Beppu Ropeway (別府ロープウェイ) is one of Beppu’s most iconic attractions, transporting visitors from Beppu-Kogen Station (500 m) to the dramatic highlands atop Mount Tsurumi (1,300 m). Its gondolas—among the largest in Kyushu—carry up to 101 passengers and complete the scenic ascent in just 10 minutes, making it accessible for travelers of all ages.

At the summit, visitors are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views: Beppu’s sprawling hot-spring cityscape, the sweeping curve of Beppu Bay, the distinctive shape of Mount Yufu, and the distant Kuju Mountain Range. This dramatic scenery was selected as one of CNN’s “31 Most Beautiful Sceneries in Japan.” On crystal-clear days, you can even see as far as Shikoku, creating the dreamy sensation of floating above a “sea of clouds.”

Mount Tsurumi has long been regarded as a sacred mountain. Travelers can visit Tsurumi Sanjo Gongen Shrine and walk the Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage route around the summit. Light hikers can reach the true peak at 1,375 meters in about 15 minutes, while experienced hikers may continue onto trails leading to nearby mountains.

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring: Cherry blossoms and vibrant Miyama-kirishima rhododendrons
• Summer: Cool mountain breezes and lush greenery
• Autumn: Brilliant fall foliage from mid-October to late November
• Winter: A rare and magical landscape covered in shimmering hoarfrost

Attractions at the Base

• Tsurumidake Nature Park “Shiki no Sato”: Loved for cherry blossoms and autumn colors
• Kyushu Shochu-Kan: A specialty shop featuring over 500 types of shochu from across Kyushu

By Car

• About 20 minutes from central Beppu.

• Large parking area available at Beppu-Kogen Station.

By Bus

• Take a Kamenoi Bus bound for APU or Beppu Ropeway from JR Beppu Station.

• Alight at Beppu Ropeway-mae (approx. 20–30 minutes).

By Train + Taxi

• Taxis from JR Beppu Station or JR Yufuin Station offer the most direct and convenient access.

• Visit early during autumn foliage season and national holidays to avoid queues.

• Bring warm clothing—temperatures at the summit can be significantly lower.

• Check weather conditions; operations may stop during strong winds or heavy snow.

• For the best photos, visit during sunrise or the golden hour before sunset.

• Winter hikers should use caution—paths near the summit may be icy.

Admission Fee:

• Round-trip:
  • Adults (Junior High & older): 1,800 yen
  • Children (Ages 4–Elementary): 900 yen
  • Seniors (70+): 1,700 yen
• One-way:
  • Adults: 1,200 yen
  • Children: 600 yen
  • Seniors: 1,200 yen
  • Disabled visitors receive half-price round-trip tickets.

Opening Time:

• Summer Season (March 15 – November 14):

  • First departure 9:00 AM

  • Last ascent 5:00 PM

  • Last descent 5:30 PM

• Winter Season (November 15 – March 14):

  • First departure 9:00 AM

  • Last ascent 4:30 PM

  • Last descent 5:00 PM

• Operates year-round with departures every 20–30 minutes; may close temporarily during severe weather or maintenance.