Getting to Mount Tsurumi from Beppu: 2026 Guide
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Complete Guide for Getting to Mount Tsurumi from Beppu
Getting to Mount Tsurumi from Beppu is a simple and rewarding journey. The mountain provides some of the best views in the Oita Prefecture. You can reach the base in about twenty minutes from the city center. This guide covers all transport methods for your 2026 winter adventure.
Visiting the summit is a highlight for many travelers in Japan. You will find several comfortable ways to travel to the ropeway station. Our guide ensures you have all the current schedules and price details. Explore this Beppu winter travel guide 2026 to plan your full stay.
The mountain sits at an elevation of 1,375 meters above the sea. It offers a unique vantage point over the famous steaming hot springs. Preparation is key to enjoying the cold mountain air during winter. Let's look at the best transport options for your upcoming trip.
Best Methods for Getting to Mount Tsurumi from Beppu
To plan your trip, review Beppu travel info.
The most popular way to reach the mountain is by local bus. Kamei Bus offers frequent services starting from Beppu Station. You should head to the West Exit of the main train station. Look for bus numbers 36 or 37 at the loading bay.The bus ride takes approximately twenty minutes in normal traffic conditions. You will travel through scenic winding roads toward the highlands. The fare is roughly 290 yen for a one-way trip in 2026. You can pay using common IC cards like Suica or Pasmo.
Taxis are another convenient option for small groups or families. A taxi ride from the station costs about 3,500 yen each way. This is a faster choice if you have a tight schedule. Drivers are very familiar with the Kintetsu Beppu Ropeway entrance location.
Rental cars provide the most flexibility for exploring the Beppu area. There is a large parking lot available at the ropeway base. Parking is usually free for visitors using the ropeway facilities. Be careful of icy road conditions during the peak winter months.
Kintetsu Beppu Ropeway Ticket Prices and Hours
The Kintetsu Beppu Ropeway is the main link to the summit. It is one of the largest ropeway systems in western Japan. The lower station sits right next to the bus stop. You can buy tickets at the window or automated machines.
A round-trip ticket for adults costs approximately 1,600 yen in 2026. Children and seniors may qualify for discounted rates at the counter. The ropeway operates every twenty minutes throughout the operating day. Check the mount tsurumi winter ropeway tips for the best boarding times.
Operating hours typically run from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM daily. These hours may change based on weather or seasonal events. Visibility is often better during the crisp morning hours in winter. Try to arrive early to beat the afternoon tourist crowds.
The gondola ride takes about ten minutes to reach the top. You will ascend nearly 800 meters during this short aerial journey. The cabins provide 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and sea. Keep your camera ready for the dramatic rise up the slope.
Navigating the Mount Tsurumi Summit Area
The summit area features several walking paths and small shrines. You will find a large observation deck near the upper station. This deck offers a panoramic view of Beppu Bay and Oita City. On clear days, you can even see the Shikoku region.
The temperature at the summit is much lower than at sea level. Expect a difference of about ten degrees Celsius compared to the city. Icy winds can make the summit feel even colder during winter. Wear multiple layers to stay warm while exploring the different viewpoints.
Hiking trails connect the various peaks and religious sites on top. You can visit several small shrines dedicated to local mountain deities. The paths are generally well-marked but can be slippery in the snow. Follow the mount tsurumi summit hiking winter safety rules for a secure walk.
There are small heating rooms and restrooms at the upper station. These provide a warm refuge if the weather turns suddenly cold. You can also find vending machines with hot drinks near the exit. Spend about one to two hours exploring before heading back down.
Winter Weather and Rime Ice Sightseeing
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Winter is a magical time to visit Mount Tsurumi in Beppu. The mountain is famous for a phenomenon called rime ice. This happens when water droplets freeze instantly on trees and bushes. It creates a stunning white landscape that looks like a forest of coral.
Rime ice is most common between January and February each year. You should check the ropeway's official website for current ice conditions. Clear blue skies provide the best contrast for your winter photography. Many local enthusiasts visit specifically to photograph these frozen trees.
Snowfall is frequent at the summit even when Beppu city remains dry. The contrast between the steaming city and snowy peak is incredible. You might see steam rising from the Beppu Hells far below. This visual contrast is unique to the Oita region in winter.
Be prepared for occasional closures due to high wind speeds. Safety is the top priority for the ropeway operations team. If the winds are too strong, the service will stop temporarily. Always have a backup plan for your day if the mountain is closed.
What to Pack for Your Mountain Adventure
Proper clothing is essential for getting to Mount Tsurumi from Beppu in winter. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep your skin dry. Add an insulated mid-layer like a fleece or down jacket. A waterproof outer shell will protect you from wind and snow.
Footwear is another critical part of your winter mountain gear. Wear sturdy boots with good grip for the snowy summit paths. Avoid wearing smooth-soled shoes that might slip on the frozen ground. Crampons or ice spikes are helpful if you plan on hiking further.
Do not forget to bring a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf. Protecting your extremities is vital for staying comfortable in the cold air. A pair of sunglasses will help with the glare from white snow. Small heat packs, known as kairo, are also highly recommended.
Carry a small backpack with water and some light snacks. There are no large restaurants at the very top of the mountain. You should stay hydrated even when the weather feels very cold. A thermos with hot tea or coffee is a wonderful treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get to Mount Tsurumi from Beppu?
The journey takes about twenty minutes by bus from Beppu Station. Taxis can make the trip in approximately fifteen minutes. The ropeway ride from the base to the summit takes ten minutes. Plan for a total of two to three hours for the whole visit.
What is the best way to travel to the ropeway station?
The local Kamei bus is the most cost-effective and reliable method. Use bus numbers 36 or 37 from the station's West Exit. This service runs frequently and drops you at the ropeway entrance. It is a very convenient way for getting to Mount Tsurumi from Beppu.
Can I see snow on Mount Tsurumi in the winter?
Yes, snow is common on the summit from December through March. You will often see beautiful rime ice on the mountain trees. The summit environment is much colder than the city center below. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you start your trip.
Getting to Mount Tsurumi from Beppu is a highlight of any winter trip to Kyushu. You can enjoy stunning views of the bay and the famous rime ice. Use the local bus for an easy and affordable transit experience in 2026. Plan your mountain visit today for an unforgettable Japanese winter memory.
Key Takeaways
- Take Kamei bus 36 or 37 from Beppu Station West Exit.
- Budget 1,600 yen for the round-trip ropeway ticket.
- Dress in multiple warm layers for the freezing summit temperatures.
Related reads: polarcityguide.com, seeing rime ice on mount tsurumi.