Rediscover the Charm of the Region – Cycling Through Bungo-Ōno with the Yano Couple
Introduction
Bungo-Ōno City, located in central Oita Prefecture, is a tranquil area where the Yano couple, owners of “Yano Motors,” host a monthly cycling tour.
Through their tours, you can explore the mountains, rivers, and the deeply rooted local lifestyle of Bungo-Ōno by bike. Participants frequently praise the experience, noting how cycling allows them to uncover hidden treasures that go unnoticed when traveling by car.
Yano Motors provides tours featuring e-bikes, ensuring even beginners can enjoy the experience with peace of mind. Their tours stand out for their warm and inviting guides and their familial atmosphere. Guests can look forward to refreshing their hearts and minds by cycling through seasonal routes and engaging with the local community.
This time, we spoke to Mr. Yano about how he became enamored with cycling and his thoughts as a guide showcasing the wonders of Bungo-Ōno.
What Got You into Cycling, and What Made You Fall in Love with It?
At first, I started cycling to stay healthy and for fun. Initially, even riding 10 km was a struggle, but as I gradually extended my distances, the sense of accomplishment from saying, “I made it this far today!” became my joy. The feeling of pedaling with my own power to reach new places made me fall in love with cycling.
Cycling also made me notice parts of my hometown’s scenery that I used to pass by unnoticed in a car. Riding through, I began to hear the sounds of nature—the babbling of rivers and the chirping of birds—and enjoy the Geopark landscapes up close. Landmarks like Todoro Bridge and Deai Bridge, as well as Harajiri Falls, became regular destinations once I started cycling. Even after living in this area for nearly 60 years, cycling has rekindled a childlike excitement to rediscover the beauty of my hometown.
What Are the Benefits of Cycling?
Cycling refreshes both the body and mind. Personally, I’ve noticed significant health benefits, including weight loss. Being active instead of sedentary brings noticeable physical changes, and once you realize that, it’s hard not to spend your weekends cycling. It’s turned into a positive habit for me. Cycling helps make weekends enjoyable, leaving me refreshed and ready for Monday.
From a sightseeing perspective, cycling also has unique charms. It allows you to notice landscapes that you might pass by in a car, as well as fully engage your senses—sight, sound, smell, and more.
Cycling has also led me to discover hidden gems, such as small, off-the-beaten-path shops. These spots often tempt me to stop and explore. I’m grateful for all the new encounters and connections cycling has brought into my life.
What Do You Keep in Mind as a Guide, and What Do You Hope to Offer Guests?
As a guide, I focus on showcasing the unique charm of the area that only cycling can provide, while ensuring everyone has a safe and enjoyable ride. Since the routes we take are also part of the local community’s daily life, I emphasize the importance of respecting the space, greeting people we encounter, and maintaining a considerate attitude.
Recently, we’ve incorporated experiences such as interacting with local farmers, trying homemade goya juice (made from pesticide-free bitter gourds), and participating in kabosu (Japanese lime) picking. These activities provide guests with a distinct taste of Bungo-Ōno’s lifestyle. We aim to create tours that make visitors think, “I’m glad I came here.” By including hands-on farming experiences, we help guests discover aspects of everyday life that are hard to find in typical tourist attractions.
How Do You Ensure Guests Can Enjoy the Tours Comfortably?
We offer a trial course of about 10 km for first-time participants. This allows guests to feel confident, knowing that cycling is something they can handle. Building that confidence makes it easier for them to join future tours.
We also make use of electric-assist bicycles and e-bikes, so participants of all ages and fitness levels can join in. To make things even more convenient, we arrange for rental e-bikes to be delivered to the meeting point.
Additionally, we customize our tours based on participants’ age and fitness levels. For those who prefer a slower pace, we offer mini tours that start with cycling basics to address any initial concerns. This ensures everyone feels comfortable and can fully enjoy the experience.
From Your Perspective, What Makes Cycling in Oita So Appealing?
Bungo-Ōno City is rich in greenery and has a fascinating geological history. About 90,000 years ago, the Aso Volcano released a massive pyroclastic flow that covered most of Bungo-Ōno. Over time, the cooled and solidified flow shaped stunning landscapes, including waterfalls and valleys.
Cycling here lets you enjoy these magnificent sights. There are also lesser-known, deep spots and nostalgic rural scenes that you can encounter along the way.
Another highlight is the warmth of the local people. Through farming experiences and seasonal interactions, our tours allow participants to immerse themselves in the region’s lifestyle and connect with its residents. It’s like coming home to a warm and welcoming place.
Conclusion
The cycling tours led by the Yano couple not only highlight the local charm of Bungo-Ōno but also create a welcoming and heartwarming atmosphere.
With thoughtful arrangements for beginners, the tours offer unforgettable experiences that blend scenic beauty, community interaction, and the unique perspective that only cycling can provide.
Why not spend your next weekend discovering a new side of Bungo-Ōno on a bike with the Yano couple?