u/derfischmeister

We are flying into Fukuoka and cycling through Kyushu for 20 cycling days across 14 planned stages, with rest days planned in Nagasaki, Kagoshima and Beppu. After returning to Fukuoka we will travel further (without bicycles) for sightseeing in the Osaka area.

Would love a sanity check from people who know the island.

Map of the route is attached. We have read a lot of blogs and GPS tracks but nothing beats hearing from people who have actually ridden this stuff, so any input is welcome, big or small.

A few spots we are still going back and forth on:

1. Nagashima Island to Kagoshima. Coastal road or cut inland?
2. Beppu to Fukuoka. Going straight west via Hita looks like a brutal climbing day. Tempted to go the long way around via Usa instead and trade distance for less suffering. Anyone ridden both?
3. Yakushima. We have 2 spare days in the schedule. Worth squeezing in?

Starting September 20th. Any tips, warnings, or "wish someone had told me" moments from your own trips are much appreciated.

Detailed GPX: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/56731157