TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yufuin Onsen (Yufu City, Oita Prefecture) is a hot spring resort located at the foot of Mount Yufu, and is known for its abundant nature and relaxing atmosphere. It developed as a tourist destination from the Meiji to Taisho periods, and in recent years has become known nationwide as a "scenic resort" that combines a charming hot spring town with art museums, cafes, and galleries. With an abundance of hot spring water, you can enjoy a variety of bathing experiences, including public baths, hot springs at inns, and foot baths. The views of Mount Yufu and the fantastical scenery of Lake Kinrinko shrouded in morning mist are particularly popular.
Highlights
- Lake Kinrinko: The morning mist and evening scenery are beautiful, and the reflection of Mt. Yufu on the lake's surface is a famous sight. An early morning stroll is recommended.
- Yunotsubo Kaido: The main street lined with souvenir shops, cafes, and craft stores. Perfect for strolling and sampling local delicacies.
- Mount Yufu: A base for mountain climbing and hiking. The view from the summit is amazing (climbing depends on your equipment and physical strength).
- Themed walking spots such as Floral Village: Dotted with small facilities and general stores that are perfect for taking photos.
- Hot springs (ryokan, public baths, footbaths): Enjoy a variety of spring qualities and scenery. The standard way to relax is to stay at a ryokan with an open-air bath.
- Museums and Galleries: There are many unique private museums and art exhibition facilities, making for a cultural stay.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Yufuin Station. The hot spring town is within walking distance from the station (it takes about 15 minutes to 15 minutes to walk to Yunotsubo Kaido).
- Train: Accessible from Fukuoka (Hakata) by limited express trains (such as "Yufuin no Mori" and "Yufu"). Local and limited express trains are also available from Beppu and Oita.
- Bus: Express buses and local buses operate from Oita City, Beppu City, and Fukuoka. The number of buses varies depending on the season and time of day, so it is recommended to check in advance.
- By car: Access from the Oita Expressway (Yufuin IC). The town can get crowded with tourists, so be sure to pay attention to parking locations and times.
- Airport: Most people access the area by land using Oita Airport or Fukuoka Airport (travel time from the airport varies depending on the mode of transportation).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Day trip: 4-6 hours (including a stroll around the station, Lake Kinrin, lunch, and a short visit to the hot springs)
- Relaxed stay: 2 days and 1 night (ideal for enjoying dinner, a morning bath, and a morning stroll around Lake Kinrin)
- If you are enjoying nature and mountain climbing: We recommend staying one to two nights, including mountain climbing (depending on the round-trip time).
Nearby spots
- Beppu Onsen (Beppu City): Accessible by car or train from Yufuin. A bustling hot spring theme park.
- Around the trailhead for Mt. Yufu: A spot for exploring nature and taking photos.
- Nagayu Onsen (Taketa City area, etc.): A hot spring resort famous for its natural carbonated springs, located a short distance from Beppu and Yufuin.
- Tourist facilities in Oita City and Beppu City: You can combine tours of museums and hot springs to suit your schedule.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area is crowded on weekends, consecutive holidays (Golden Week, New Year's), and during the autumn foliage and cherry blossom seasons. We recommend making reservations early for accommodations and popular restaurants.
- Onsen etiquette: Please observe basic bathing etiquette, such as pouring water over yourself and washing your body before entering the bath, not putting towels in the bathtub, and avoiding occupying the bathtub for long periods of time. Many inns and public baths may refuse entry to guests with tattoos, so be sure to check in advance or arrange to cover your tattoo with stickers or similar.
- Food and drink/garbage: Please eat and drink at restaurants. Please take your garbage with you or use designated areas in the city.
- Pedestrian environment: In areas with a lot of tourists, sidewalks and roadsides tend to be crowded, and there is also car traffic, so please be careful if you are with small children or the elderly.
- Seasonal clothing: Mornings and evenings can be chilly in spring and autumn. Winter can be cold and snow can fall in mountainous areas, so be sure to bring warm clothing and non-slip shoes.
- Consideration for the natural environment: When hiking or taking nature walks around Mt. Yufu, please take safety precautions such as submitting a hiking notice, providing the necessary equipment, and avoiding bad weather.
Yufuin is a hot spring resort that is easy to appreciate even on a short stroll, but you can have a more relaxing stay by staying at an inn and enjoying the tranquility of the mornings and evenings and the morning mist of Lake Kinrin. Be sure to check the latest information on transportation and accommodation before visiting.
