DESCRIPTION

Flights from the TO to the LZ are very straightforward, as is thermaling over the mountain top. But the true potential of the area involves moving around, crossing valleys and looking for lift above the surrounding mountains. Due to the complex, dissected, high-relief landscape, and the combination of sea wind and thermals that are used to fly here, success requires an intellectual approach. Sea wind, valley wind, and prevailing westerlies at higher altitudes mix here, and the wind rarely blows from the same direction or with the same strength as you move around. Excellent training for cross country in the big hills of faraway lands!

ACTIVITIES

- paragliding
- soaring
- thermals
- xc

weather

There are very few hazards here that are not obvious to most pilots. Valley wind, rotors, venturis, etc. exist as you would expect for mountainous terrain. Perhaps the greatest hazard is that it is difficult to visualize the wind patterns; if you venture out from the vicinity of the TO, a large area of sink may bring you down into a tight spot with few landing options before you know it.

access

In a back corner of Kyushu, it takes some time and effort to get here from the main population centers. The nearest sizeable town is Nobeoka, about 45 minutes' drive to the east on the Pacific coast. From Fukuoka (Kyushu's main city) it takes 4-5 hours to get here by car.

regulation

A club headed by Nakajima-san, a very friendly local instructor, flies here regularly every weekend with good weather. The main regulation is just common sense here.