SHIMABARA PENINSULA CIRCUIT CYCLING IKOMON(SHIMABARA PENINSULA CIRCUIT CYCLING ROUTE)
A Dynamic Route to Experience the Earth's Bounty
This peninsula, which is shaped like a magatama, is known for the globally-recognized geopark, “Unzen Volcanic Area Global Geopark.” Unzendake, an active volcano, rises in the center of the peninsula, and this route runs around the base of the volcano for a total length of 106 kilometers. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, this route boasts one breathtaking scene after another, from cars of the Shimabara Railway which runs along the coastline, to views of expansive potato fields. It also offers alluring scenery such as a tunnel of greenery left by the remains of the Obama Railway and a cycling/pedestrian path along the abandoned railroad of Minamishimabara City. On the way home, you can drop by and relax at famous hot spring spots like Obama Onsen, Unzen Onsen, and Shimabara Onsen.
Route map
- Developed section
- Section under development(Please go towards the National Highway side)
Spot
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Shimabara Castle
Shimabara Castle is a prominent landmark of the city and a cultural site that reflects the history of the castle town.
Within the grounds, visitors can experience traditional Takigi Noh performances and explore exhibitions related to the region’s Christian history.
The castle grounds also featur a plum garden and seasonal flowers, including cherry blossoms and lotus blooms.
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Gamadasu Dome(Unzen Volcano Disaster Memorial Hall)
Gamadasu Dome is a large-scale interactive facility that introduces the science and history of volcanic activity in the Unzen area.
The exhibits document the eruption activity of Unzen–Fugendake, which began in November 1990 and continued until the official declaration of its end in May 1996.
Through a variety of displays, the facility conveys both the power of nature and the efforts of local communities in responding to volcanic disasters.
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World Heritage Site: Hara Castle Ruins
Hara Castle Ruins mark the site of the final battle of the Shimabara–Amakusa Rebellion of 1637.
After four months of intense fighting, almost all members of the rebel forces lost their lives. Today, visitors can explore remains such as dry moats, the ruins of the main of honmaru, and turret foundations. Guided tours are also available by advance reservation.
Statues and gravestones dedicated to the rebel leader, Amakusa Shiro Tokisada, can also be found on the site.
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Kazusa Beach (Maehama Beach)
Kazusa Beach is known for its white sand and green pine trees.
Clear waters, gently sloping shores, and surrounding pine groves ,create a rich natural environment.
Swings set along the beach and beautiful sunset views make it a popular spot for photography.
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Hot Foot 105
Hotto Futto 105 is a 105-meter-long foot bath inspired by the source temperature of Obama Onsen and is recognized as the longest foot bath in Japan.
It attracts approximately 150,000 visitors each year.
At sunset, visitors can enjoy soaking their feet while watching the sun set over Tachibana Bay.
Adjacent steam facilities allow anyone to steam vegetables and seafood using natural hot spring steam.
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Green Tunnel (Kishamichi Railway Path)
Green Tunnel, also known locally as “Kishamichi,” follows the route of a former railway that once ran along the coast between the Chijiwa area and Obama Onsen.
Today, it serves as Prefectural Route 201.
Lush trees lining both sides of the road create a tunnel-like canopy, making it a popular and picturesque coastal drive.
As the road is narrow in places, visitors are advised to proceed with care.