2024 Yufu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Yufuin 2-Day 1-Night Experience: Luxury Camping, Unique Attractions, Perfect for Family or Friends

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience - Glamping 📍 Itinerary Introduction Experience the natural beauty of Yufuin and luxury camping, enjoy outdoor activities and local cuisine, making it the perfect choice for spending quality time with family or friends. The campsite features private hot springs, allowing you to relax while enjoying nature. 🚩 Travel Route Day 1: - 09:00 — Arrive in Yufuin and head to the Glamping site - 10:00 — Check-in and get familiar with the surroundings - 11:00 — Participate in a nature hiking activity in Yufuin - 13:00 — Lunch (at the outdoor restaurant in the Glamping site) - 14:30 — Free activities such as fishing, cycling, or enjoying the private hot springs - 17:00 — Return to the campsite and prepare for dinner - 18:30 — Enjoy a BBQ dinner outdoors - 20:00 — Stargazing and enjoying a campfire party Day 2: - 08:00 — Breakfast (at the campsite) - 09:00 — Participate in a yoga class or meditation activity - 11:00 — Free exploration of the surrounding natural scenery - 12:30 — Lunch (at a nearby restaurant) - 14:00 — Visit Yufuin's art town and local shops - Yufuin Art Museum: 09:00 - 17:00 (closed irregularly) - Yufuin Stained Glass Museum: 09:00 - 17:00 (closed on Tuesdays) - Yufuin Folk Craft Village: 10:00 - 17:00 (no fixed holidays) - Yufuin Handmade Workshop: 10:00 - 17:00 (no fixed holidays) - Yufuin Literature Forest: 10:00 - 18:00 (open all year round) - Yufuin Kogen Onsen Art Gallery: 10:00 - 17:00 (no fixed holidays) - Yufuin Glass Studio: 10:00 - 17:00 (usually closed on Tuesdays) - 16:00 — Return to the departure point 🏖️ Must-Visit Spots - Yufuin Onsen: Enjoy the local hot spring culture and relax. - Mount Yufu: Capture beautiful mountain scenery. - Yufuin Town: Explore local art and handmade goods. 🚇 Transportation - Self-drive: About 40 minutes from Oita City. - Public transport: Take the train to Yufuin Station, then transfer to a bus or taxi. 📷 Photo Spots - Glamping site: Capture the comfortable camping environment and beautiful natural scenery. - Stargazing: A perfect spot for night sky photography. - Mount Yufu: Capture magnificent mountain views. 🍜 Local Cuisine - BBQ dinner at the Glamping site. - Yufuin's local specialty ramen. - Delicious dishes made from fresh local ingredients. 🏠 Accommodation Recommendations 1. The Village Onsen Glamping - Features: Offers a luxurious camping experience with private hot springs and elegant surroundings. - Facilities: Independent tents, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and private hot springs. 💡 Notes - Book accommodation and activities in advance to ensure availability. - Check the weather forecast and prepare appropriate clothing. - Pay attention to safety and follow local rules.

A Relaxing Trip to Yufuin

Yufuin is a charming hot spring town located in the heart of Yufu City, Oita Prefecture, Japan. Known for its beautiful natural scenery and leisurely atmosphere, it attracts many visitors seeking relaxation and healing. Despite its small size, Yufuin's unique charm and tranquil environment offer a sense of comfort and peace away from the hustle and bustle of city life. One of Yufuin's most famous attractions is Lake Kinrin, a lake surrounded by mountains and forests. In the early morning, the lake is often shrouded in mist, and the shimmering water creates a picturesque scene. The surface of Lake Kinrin sparkles with golden light under the sun, symbolizing the town's vitality and energy. Many visitors enjoy strolling along the lakeside, feeling a close connection with nature. With its leisurely and serene atmosphere, magnificent natural scenery, and abundant hot spring resources, Yufuin has become an ideal vacation destination for many. Whether you come to enjoy the beauty of nature or immerse yourself in the healing hot springs, Yufuin offers an unforgettable relaxing experience.

Beautiful Autumn Vibes in Kinrin Lake

#familytrips2024 The lake is very beautiful, with a view of the mountains. We visited the lake for autumn leaves in November. There were many people and cars, but the views were amazing. Parking was a challenge due to the crowd and narrow streets. It cost 400 yen per day to go down to the bottom, but we parked at 500 yen per day before it got congested. There is a beautiful Shinto shrine on the southeastern shore. I recommend visiting if you have the time, as it's free. Our dream destination for our family trip is China as it's rich history, diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine make it a captivating place to visit.

Tonari no Totoro Totoro~

#wecreate #japan #yufuin If you are a Ghibli fan, you definitely have to visit this shop! This is the Donguri no Mori store located just five minutes away from Yufuin station. Yufuin is a 3 hours ride from Hakata station. There are many ryokan around to start at, they are famous for Onsen. This stir is filled with Ghibli character merchandises and they have many cute photo spots for you to take photos at. It’s so cute!

Beautiful little town

#japan #Yufuin This is the Yufuin Floral village situated in Yufuin, Oita Prefecture. It takes around 2.5 hours from Hakata station to Yufuin station. I would highly recommend to stay at least one night there as there are many eateries and unique shops around. If you are a Ghibli fan, this is the place you should visit! You can go to KiKi’s bakery shop and the village just looks like a scene from the studio Ghibli’s movies. Perfect.

Ryokan First Time : )

i love onsen somuch. Yufuin is one of my bucket lists. I went there before covid situation. i book the ryokan style hotel. it's so nice, food, onsen, facilities. 🍜🍘🍱

When I arrived at Yufuin, it was already at night, and I didnt pay attention to the scenery of the courtyard, but I was happy to have a facility that was plunged into the hot spring hotel. The scheduled banquet cuisine is still a feast, Kyushu chicken pot and a table of Japanese cuisine. Japanese cuisine can be tasted not only with the tongue, but also with the eyes. Food and containers must be set off against each other. Swinging and decoration are also critical. After enjoying the big meal on the table with our eyes, we started to sit down and eat. This hot spring hotel is quite large, and the room facing the courtyard can be seen from the far from Yufu. In the morning, the fog is very big. After eating, you can go to the courtyard on the side of the lobby and take in the fendo. The hotel has an open-air hot spring. Before eating, before going to bed, and after waking up, it is the right way to open the hot spring hotel.

Yufuin | A museum designed by Kengo Kuma.

Located in Yufuin, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan, the Comico Art Museum Yufuin (COMICO ART MUSEUM YUFUIN) was designed by Kengo Kuma. The black, irregularly shaped building is diagonally cut with aluminum, extending into the sky and blending with the surrounding mountains. The museum features works by famous artists such as Yoshitomo Nara, Yayoi Kusama, Tatsuo Miyajima, and Hiroshi Sugimoto, attracting many architecture and art enthusiasts. The COMICO Art Museum in Yufuin is also a famous work, designed by Kengo Kuma and with a logo designed by Kenya Hara. The museum is located deep in a side road off the main road, with black charred cedar wood on the exterior walls. The charred cedar fully reveals the texture of the wood, warm and deep. Kengo Kuma's consistent use of natural materials such as earth, wood, water, and Japanese paper makes the building disappear into nature, not for display but as an existence, surrounded by tranquil rice fields, resembling an ancient village at the foot of Mount Yufu. The museum is relatively small, with two exhibition halls. One of the halls features Hiroshi Sugimoto's photography works with the theme of the sea. Sugimoto has been capturing the world's seas with black-and-white film. These works only feature the sea, sky, and a line, only black, white, and gray. A sense of dim emptiness and vague shadow comes over you, often praised but somewhat oppressive.

Yufuin Onsen.

In early November, the weather in Yufuin is slightly cool. At night, the temperature is perfect for soaking in hot springs. We chose a secluded hot spring resort. The scenery upon arrival was beautiful. We walked all the way from Yufuin Station, enjoying the countryside scenery of Japan. The breeze was gentle, and the air was very fresh. The temperature of the hotel's spring water was just right. Soaking in the hot spring while admiring the beautiful scenery washed away all our physical and mental fatigue 😊

Mt Yufu and explore Yufuinchokawakami in a Rickshaw

Yufuin is a very pretty Onsen town on the Japanese Island of Kyushu, it’s approximately an hour in a local train from Oita. Not hard to spend several days here exploring. We hired a car which we picked up from an office very close to the train station and it gave us a lot more freedom.

Time slows down

Imagine arriving at Yufuin Yusaryo, nestled in the serene, green valley of Yufuin. The air is crisp, with hints of cedar and distant mountain mist. After checking in, you’re escorted to your private room—a perfect blend of modern comforts and traditional Japanese aesthetics. After settling in, you step into your own private onsen, a tranquil bath fed by the region’s hot springs, surrounded by smooth stones. The water is perfectly warm, and as you ease into it, the soothing heat seeps through your body, melting away every last trace of tension. You can hear the soft trickle of water, feel the gentle breeze brushing through the windows. Time slows down, and you let yourself sink into the peace of the moment. #yufuin #japan #ryokan

One Day in Yufu via one of the most sceneric train, Yufuin on Mori

Embark on the Yufuin no Mori train for a scenic journey through lush forests and charming towns. Arrive in Yufuin, a picturesque onsen town nestled at the foot of Mount Yufu. Stroll around Kinrin Lake, where morning mist creates a magical atmosphere. Visit the whimsical Totoro Shop for delightful Ghibli merchandise. Wander through the enchanting Yufuin Floral Village, a slice of English countryside in Japan. Finally, savor a bowl of authentic ramen at a cozy local restaurant, completing your perfect day in Yufuin. 🏞️🍜🚂 🚞Yufuin no Mori (Hakata - Yufuin) * This train is included in JR Kyushu Pass (Northern/All) but need to reserve the seat. **I got 4A seat in the first train but it's the last seat for this round, super busy because people will come to take photos. ***Ice cream and sprakling water are really worth to buy during summer! Totoro - Ghibli Merchandise 📍3019-1 Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Oita 879-5102, Japan ⏰ Mon-Thu 10:00AM - 5:00PM / Fri-Sun 9:30AM - 5:30 PM Kinrin Lake 📍Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Oita 879-5102, Japan Yufuin Floral Village 📍1503-3 Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Oita 879-5102, Japan Local Restaurant - 食楽処 和 （なごみ） 📍3726-1 Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Oita 879-5102, Japan ⏰ Everyday 11:30AM - 2:00PM / 6:00PM - 9:00PM #100waysoftravel #yufuinnomori #train #kyushu #oita #yufuin #kinrinlake #lake #thingstodo #japan #japantrip #japantravel #japanese #japanesefood #ramen #trip #travel #nature #asia #asiatrip

Oita | A plethora of works by modern art masters!

Yayoi Kusama, Yoshitomo Nara, Takashi Murakami, and many more... A museum filled with works by artists whose names are synonymous with contemporary art. "COMICO ART MUSEUM YUFUIN" This time, I had the opportunity to tour with a curator who taught me a lot. Even though I had zero knowledge of contemporary art, learning about the background stories made it resonate with me, and I found it fascinating—I might just become an art enthusiast! Yayoi Kusama's polka dots are a release of her suffering. Takashi Murakami enjoys creating his works surrounded by people. Conversely, Yoshitomo Nara prefers to face his work alone. Hiroshi Sugimoto's seascapes depict unchanging landscapes from ancient to modern times. However, behind the scenes of those photographs, unlike ancient times, there were people fleeing from war. I could go on and on about what I felt, but I'll stop here. I hope everyone gets to see it and confront their own emotions. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ COMICO ART MUSEUM YUFUIN 📍 2995-1 Kawakami, Yufuin-cho, Yufu-shi, Oita 🕐 9:30-16:00 ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

Stepping into a Fairy Tale Hot Spring Resort.

Yufuin in winter is truly magical! ❄️ As someone who frequently travels to Japan, I have fallen in love with this charming little town. Yufuin Street, adorned with snow, showcases a unique Japanese style. Strolling through it, the small shops 🛍️ on both sides offer exquisite handicrafts and local delicacies, making it a feast for the eyes. In the cold weather, warm udon and ramen 🍜 are must-try delicacies, especially the local dango 🍡, which is sweet but not cloying, leaving a lasting impression. Of course, a visit to Yufuin wouldn't be complete without experiencing the hot springs! Soaking in the steaming hot springs while admiring the snowy scenery outside the window is the ultimate winter pleasure. ♨️ This trip to Yufuin made me appreciate the unique charm of Japan in winter. Whether it's the food, culture, or natural scenery, it leaves you wanting more. For your next trip, make sure to add Yufuin to your list! 🏔️ Transportation: 1. Take a bus from Oita Airport Bus Station to 'Yufuin Station Front (由布院駅前バスセンター)', about a 55-minute ride 2. Get off at Yufuin Station Front Bus Center Travel time: about 1 hour and 20 minutes

How to Enjoy Hot Springs in Yufuin Without Staying Overnight

Nurokawa Ryokan in Yufuin, Japan! I visited there recently. I couldn't stay overnight, but I really wanted to experience a hot spring in Japan. During my search, I found out that Nurokawa Ryokan offers public hot spring baths for day-trippers. So, I enjoyed the hot springs at a reasonable price without staying overnight! If you can't stay overnight, make sure to enjoy the hot springs like I did!

Where to stay in Musouen

✨Hotel Highlights 8/10 ♨️Amenities 8/10 🛁Room Environment 7/10 🍽️Breakfast 9/10 🛎️Hotel Service 9/10 💗Guest Experience 8/10 It’s an onsen hotel. It has private and public onsen with nice view of Mount Yufu.

Serene moments in Yufuin

Kinrin Lake is a a must visit in Yufuin. It’s a 10 minutes walk from the Yufuin train station. There are shops along the way to the lake.

Lovely Hot Spring Town Yufuin

If you're looking for a charming Japanese hot spring town, Yufuin should be your first choice. Not only does it offer a variety of traditional Japanese inns (ryokan), but the main street of Yufuin is also dotted with shops selling cute accessories and trinkets, allowing you to enjoy both hot spring baths and shopping in one go. We stayed at Makibanoie, a traditional Japanese ryokan, and the hot spring bath there was incredibly refreshing. I highly recommend Yufuin as the top destination for a hot spring trip. 🔹️Yufuin - Yufu City, Oita Prefecture

Take the Yufuin no Mori train and enjoy Yufuin Onsen.

Yufuin is located in Oita Prefecture, Japan, and is a small town famous for its hot springs and natural beauty. The town experiences distinct seasons, with cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter, making Yufuin a year-round travel destination. Major attractions in Yufuin include Mount Yufu, Lake Kinrin, and Yufuin Onsen, which draw numerous domestic and international tourists for sightseeing and leisure. Yufuin no Mori is a special sightseeing train that operates between Hakata and Yufuin. Known for its unique design and comfortable interior, the train features extensive use of wood and green plants, creating a natural and relaxing atmosphere. Passengers can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Kyushu region during the journey, making for a pleasant trip. The train also offers local specialty foods and drinks, allowing travelers to savor the flavors of Yufuin while on board. Yufuin Onsen is one of Japan's renowned hot springs, famous for its high-quality hot spring water and abundant facilities. The mineral-rich hot spring water is beneficial for the skin and overall health. Yufuin Onsen Street is the best place for visitors to experience the local hot spring culture. The street is lined with various hot spring inns, restaurants, and specialty shops, where visitors can enjoy hot spring baths, taste local cuisine, and purchase souvenirs. Especially at night, the street is brightly lit, creating a romantic atmosphere.

Recommended Japanese Ryokan

Introducing Iyotomi Ryokan in Yufuin, Japan. Yufuin Iyotomi, a traditional ryokan that has been passed down for four generations, is one of the most popular ryokans among Koreans due to its good value for money and convenient location. It is a Japanese hot spring inn where you can immerse yourself in warm spring water. 🔸️由布院いよとみ 📍Japan 〒879-5103 Oita, Yufu, Yufuincho Kawaminami 848 ⏰️Check-in 3 PM, Check-out 10 AM

Fukuoka Travel Must-Visit Destination: Yufuin Ryokan Village

When traveling to Fukuoka, one of the most famous places to visit is the ryokan and hot spring village of Yufuin. Yufuin offers a different atmosphere whether it's raining or sunny, making it a wonderful place to visit at any time. If you're planning a trip to Yufuin, consider staying overnight at a ryokan. You can spend your time exploring the nearby shopping streets and taking a stroll around Kinrin Lake, making the most of your visit.

Healing in Yufuin, the leisure of walking from Yufuin Station to Kinrin Lake.

The most convenient way to get from Fukuoka Hakata Station to Yufuin is by taking the JR Kyushu Limited Express 'Yufuin no Mori' train. This train takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes from Fukuoka to Yufuin, and the beautiful scenery outside the window makes the journey enjoyable. In particular, the Yufuin no Mori train offers a relaxing atmosphere with its large windows and wooden interior. Since this train departs from Hakata Station and requires a reservation, it is recommended to book in advance. It is about 1.2 km from Yufuin Station to Kinrin Lake, which takes about 15 minutes on foot. As you leave the station, you will find small shops and cafes that allow you to feel the unique atmosphere of Yufuin. Walking through the streets with the scent of hot springs, you will feel as if time is flowing slowly, and this leisurely walk in nature feels very precious. When you arrive at Kinrin Lake, you can enjoy the mystical scenery of the rising mist, and the view of the trees surrounding the lake is truly impressive. To fully enjoy Yufuin, it is recommended to arrive early in the morning and take a leisurely stroll through the streets. Walking through the quiet streets before the tourists arrive is the best way to experience the true charm of Yufuin. In addition to the Yufuin no Mori train, if you want to enjoy the hot springs in Yufuin, it is better to choose an onsen ryokan that can be reserved in advance. Enjoying a leisurely tea at a cafe around Kinrin Lake or tasting the famous roll cake in Yufuin are also pleasures that should not be missed.

Yufuin Onsen Tokoan

This trip, I stayed with two friends, making a total of three people. The room was very spacious, with three single beds and a private hot spring. The TV in the room was relatively old and couldn't connect to Netflix/Disney Plus. The private hot spring was very comfortable, and you could adjust the water flow to control the temperature. The inn provided breakfast and dinner, with different dishes every day. The sashimi was fresh and delicious.

Enjoy the golden pampas grass swaying at Yufudake

An observation deck where you can get a panoramic view of Yufuin town from an altitude of about 680m. Sagiri-dai One of Kyushu's premier driving courses Located on the Yamanami Highway (Prefectural Route 11) from Yufuin to Beppu, you can also see the beautiful autumn foliage 🍁 At the foot of Yufudake, you can feel the magnificent nature, and wherever you look, there is golden pampas grass 🌾 The swaying pampas grass was very beautiful. There was also free parking! Kawakami, Yufuin-cho, Yufu City, Oita Prefecture 15 minutes by car from "Yufuin IC" on the Oita Expressway

A Healing Ryokan with Private Hot Springs and a Beautiful Garden

Kaede no Shoja is a special ryokan located in the serene nature of Yufuin, where you can enjoy private hot springs and a beautiful garden. Each room comes with its own private hot spring, making it the perfect place to relax with family or a loved one. The ryokan's garden showcases different charms each season, offering a peaceful atmosphere that blends with nature and provides a healing experience. Kaede no Shoja is highly recommended for your Yufuin trip, where you can enjoy hot springs and the garden in a tranquil and private setting! Address: 1270-28 Kawaminami, Yufuincho, Yufu, Oita 879-5103, Japan

Yufudake Trekking: Spectacular Views and Healing in Yufuin

The route from Yufuin to Mount Yufudake is incredibly beautiful. Starting from Yufuin Station, a 15-minute walk brings you to the entrance of the 'Yufudake Trekking Course.' Initially, the path is flat, but it gradually becomes steeper as you enter the mountain trail. The trekking route takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on your fitness level. There are rest spots along the way where you can take in the scenery and rest at your leisure. Upon reaching the summit of Yufudake, the first thing that catches your eye is the expansive view. The Yufuin Basin, spread out beneath the clouds, is truly a sight to behold. From here, you can see the hot spring village and lush forests below, creating a picturesque landscape. Especially in autumn, the fall foliage is breathtaking, attracting many visitors. Visiting during sunrise or sunset offers an even more magical experience. Although Yufudake is not a very high mountain, it is one of Japan's famous trekking spots. The difficulty level is not too challenging, making it accessible even for beginners. The fresh air and moderate exercise make for a highly appealing experience. The sense of accomplishment and the view from the summit combine to provide a precious time to escape daily life and connect with nature.

Scenic Wonderland: Kinrin Lake

Kinrin Lake is one of the famous attractions located in Yufuin, renowned for its stunning morning mist scenery that is exclusive to autumn and winter! The lakeside trail is approximately 400 meters long, taking about 10 to 15 minutes to walk around. When the morning temperature is low, you can see a thin layer of white mist rising from the lake, creating an enchanting and mesmerizing view 😍 The best time for photography is from sunrise to around 8 AM during autumn and winter! On the south side of Kinrin Lake, there is a stone torii gate standing in the lake, which belongs to the nearby Tenso Shrine. Within the shrine grounds, there is also a giant thousand-year-old cedar tree listed as a 'Natural Monument' of Japan, making it a famous energy spot worth visiting and checking in! Address: 1561-1 Kawakami, Yufuin-cho, Yufu-shi, Oita Prefecture Transportation: About a 25-minute walk from JR Yufuin Station

Miffy Fans Must Visit: Yufuin Forest Kitchen

Forest Kitchen is a Miffy-themed specialty store located in Yufuin. This two-story forest cabin is filled with Miffy figures, and even the windows are shaped like rabbits, making it incredibly cute! The first floor sells Miffy-shaped bread and desserts, and also offers Yufuin-exclusive Miffy merchandise and souvenirs for tourists to purchase. The second floor is a dining area with various photo spots and a parent-child space for kids to play. It's a themed store that both adults and children will love! Address: 1503-8 Kawakami, Yufuincho, Yufu City, Oita Prefecture

If you're looking for an inn with plenty of family baths, this is the place in Yufu City, Oita Prefecture.

Oita Prefecture🫧Yufu City Yunohira Kamiyanagiya Did you know that Yunohira Onsen has a longer history than Yufuin Onsen? It has been thriving as a hot spring resort since the Edo period. I stayed at the Kamiyanagiya Inn, a hot spring inn located in Yunohira. The excellent hot springs of Yunohira are weak saline springs, which are said to be good for gastrointestinal diseases when drunk. The alkaline simple hot spring water is gentle on the skin, making it smooth and silky🥹🥹✨ This inn has a lot of family baths, and you can enter them freely at any time (until 11 PM at night). Of course, there is also a semi-open-air hot spring in the room, but it's fun to change the mood and try various hot springs🥺✨♨️ 🚗/1007 Yunohira, Yufuin-cho, Yufu City, Oita Prefecture

【Oita Prefecture/Yufu City】A Hidden Hot Spring with Photogenic Lanterns Resembling Jiufen.

𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐩*⋆✈Oita𓂃 𓈒𓏸Yufu City Yunohira Onsen Stone Pavement Yufu City has several hot spring areas, and among them is Yunohira Onsen, known as a hidden hot spring. I took a train for about 10 minutes from Yufuin Station to Yunohira. This place was also used as a filming location for the movie 'It's Tough Being a Man.' The retro stone pavement was originally built to pray for the eradication of diseases. At night, it is illuminated and looks like a mini Jiufen 🥹🏮 It was charming and wonderful! The inn where I stayed offered lanterns for rent, so I borrowed one. 🚗/Yunohira, Yufuin Town, Yufu City, Oita Prefecture 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄 𓐄