The Fukuoka to Beppu route is Kyushu's most popular campervan road trip, and for good reason. In just 3 days, you will experience world-class hot springs, volcanic landscapes, charming mountain towns, and some of Japan's most scenic driving roads.
Day 1: Fukuoka to Yufuin (1.5 hours)
Pick up your campervan at VanTripJapan Hakozaki base (10 min from Fukuoka Airport). Head east on the expressway toward Yufuin, a small onsen town that sits in a mountain basin.
- Morning: Pick up van, grab supplies at a konbini
- Afternoon: Arrive in Yufuin, stroll Yunotsubo Street, visit Kinrin Lake
- Evening: Soak in a public onsen (Shitan-yu is free and atmospheric)
- Sleep: Michi-no-Eki Yufuin or nearby campground
Day 2: Beppu Onsen Day (30 min from Yufuin)
Drive the short scenic route from Yufuin to Beppu, the hot spring capital of Japan, with 2,800+ onsen sources.
- Morning: Beppu Jigoku (Hell) Tour, 7 colorful geothermal pools
- Afternoon: Hyotan Onsen (tattoo-friendly, one of Japan best public baths)
- Evening: Beppu sand bath at Takegawara Onsen or Shoningahama beach
- Sleep: Beppu Spa Beach parking area or Michi-no-Eki nearby
Day 3: Yamanami Highway to Mount Aso (2 hours)
The Yamanami Highway is one of Japan most beautiful mountain roads, connecting Beppu/Yufuin to Mount Aso.
- Morning: Drive the legendary Yamanami Highway through rolling green hills
- Afternoon: Visit Mount Aso crater (if alert level permits), Kusasenri grasslands
- Evening: Return to Fukuoka via expressway (2 hours) or extend your trip (van return is 9:00-17:00; a later return only by prior arrangement)
What You Need
- Campervan: Rent from VanTripJapan, from 22,000 yen/day with insurance (CDW) and camping gear included
- ETC Card: Free from VanTripJapan on advance request (saves money on expressway tolls, which are paid separately)
- License: International Driving Permit (1949 Geneva Convention), or a JAF translation for licenses from Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium, Monaco and Taiwan
- Towel: Bring your own for onsen, or rent for 200-300 yen at each bath
Ready to drive Fukuoka to Beppu?
Chat on WhatsAppFrequently asked questions
How long does it take to drive from Fukuoka to Beppu?
About 2.5 hours via the Oita Expressway. With stops at Yufuin and scenic viewpoints, we recommend spreading it over 2-3 days for the best experience.
Can I visit Beppu and Yufuin in a campervan?
Absolutely! Both towns have excellent parking options. Beppu has multiple RV-friendly parking areas near the onsen district, and Yufuin has spacious public parking lots. Several Michi-no-Eki along the route tolerate a night's rest in your vehicle, as long as you do not camp outside the van.
What is the best time to drive from Fukuoka to Beppu?
Spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November) offer the best weather and scenery. The Yamanami Highway between Yufuin and Aso is spectacular in autumn with fall colors.