Finding Your Bus at Beppu Station

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Lonely Planet Beppu Guide.

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

The Beppu station to Kannawa bus route winter schedule is very reliable even during the colder months. Buses typically depart every fifteen to twenty minutes throughout the morning and afternoon hours in 2026. You should check the digital displays at the stop for real-time arrival and departure information for your bus.

If you feel confused, visit the tourist information center located inside the station near the ticket gates. The friendly staff can provide you with a printed bus map and the current winter timetable for all routes. They can also confirm if any weather delays are affecting the local transportation network on that specific day.

For a broader look at getting around the city, read our guide on winter transportation in Beppu for more tips. This resource helps you plan your entire trip across the Oita Prefecture with ease and confidence. Knowing your options will make your winter vacation much more relaxing and enjoyable for everyone.

Best Bus Numbers for the Kannawa Route

Several different bus lines serve the Beppu station to Kannawa bus route winter path every single day. Bus numbers 5, 7, and 9 are the fastest and most popular choices for reaching the hot springs. These specific routes take approximately twenty-five minutes to reach the main terminal in the heart of Kannawa.

Route 41 is another excellent option that travels to Kannawa while following a slightly different scenic path. This bus is often less crowded than the main lines during peak tourist hours in the winter season. Always verify the destination shown on the electronic sign at the front of the bus before you board.

Most buses in Beppu feature English announcements and digital screens to help international travelers find their way. You will hear the name of the Kannawa stop announced clearly as the bus approaches the main terminal area. The views of the steaming hillsides during the climb are truly spectacular during the month of January.

You can find more official transit information on the Visit Oita website for the latest 2026 updates. This site offers great insights into regional travel and seasonal changes for visitors exploring the Kyushu island area. It is a helpful tool for anyone planning a detailed itinerary through the beautiful Oita Prefecture.

Fares and Payment Options in Winter 2026

A standard one-way trip to Kannawa costs about 340 yen for an adult passenger in the year 2026. Children usually pay half of the adult fare when traveling on any of the local Kamenoi bus routes. You should enter through the rear door of the bus and take a small paper ticket if paying cash.

Using a prepaid IC card is the most convenient way to handle your fares on the Beppu bus system. You can use popular cards like Suica, Pasmo, or Sugoca by tapping them on the readers near the doors. Learn more about using IC cards on Beppu buses to save time during your winter commute.

If you only have large bills, the bus has a change machine located directly next to the driver. This machine can break 1,000 yen bills into smaller coins for the fare box during your bus ride. Please try to prepare your payment before the bus reaches your final stop to keep the line moving.

Travelers planning multiple trips should consider purchasing a specialized Beppu bus pass for winter tourists at the station. These one-day or two-day passes offer unlimited rides and can save you a significant amount of money. They are especially useful if you plan to visit several different hot spring areas in one day.

Navigating Winter Weather on the Bus

Winter in Beppu can occasionally bring light snow and icy road conditions to the higher elevations near Kannawa. The Beppu station to Kannawa bus route winter remains operational during most snowy days thanks to experienced local drivers. You might experience minor delays if the snowfall becomes particularly heavy during the peak of the winter season.

Wait for your bus inside the station lobby or nearby shops to stay warm before your scheduled departure time. The outdoor bus stops can feel quite chilly when the winter winds blow down from the surrounding volcanic mountains. Wearing insulated layers and a windproof jacket will keep you comfortable while you wait for your next bus.

The interior of every Kamenoi bus is well-heated to provide a cozy environment for all passengers during the trip. You can relax and enjoy the view of the city as the bus climbs toward the steaming Kannawa district. Keep your gloves and hat handy for when you step off the bus into the crisp winter air.

Check the schedule for the Beppu winter events 2026 to see if any festivals are happening near the route. Many local celebrations take place in the streets of Kannawa during the colder months to celebrate the steam. These events are a great way to experience the unique culture of this famous Japanese hot spring town.

Arriving at the Kannawa Bus Terminal

The Kannawa bus terminal serves as the central hub for visitors exploring the famous "Hells of Beppu" attractions. Upon arrival, you will immediately notice the incredible amount of steam rising from the ground and local drainage pipes. This area is the most active geothermal zone in the entire city and offers a unique winter atmosphere.

From the terminal, you can easily walk to seven different hot spring attractions known as the Jigoku or Hells. The walking paths are well-marked with English signs but can become slippery if ice forms on the pavement. Take short steps and wear shoes with good grip to stay safe while exploring the district on foot.

You will find many traditional restaurants nearby that offer "jigoku mushi" or food steamed by the natural volcanic heat. This is a must-try experience for any traveler visiting the Kannawa area during the cold winter months of 2026. The hot steam keeps the dining areas warm and provides a healthy way to cook local vegetables and seafood.

Visit the official Beppu Jigoku Association website to check the opening hours and admission prices for each spring. Most of the Hells are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM throughout the entire winter season. Planning your route between the springs will help you see all the major sights before the sun sets.