How to Enjoy Yufuin

Yufuin is a charming town located in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, offering not only relaxing onsen but also breathtaking natural scenery such as Mt. Yufu and Lake Kinrin. Simply strolling through the town is an uplifting experience. Dotted with cafés and shops, Yufuin offers delightful new surprises and discoveries for visitors. This article introduces ways to enjoy Yufuin – be sure to visit and create unforgettable memories on your journey.  

* Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.

The Allure of Yufuin

One of Yufuin's greatest attractions is its picturesque natural scenery. With the stunning Mt. Yufu serving as a backdrop, visitors can enjoy the changing beauty of the seasons and tranquil rural landscapes. Yufuin also has locations that are famous for their cherry blossoms in spring, as well as others that are famous for breathtaking views of colorful foliage in autumn. The town is dotted with traditional onsen ryokan inns and stylish cafés, where visitors can savor dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Particularly recommended are dishes featuring Bungo beef and locally grown vegetables. A visit to Yufuin is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

Top 5 Spots and Activities to Enjoy

Take a Dip in an Onsen

When talking about Yufuin, you can't leave out the onsen. Known throughout Japan, these onsen provide soothing relaxation for all visitors. The mild, non-irritating waters make them ideal even for those new to onsen bathing. Yufuin boasts numerous onsen ryokan inns, many of which offer day-use options, allowing visitors to enjoy the experience with ease. Some facilities feature open-air baths with stunning views of Mt. Yufu, letting you sooth both your body and mind. On crisp winter mornings, you may even witness the ethereal sight of the mountain shrouded in mist. Slowly immersing yourself in these serene natural surroundings is sure to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Recommended Onsen Ryokan Inns

Yufuin is home to numerous onsen ryokan, but here are two standout recommendations:

Yama no Hotel Musoen
Situated on a hillside slightly removed from the center of Yufuin, this onsen ryokan inn offers breathtaking views from its spacious open-air baths. Guests can relax in the soothing waters while enjoying the stunning scenery of Mt. Yufu and the Yufuin Basin’s lush natural beauty.
Official website
Yufuin Sansuikan
This popular ryokan inn stands out with its all-inclusive experience. Guests can enjoy unlimited drinks during their stay and savor a buffet-style dinner featuring local Oita delicacies and fresh seafood. In addition to open-air baths, the sauna also offers incredible views of the surrounding nature.
Official website (Japanese)

Take a Ride on a Horse-Drawn Carriage or Rickshaw

To fully enjoy the charm of Yufuin, consider unique transportation options like horse-drawn sightseeing carriages, rickshaws, or rental bicycles. These experiences allow you to leisurely take in the stunning natural scenery that can't be seen in the town's center, enriching your journey and creating unforgettable memories.

Horse-Drawn Carriages
A Yufuin specialty for over 50 years, these horse-drawn carriage tours take you on a charming journey to historic temples and shrines. The approximately 60-minute course includes a guided tour in Japanese, allowing you to immerse yourself in Yufuin's charms while listening to the soothing sound of horse hooves.
Official tourist website (Japanese)
Rickshaws
Rickshaws were once a traditional means of transport in Japan. You can choose from short, 10-minute tours to extended 180-minute journeys, depending on your schedule. English-speaking guides are available, providing heartfelt hospitality to make your trip unforgettable.
Official website
Rental Bicycles
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, rental bicycles are an excellent option. Bikes are available at the tourist information center next to JR Yufuin Station. Embark on a leisurely journey through the serene rural landscapes and discover your own favorite spots along the way.
Official tourist website

Bicycle Tour Guide: Tabi Class

Why not join a bicycle tour and explore Yufuin's highlights? With Tabi Class bicycle tour company, a professional guide accompanies you to introduce the region’s history and unique features. In addition to their standard courses, they can also accommodate custom route requests. Beyond cycling, Tabi Class also offers guided walking tours, where you can explore Yufuin’s lesser-known backstreets, idyllic countryside, and tranquil waterfronts. Enjoy the refreshing breeze as you uncover Yufuin's beauty and unexpected encounters.

Take a Stroll Around Lake Kinrin

Located about a 30-minute walk from Yufuin Station, Lake Kinrin features a well-maintained walking path, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. The lake's charm lies in its stunning scenery, including a mystical view of a torii gate rising from the water. From blooming flowers and fresh greenery in spring and early summer to vibrant autumn leaves and morning mists in winter, the lake offers picturesque beauty in every season. Spend a tranquil moment in this serene environment.

Experience the Culture

Engage in traditional Japanese crafts and create an original, one-of-a-kind piece. In Yufuin, you can try hands-on activities like pottery making or crafting chopsticks. With the careful guidance and advice that is provided, even beginners can participate with confidence. These experiences offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Yufuin’s culture and take home a special memento of your journey. A handmade item created by your own hands becomes a cherished keepsake. Enjoy this memorable and enriching experience!

Lunch in Yufuin

No visit to Yufuin is complete without savoring its local delicacies. Many restaurants serve Oita specialties like Bungo beef and toriten (tempura-style fried chicken), offering a delightful culinary experience.

Feel the Art

The Yufuin area offers art museums showcasing works by renowned Japanese artists, along with spaces where visitors can engage with art. Let us introduce some recommended spots for you to explore. Enjoy a special moment immersed in art while taking in the beauty of Yufuin's natural surroundings.

COMICO ART MUSEUM YUFUIN
Comico Art Museum Yufuin is a modern and sophisticated art museum designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. It features works by famous artists such as Takashi Murakami and Yayoi Kusama. With photo-worthy spots and on-site accommodation facilities, this is the perfect destination for immersing yourself in art.
Official website
Yufuin Artegio
Located slightly away from the center of Yufuin, this art museum is dedicated to displaying various types of music-inspired art. The sophisticated space also features a café and a chocolate shop, providing a relaxing environment to unwind.
Official website (Japanese)
Yufuin Station (Station Building, Art Hall)
JR Yufuin Station houses an art gallery that doubles as a waiting area. The gallery showcases a variety of exhibitions, including photography and crafts, which change monthly. Take the opportunity to enjoy art while waiting for your train.
Official tourist website (Japanese)

YUFUiNFO

Be sure to visit the Yufu City Tourist Information Center located next to JR Yufuin Station. This center serves as an excellent base for your travels. In addition to providing valuable sightseeing information, you can also store your luggage here. The glass-walled interior and observation deck offer stunning views of Mt. Yufu, making it a perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Climb Mt. Yufu

Mt. Yufu, the symbol of Yufuin, has long been revered as a sacred mountain. It features a variety of well-maintained trails to the summit that cater to everyone from beginners to experienced climbers. Throughout the year, the mountain offers stunning scenery that changes with the season, including fresh greenery, vibrant autumn leaves, and frost-covered trees. It is also one of the few mountains where you can witness the Brocken phenomenon – a phenomenon where your shadow appears magnified on the clouds or mist ahead, encircled by a halo of colored light. Along the ascent, you’ll find observation points and rest areas, making the climb both enjoyable and manageable. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Yufuin, Beppu Bay, and the Kuju Mountain Range, an unforgettable moment that will make all your efforts worthwhile.

Ensure you have proper gear, and pay close attention to the weather and your physical condition as you embark on this rewarding challenge on Mt. Yufu.

Why Not Venture a Little Further Out to Yunohira Onsen and Tsukahara Highlands?

Recommended Spots Near Yufuin

[Yunohira Onsen]

Located about 20 minutes by car from Yufuin, Yunohira Onsen is a historic onsen town. The stone-paved slopes, crafted over 300 years ago during the samurai era, exude a serene and nostalgic charm, blending perfectly with the traditional ryokan inns that line the streets.

[Tsukahara Highlands]

Around 30 minutes by car from Yufuin, Tsukahara Highlands sits on the northern slopes of Mt. Yufu at an elevation of approximately 600 meters. The area offers breathtaking scenery year-round, with verdant greens, golden silvergrass, and pristine snow. Accommodations are also available, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil escape in the heart of nature.

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