cycling Reminders

Prioritize pedestrian safety if cycling on sidewalks.
Be aware of hilly areas that may pose a challenge for cycling.
Consider electric bicycles for easier uphill rides.

Final Transportation Tips

Beppu's local public transportation, mainly its bus network, is efficient for navigating the city's main attractions.

For destinations outside the city, trains and long-distance buses connect Beppu to the wider Kyushu region.

Getting Around Beppu