Beppu to Yufuin Bus Guide 2026: Route 36 & Luggage

After soaking up the sights and sounds of Beppu, the next step on many Kyushu itineraries is the charming onsen town of Yufuin. But figuring out the best way to get there can be a bit of a puzzle!

On a recent family trip to Fukuoka, I found myself researching the most convenient way to travel from Beppu Station to Yufuin. The popular Route 36 bus quickly emerged as the top choice, and that's exactly what we opted for.

While I considered taking the train, the schedules were often tricky to align, and it required an inconvenient transfer at Oita Station. For me, a direct bus ride was the most straightforward and hassle-free option.

Finding the Route 36 Bus Stop at Beppu Station

To catch the bus to Yufuin from Beppu Station, you'll need to head to the West Exit. Once you step outside, you'll immediately spot Platform 1 – this is where the Route 36 bus, bound for Yufuin, departs.

Finding the stop itself isn't too challenging, but be prepared for the queue! During peak tourist hours, the line can get quite long. I highly recommend arriving at least 20 minutes before your desired departure time to ensure you get a spot, especially if you're traveling with others.

Traveling with Luggage: A Key Consideration

From my own experience, this is perhaps the most crucial point to consider. The Route 36 bus departing from Beppu Station is a standard city bus, not a highway coach. This means there's no dedicated undercarriage storage for large suitcases.

Navigating the narrow aisle with a big suitcase and finding a seat was quite a struggle. If the bus is crowded, you might even find yourself standing, trying to keep a firm grip on your luggage. We were lucky enough to snag seats, but even then, holding onto our bags for the entire journey was tiresome. If you're traveling with a lot of luggage or particularly heavy bags, definitely factor this into your travel plans.

Travel Time and Fare

• Duration: Approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour

• Fare: 1,100 JPY (approximately ~$7) per adult, as of 2026

We paid our fare in cash, which involved taking a numbered ticket upon boarding and then calculating the correct amount to hand to the driver when exiting. It can be a bit of a process if you're not used to it.

However, if you're using a SUNQ Pass, it's much simpler. Just show your pass to the driver when you alight, and you're good to go!

[SUNQ Pass] Unlimited Bus Ticket for Kyushu Region (Fukuoka & Nearby Areas)

For our large family trip, we tried to minimize transfers, so we didn't use the SUNQ Pass on this particular journey. This meant calculating bus fares every time we rode, which was a minor inconvenience. My brother-in-law, who was traveling with us, even commented that the SUNQ Pass would have been far more convenient for ease of travel.

If your itinerary involves frequent bus travel or you're managing a larger group, the SUNQ Pass is definitely a fantastic option for a smoother, more stress-free experience.

Stunning Views of Mount Yufu

Even with the slight inconvenience of luggage, one major reason to take the bus from Beppu Station to Yufuin is the incredible scenery along the way.

As the bus winds its way through the mountain roads, the majestic Mount Yufu comes into full view. From my perspective, sitting on the right side of the bus offered a slightly more expansive and enjoyable view. Even on a cloudy day, the landscape had its own unique charm, making the journey anything but boring.

When traveling between Beppu Station and Yufuin, the Route 36 bus is undeniably a budget-friendly choice.

However, remember that it's a city bus, so be prepared for the lack of dedicated luggage storage. Knowing this beforehand will help you avoid any surprises.

Since seating can be limited, I recommend arriving at the bus stop a little early. The bus might be the most economical option for some, but if you have a lot of luggage, investing a bit more in a train or even a taxi might be a better fit for your situation. Ultimately, choose the option that best suits your travel style and needs!