Yufuin Onsen

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Yufuin Onsen

Sophisticated onsen resort, touted as “Karuizawa in the east and Yufuin in the west.”

3.32 5

Last update :
Supervised by :  Yufuin Onsen

Yufuin Onsen is a hot spring resort at the foot of Mt. Yufu at the heart of Oita Prefecture. There is no big hotel and many inns are tranquil Japanese style, which are popular among women visitors. The abundant hot spring is ranked 2nd on the water supply in the nation. Thanks to the many source springs, inns do not have to cluster, but are comfortably spaced. The sources are mainly alkaline simple springs. The soft water is effective for neuralgia, chills, fatigue, etc.

Another reason for Yufuin Onsen’s popularity is Mt. Yufu, the symbol of rich nature. The mountain can be seen from various spots in town and it is Yufuin’s landmark. At its foot, there is Lake Kinrin, where clear water springs from the lake floor and hot spring streams in. It was named after sparkling fish scales in the sunset. From fall to winter in low temperatures, the mist rising from the lake creates a dreamy scene. Near Lake Kinrin, Yunotsubo Kaido stretches for about 800m, where unique cafes, restaurants and souvenir stores stand along to provide shopping fun.

Highlights

  • Hot spring inns in a wide price range to meet your needs.
  • Lots of original sweets are available at the cafes inside inns and restaurants.
  • Stroll along a 400m path around Lake Kinrin.
  • Enjoy shopping along Yunotsubo Kaido.
  • At the tourist information center next to the Yufuin Station, you can register for a horse carriage ride or rental bicycle.

Photos

  • Second to Beppu Onsen, the amount of hot springs is ranked 2nd nationally

    Second to Beppu Onsen, the amount of hot springs is ranked 2nd nationally

  • About 1km-long Yunotsubo Kaido

    About 1km-long Yunotsubo Kaido

  • About 1-hour-long horse carriage tour over 4km

    About 1-hour-long horse carriage tour over 4km

  • the verdant Mt. Yufu is called Bungo-Fuji, standing as a symbol of Yufuin

    the verdant Mt. Yufu is called Bungo-Fuji, standing as a symbol of Yufuin

  • Lake Kinrin *Photo provider: iStock

    Lake Kinrin *Photo provider: iStock

  • The gate of Tenso Shrine standing in Lake Kinrin

    The gate of Tenso Shrine standing in Lake Kinrin

Reviews

5

Some reviews are AI-translated.

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    On a trip to Kyushu, of course you can't miss the famous Yufuin Onsen! Yufuin is surrounded by mountain scenery, and the streets have the relaxed atmosphere unique to a hot spring town. Just walking around naturally makes you slow down.

    What I like most about Yufuin is how the hot springs blend with the natural scenery, with the majestic Mt. Yufu visible in the distance. When the weather is cooler, you can also see light steam around the streets and hot spring inns, giving the whole scene the feel of a Japanese hot spring town.

    Besides soaking in the hot springs, I also explored Yunotsubo Kaido, eating snacks and buying souvenirs along the way before taking a walk near Lake Kinrin. Strolling and stopping whenever I wanted, without packing the schedule too tightly, made it easier to enjoy Yufuin's comfortable, laid-back atmosphere.

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    I've always felt that the best way to really get to know a hot spring town is to stay overnight. Yufuin Onsen is known as a dream hot spring town for working women in Japan, and I've visited twice to experience its charm for myself.

    The first time, I stayed at the old-house guesthouse “Yufuin Lamp no Yado” near the train station. The most satisfying part was the selection of reservable private family baths, where you could enjoy an uninterrupted soak. The second time, I chose “Yufuin Shuhokan” by Lake Kinrin and enjoyed the wonderful lake and mountain scenery. The two completely different stays and hot spring experiences perfectly showcased Yufuin's dual charm—warm and rustic, yet surrounded by magnificent mountains. It makes you want to return again and again and savor the memories.

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    Yufuin Onsen is a spot you really shouldn’t miss when visiting Kyushu.

    Strolling through the streets, you’ll find unique little shops, the sweet scent of desserts, and a relaxed atmosphere on both sides. You can also enjoy beautiful views of Mt. Yufu in the distance.

    Take your time walking and browsing, and soak in the quiet warmth of the town. This kind of easygoing travel pace makes it so hard to leave.

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    This is a hot spring resort, and there's also Yunotsubo Street nearby where you can stroll and shop. There are so many stores—it's a great place to shop and explore. It's always been a super popular travel destination in Japan.

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    It's really worth spending 2-3 days here! There are plenty of spots to check out on both the east and west sides of Lake Kinrin. Staying at your favorite hot spring inn and soaking in the onsen will make you miss this trip for sure!

Details

Name in Japanese
由布院温泉
Postal Code
879-5102
Address
Yufuincho, Yufu City, Oita
Hours
Depend on facilities
Closed
Depend on facilities
Admission
Depend on facilities
Direction
1) From JR Beppu Station, ride the express train Yufu or Yufuin-no-Mori for an hour and 5 min.
2) From Beppu Kitahama bus stop, ride the express tour bus Yufurin for an hour and 13 min.
Credit Cards
Depend on facilities
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa