Kuju Mountains and Yamanami Highway Scenic Drive Course

Endless grasslands and the proudly rising Kuju mountain range. The Yamanami Highway is a scenic drive route linking Oita and Kumamoto. Feel the highland breeze on this open, liberating driving course.

Course Route

9:00 Start from the Beppu area Set off by car from around Beppu or Yufuin. Wind through the mountain roads and enter the Yamanami Highway.

10:00 Enjoy the view near Kijima Kogen As the elevation rises, the view suddenly opens up. This area is beautiful for the contrast between highland greenery and mountain ridges.

11:00 Marsh walk at Chojabaru Arrive at Chojabaru, at the foot of the Kuju range. Boardwalks cross the Tadewara marsh, making it easy to walk among the highland nature.

12:30 Lunch at a highland restaurant Have lunch at a restaurant near the visitor center while gazing at the mountains, enjoying dishes made with local ingredients.

14:00 Grand panorama at Makinoto Pass Head to Makinoto Pass, the highest point of the Yamanami Highway. From the lookout, a grand panorama of the Kuju peaks stretches out.

15:30 Homeward through Senomoto Kogen Drive through the gentle grasslands of Senomoto Kogen, savoring the afterglow as you head home.

Highlights

The greatest appeal is the majestic scenery woven by grasslands and the Kuju mountains. The boardwalk walk across Tadewara marsh at Chojabaru and the ridge panorama from Makinoto Pass are must-sees.

Access and Tips

This course is basically a driving trip. Mountain roads have many curves, so drive with plenty of margin. The elevation is high and the weather changes easily, so carrying an extra layer is reassuring.

A Quick Tip

Mornings and evenings can be chilly even in summer. The scenery shines on clear days, so check the forecast before setting out.