Northward from Saiki, the route cuts inland to navigate the forested ridges of Oita Prefecture. Smooth asphalt alternates with narrow valley roads that track shallow rivers beneath a dense canopy of maple and cedar. The midday miles open up as the track joins the coast, tracing the sweeping curve of Beppu Bay where the horizon meets the calm waters of the Seto Inland Sea. Towering coastal cliffs flank the left side of the road while cargo ships drift in the distance. The ride finishes with a gentle climb into Beppu. Plumes of geothermal steam rise continuously from the hillsides against the dark backdrop of Mount Tsurumi, signaling the end of the entire loop with the distinct scent of sulfur and the promise of hot thermal springs.
