Types of Beppu Bus Pass for Winter Tourists Guide

For the most up-to-date details, check Lonely Planet Beppu Guide before you go.

For the most up-to-date details, check Beppu City Official Website before you go.

The Mini Pass covers the city center while the Wide Pass includes the scenic Yufuin mountain area too. Most winter tourists find the Mini Pass sufficient for exploring the famous hot spring districts and local shops. Prices for the adult one-day Mini Pass typically start around 900 yen for the 2026 winter season.

A two-day pass is also available for those who want to explore the city at a slower pace. This option provides even better value if you plan to visit multiple districts over forty-eight hours in Beppu. You should consider your itinerary carefully before deciding which pass length fits your winter holiday schedule best.

• Mini Pass: Best for city center and Hells.
• Wide Pass: Includes Yufuin and African Safari.
• Two-Day Pass: Maximum value for longer stays.

Where to Buy Your Winter Bus Pass

You can find the main ticket office at the Beppu Station Information Center near the east exit. The staff provides helpful maps that show every bus stop and major attraction throughout the entire city area. Buying your ticket here ensures you have the correct pass for your specific winter sightseeing route today.

Digital passes are also available through mobile apps for tech-savvy travelers visiting Beppu in early 2026. These electronic tickets allow you to skip the lines at the station and start your journey immediately upon arrival. Make sure your smartphone is fully charged before you head out to catch your first bus of the day.

Some local hotels also sell these passes directly to their guests at the front desk for extra convenience. Always ask your hotel concierge if they provide this service when you check in for your winter stay. This can save you a trip back to the station if you arrive late in the evening hours.

Using the Pass for Top Winter Attractions

The bus pass is essential for visiting the Beppu Jigoku hot springs during the cold months. These seven "hells" are spread across the city and require multiple bus rides to see them all comfortably. Using a pass allows you to jump on any bus without worrying about carrying small coins for fares.

You can also use your Wide Pass to reach the Beppu Ropeway for incredible snowy views. The bus ride up the mountain offers beautiful scenery that looks particularly magical during the peak of winter. Many tourists enjoy the contrast between the warm bus and the chilly mountain air at the summit station.

The Beppu Station to Kannawa bus route is the most popular path for visitors seeking traditional bathhouses. This route runs frequently throughout the day and takes you directly into the heart of the historic steam district. You will see clouds of volcanic steam rising from the ground as you step off the bus there.

1. Board the bus from the designated station platforms.
2. Show your pass to the driver when exiting.
3. Enjoy unlimited rides to all major geothermal sites.

Winter Bus Travel Tips for 2026 Visitors

Winter weather in Beppu is usually mild but you should prepare for occasional snow in the mountain areas. Buses are equipped to handle winter conditions but schedules might change slightly during heavy snow or ice events. Check the official transit website for real-time updates before you leave your warm hotel room each morning.

Beppu buses require passengers to enter through the middle door and exit through the front door near the driver. You must show your physical pass or digital screen clearly to the driver as you leave the vehicle. Following this simple etiquette helps keep the boarding process smooth for everyone during the busy Beppu winter events.

Large luggage can be difficult to manage on smaller local buses during the peak tourist hours in the afternoon. Try to leave your heavy bags at the station lockers or your hotel before you start your sightseeing. This makes the journey more comfortable for you and the other passengers traveling through the city center today.