Kyushu Motorcycle Touring Guide | Best Routes & Highlights in Japan

Kyushu: Japan’s Most Diverse Island for Motorcycle Touring

Kyushu is a large island that feels like a condensed version of everything that makes motorcycle touring in Japan special. It is a popular long-distance touring destination for riders from the Kanto and Kansai regions, especially during long weekends and summer holidays.
When planning a Japan Moto Touring route in Kyushu, it is helpful to think of the island in three main touring areas.

1. Southern Kyushu – Kagoshima & Miyazaki

Southern Kyushu is one of the warmest regions in Japan, and along the coastline you can often enjoy riding even in winter.
The dramatic scenery of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay is a highlight for any rider.

Both Kagoshima and Miyazaki also feature several historic castle towns with streets preserved from the Edo period, allowing visitors to feel as though they have stepped back in time.


2. Central Kyushu – Kumamoto & Oita

The greatest attraction in this area is Mount Aso, home to one of the largest calderas in the world.
The sweeping views across the Aso caldera are world-class, and the route from Kumamoto through Aso and on to Yufuin in Oita is one of the must-ride courses for anyone touring Japan.

This area offers some of the most iconic scenery in Japanese motorcycle touring.


3. Northern Kyushu – Nagasaki, Saga & Fukuoka

This region is best enjoyed by combining coastal touring with local ferries.
Ride the winding coastal roads and then take a short ferry to reach the opposite peninsula, allowing you to link multiple scenic touring areas in one trip.

Ferry travel adds variety and helps create a unique touring rhythm.


Planning Your Kyushu Motorcycle Tour

Kyushu contains several major cities, and traffic can be heavy in certain areas.
Choosing the right routes is essential for enjoying a smooth and memorable motorcycle tour in Japan.
Mototourist can help you design a plan that matches your preferred areas, schedule, and riding style.

TOP