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Amusement parks #11 in Beppu

Beppu Cable Rakutenchi

4.1 · 1,850 reviews
Nostalgic and retro
Beppu Cable Rakutenchi, 18丁目 流川通り Beppu, Oita 874-0820, Japan
Interesting facts
1

The park is accessed by a funicular railway that has been in continuous service since the park's inception in 1929.

2

The cable car ascent offers a 30-degree grade climb, one of the steepest in Japan.

3

The park was designed to incorporate natural topography, resulting in a tiered layout rather than a flat amusement park floor.

4

It features a 'hanging' bridge that provides a view directly down into the forest canopy and city skyline.

5

The park houses a small-scale zoo focused on domestic animals, which is a rare feature for a coastal Japanese amusement facility.

6

Beppu Rakutenchi was a pioneer in using cable-driven transport for public recreation in the Kyushu region.

Overview

Beppu Cable Rakutenchi is a historic hillside amusement park accessible via a unique double-track cable car that climbs a steep incline from the city center. Originally opened in 1929, the park retains a nostalgic, vintage aesthetic while offering modern amusement rides. The site features a petting zoo area where visitors can interact with animals like capybaras and ponies. The grounds include a seasonal pool facility known as the Aquabeppu water park. Panoramic views of Beppu City and Beppu Bay are visible from the elevated position of the park. Visitors can traverse the park via a unique suspension bridge that provides an aerial vantage point. The park grounds are integrated into the hillside terrain, requiring walking along sloped paths. It serves as a local landmark that blends traditional leisure activities with scenic outlooks.

Photo spot

The suspension bridge area, which captures both the vintage cable car tracks and the expansive view of Beppu Bay.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the park is built on a steep hillside with many inclines.

Check the cable car maintenance schedule in advance, as the park is inaccessible if the funicular is undergoing inspection.

Bring a hat and sunscreen during summer months, as much of the park is exposed to direct sunlight.

What to avoid

Attempting to walk up the steep road to the entrance instead of using the cable car, which is both exhausting and bypasses the main attraction experience.

Good to know

Closed on Tuesdays; subject to maintenance closures in late winter.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Spring or Autumn, to enjoy the outdoor attractions without the extreme heat of the humid Beppu summer.
Address
Beppu Cable Rakutenchi, 18丁目 流川通り Beppu, Oita 874-0820, Japan
33.275, 131.486
Get directions
Details
TransportationDouble-track funicular railway
Key AttractionsPetting zoo and seasonal water park

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Spring or Autumn, to enjoy the outdoor attractions without the extreme heat of the humid Beppu summer..

The suspension bridge area, which captures both the vintage cable car tracks and the expansive view of Beppu Bay.

Close by you'll find Beppu Park, Global Tower, Beppu Tower.