Nestled at the foot of Mount Yufu in Oita Prefecture, Yufuin has Japan's second-largest hot spring discharge volume, yet unlike the boisterous entertainment district of nearby Beppu, it built its reputation on quiet ryokan, galleries, and boutique shops in a small-town setting. Lake Kinrinko on the town's east side is famous for the mist that rises off its surface at dawn, fed in part by hot spring water seeping into the lakebed. Most ryokan here follow the one-night, two-meal tradition, pairing an open-air bath with a kaiseki dinner. From Yufuin Station, the main shopping street, Yunotsubo-gai, makes for a pleasant walk soaking in the onsen-town atmosphere.
Highlights
Morning stroll around Lake Kinrinko as mist rises off the water
Quiet ryokan culture pairing open-air baths with kaiseki dinners
Galleries, craft workshops, and dessert shops along Yunotsubo-gai
Onsen-town scenery framed by Mount Yufu in the background
Good to know
SafetyLighting is sparse around Lake Kinrinko at night, so watch your footing on evening walks.
SeasonWeekends during cherry blossom and autumn foliage season can book out months in advance.
Β·Riding the Yufuin no Mori limited express from Hakata or Beppu turns the train ride itself into part of the sightseeing.
MannersMany popular ryokan don't accept same-day bookings or walk-ins, so reserve well ahead.
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