Route Overview
The Ibusuki Skyline is a scenic toll road in Kagoshima Prefecture, connecting Kagoshima City to Ibusuki City.
The total length is about 38.9 km, and the road is officially a controlled-access highway managed by the Kagoshima Prefectural Road Corporation.
It reaches an altitude of around 500 meters, offering riders panoramic views of Sakurajima Volcano, Kinko Bay, and Mt. Kaimon—some of the iconic landscapes of southern Kyushu.
Recommended Riding Section
The most enjoyable section is between Taniyama IC and Ei IC.
This stretch has a lot of elevation change and curves, making it fun and dynamic for sport touring.
The Suzuyama Parking Area is a great stop with a stunning view of Sakurajima on clear days.
Road Conditions & Safety
- Fully paved, two-lane expressway standard
- Open to motorcycles over 125cc
- Toll road with some ETC-compatible gates
- Watch out for fog and strong crosswinds, especially in higher sections
- Speed checks and patrols are frequent
Points of Interest
- Suzuyama Parking Area: Rest spot with vending machines, restrooms, and a great view
- Mt. Kaimon: Often called the “Mt. Fuji of Kyushu”
- Ibusuki Onsen: Famous for its sand baths by the sea
- Chiran Peace Museum: A historical museum, popular with touring riders
Local Food
- Kagoshima Black Pork (Kurobuta): Great in tonkatsu or shabu-shabu
- Satsuma-age (fried fish cake) and Kibinago sashimi
- In Ibusuki, try meals steamed using hot spring sand—a local specialty
Toll & Access Info
- Toll road:
- Regular cars: approx. ¥630
- Motorcycles: approx. ¥510 (full route)
- Access from Taniyama IC (Kagoshima City) to Ei IC (Minamikyushu City)
- Easily reachable from Kagoshima IC on the Kyushu Expressway
Best Season & Climate
- Spring (Mar–May) and Autumn (Oct–Nov) offer the best riding weather and clear views of Sakurajima
- Summer is warm but cooler at higher elevations
- Winter is mild overall, but beware of early morning frost in mountain sections
Sample Touring Plan (Day Trip from Kagoshima City)
Kagoshima City → Ibusuki Skyline (Taniyama IC → Ei IC) → Rest at Suzuyama PA → Ride to Mt. Kaimon → Lunch and sand bath in Ibusuki → Return to Kagoshima City
Estimated time: 6–7 hours