Yufuin: A Hot Spring Village Beneath Mount Yufu
How to visit Yufuin in Oita: the misty Lake Kinrin, the Yunotsubo street, staying in a ryokan and riding the Yufuin no Mori train.
Quick answer
- What it is: a hot spring town in Oita Prefecture, at the foot of Mount Yufu.
- Famous for: Lake Kinrin's morning mist, ryokan with outdoor baths and a lively shopping street.
- Time needed: a day trip, or one night in a ryokan.
- Train: the Yufuin no Mori sightseeing train runs from Fukuoka.
- Best time: autumn and winter mornings for mist on the lake.
- Map: Open Yufuin in Google Maps
On cold mornings, mist drifts off Lake Kinrin in Yufuin, warmed by hot springs flowing into it. Above, the twin peaks of Mount Yufu watch over a town of cosy inns, galleries and cafes.
Why Yufuin is a wonder
Yufuin is one of Japan's most popular hot spring towns, but it has kept a calm, rural feel, with rice fields and small inns rather than big hotels.
Lake Kinrin is fed by both cold spring water and hot spring water. On cool mornings, the difference in temperature creates rising mist.
Street, art and baths
The Yunotsubo Kaido street is lined with sweet shops, small museums and craft stores.
Many ryokan have private outdoor baths with views of Mount Yufu, perfect after a day of walking.
What to see
| Spot | What you see | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Kinrin | Morning mist and reflections | 30 minutes |
| Yunotsubo Kaido | A shopping street of sweets and crafts | 1 hour |
| Yufuin Floral Village | A small storybook-style village | 30 minutes |
| Public baths | Simple hot spring baths for day visitors | 45 minutes |
| Mount Yufu | A hiking trail to the summit | 4 to 5 hours |
When to go
- Autumn and winter mornings: mist over Lake Kinrin.
- Autumn: red leaves around the lake.
- Evening: quiet streets once day-trippers leave.
- Weekdays: easier ryokan bookings.
Our tip: Stay overnight and walk to Lake Kinrin just after sunrise. The mist is at its best before the day visitors arrive.
Getting there
- From Fukuoka: the Yufuin no Mori train from Hakata takes about 2 hours 15 minutes.
- From Beppu: buses take about 1 hour.
- In town: the main sights are within walking distance of Yufuin Station.
Bathing etiquette
- Wash before entering the bath.
- Keep towels out of the water.
- Check each bath's tattoo policy.
- Do not eat while walking on crowded streets.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Lake Kinrin misty?
Hot spring water flowing into the lake creates mist on cold mornings.
How do you get to Yufuin from Fukuoka?
Take the Yufuin no Mori train from Hakata, about 2 hours 15 minutes.
Is Yufuin near Beppu?
Yes, about 1 hour by bus.
Should you stay overnight in Yufuin?
Yes, if you can, to enjoy a ryokan and the morning mist.
Gokayama
Steep thatched farmhouses in two small villages deep in the Toyama mountains.
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