Kyushu to Hiroshima Motorcycle Touring Route (via Aso & Shikoku)

Ride from Kyushu to Hiroshima via Aso and Shikoku

Experience Japan’s most scenic mountain roads, island crossings, and cultural landmarks — all in one unforgettable motorcycle journey.

This model route starts in Fukuoka, crosses the spectacular mountains of Aso in Kyushu, continues through Shikoku, and finishes in Hiroshima.

It features some of Japan’s most iconic riding roads, including:

• The dramatic winding roads of Aso
• Scenic mountain routes in Shikoku
• The famous Shimanami Kaido island crossing
• A cultural visit to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

This is a highly varied and memorable motorcycle journey that combines nature, history, and outstanding riding roads.

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9-Day Itinerary Overview

Day 1 — Fukuoka → Hita

Pick up your rental motorcycle in Fukuoka.
Ride toward the historic town of Hita, known for its well-preserved old streets.
Overnight stay in Hita.

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Day 2 — Hita → Kumamoto (Aso)

Ride through rural areas with terraced rice fields and old stone bridges on the way to Mount Aso.
Enjoy the spectacular winding roads across the Aso caldera.
Overnight stay at the foot of Aso.

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Day 3 — Kumamoto (Aso) → Beppu

Return to the Aso area and ride the famous Yamanami Highway toward Yufuin.
Continue through beautiful mountain scenery to Beppu, one of Japan’s most famous hot spring towns.
Overnight stay in Beppu (onsen).

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Day 4 — Beppu → Ozu (Shikoku)

Take a ferry from Oita to Shikoku.
Ride to the historic castle town of Ozu.
Overnight stay in Ozu.

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Day 5 — Ozu → Oshima (Shimanami Kaido)

Ride through Shikoku’s scenic mountain roads, including the Shikoku Karst.
Continue to the Shimanami Kaido island route.
Overnight stay on Oshima Island.

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Day 6 — Oshima → Hiroshima

Enjoy the island scenery of the Shimanami Kaido while riding toward Onomichi.
Cross to Honshu and continue on to Hiroshima City.
Overnight stay in Hiroshima.

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Day 7 — Hiroshima → Hiroshima (Rest Day)

A full day in Hiroshima.
Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, or take a side trip to Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine).
Second night in Hiroshima.

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Day 8 — Hiroshima → Hagi

Ride along old highways through the Chugoku region.
Reach the historic castle town of Hagi, located on the Sea of Japan coast.
Overnight stay in Hagi.

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Day 9 — Hagi → Fukuoka

Ride along the beautiful coastline of the Sea of Japan.
Cross back into Kyushu and return to Fukuoka.
Return the rental motorcycle and end the tour.

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Why This Route Is Special

• Combines Kyushu, Shikoku, and Honshu in one journey
• Features Japan’s best riding roads: Aso, Shikoku Karst, Shimanami Kaido
• Includes both natural scenery and cultural highlights
• Balanced daily distances for relaxed touring
• Ideal for riders who want variety: mountains, coastlines, islands, and history

Seasonal Notes (Important)

Japan has several peak travel periods when availability is limited and prices are higher, especially:

• Golden Week (late April – early May)
• Obon holidays (mid-August)
• Autumn long weekends (September–October)

During these periods:

• Accommodations can sell out quickly
• Accommodation and transport costs are higher than usual
• Early planning is strongly recommended

We can still arrange tours during peak seasons, but flexible dates and route options help ensure availability.