Beppu Private Guided Tour Rakanji Temple and Yabakei Trek

This private day tour combines a scenic trek in Yabakei (Kyoshuho & Fururakan) with a cultural visit to Rakanji Temple. Walking time and route are adjusted to your group and the day’s conditions, while focusing on the best viewpoints and the most meaningful parts of the area. Please note that temple etiquette is important at Rakanji (including possible photography restrictions), and plans may change for safety in rain or after heavy weather. From mid-April to early May, the opposite bank of the Yamakuni River beside Kyoshuho is covered in blue nemophila flowers, offering a delightful view from the observation point. This experience is designed for guests who enjoy hiking and occasional mountain walks. It is beginner-friendly for active travelers, but not recommended for people who do little to no exercise. The route and pace will be adjusted to your group and the day’s conditions.

1. 1

   Kyoshuho

   2 hours

   Kyoshuho Exploration Trail is a scenic walk through one of Yabakei’s most iconic landscapes: a dramatic 1-kilometer line of towering rock pinnacles that feels like a natural stone “folding screen.” Along the ridge-route you’ll experience a unique mix of cliffside viewpoints, mysterious rock formations, and spiritual spots—making it a short, high-impact hike packed with nature, story, and atmosphere. From mid-April to early May, the opposite bank of the Yamakuni River beside Kyoshuho is covered in blue nemophila flowers, offering a delightful view from the observation point. After the Kyoshuho hike, I will take you to a nearby restaurant. There, you can enjoy Oita's local cuisine.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   1 hour

   Enjoy a buffet-style lunch at Farmar's Restaurant DOMON PATIO. You can freely eat as much as you like from a variety of dishes. The vegetables are especially delicious. If this restaurant is closed or fully booked and we can't get a reservation, we'll go to another restaurant nearby.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   1 hour

   Fururakan (Old Rakan) Exploration Trail is a unique hike across rugged rocky ridges facing Rakanji Temple, where you’ll pass strange rock formations, natural rock shelters, and historic stone Buddhist carvings placed directly into cliffs and caves. The route feels like a journey through a “living stone gallery,” blending dramatic scenery with a quiet, spiritual atmosphere you can only find in rural Yabakei.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   2 hours

   Rakanji is fascinating because it feels like stepping into a hidden “stone Buddha world” carved into a mountain. You walk through caves and rock shelters filled with several thousand stone statues—including some of Japan’s oldest 500 Rakan—while the temple buildings blend into massive cliff walls, creating a powerful mix of spirituality, history, and breathtaking scenery that changes with the seasons.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• This experience is designed for active travelers who enjoy hiking. It is beginner-friendly for people who hike sometimes, but not recommended for those who do little to no exercise.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.