Yufuin

Yufuin is an elegant and tranquil hot spring resort that serves as a quieter alternative to neighboring Beppu. Set in a lush valley at the base of the twin-peaked Mt. Yufu, the town emphasizes art, nature, and a boutique atmosphere. The scenic Lake Kinrin is the town's focal point, where warm spring water often creates a mystical morning mist during the colder months. The main street, Yunotsubo, is lined with chic cafes, artisanal craft shops, and small museums. Unlike many large-scale onsen towns, Yufuin has retained a rural charm by restricting the development of high-rise hotels. Visitors can enjoy traditional horse-drawn carriage tours (Tsuiba) through the surrounding rice paddies and countryside. Reaching the town via the 'Yufuin no Mori' sightseeing train is a highlight in itself. The best times to visit are during the autumn foliage season or the spring cherry blossoms. It is a convenient destination for those seeking high-quality ryokans and a sophisticated cultural experience.

Nearby cities

Kitakyushu

Kitakyushu is the northernmost city on the island of Kyushu and historically an important center of the steel industry.

Beppu

Japan's most famous onsen city, renowned for its massive output of thermal water and spectacular 'hells'.

Itoshima

A charming coastal city in Fukuoka Prefecture, known for its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and fresh local produce.

Yukuhashi

Yukuhashi is a scenic city in Fukuoka Prefecture, known for its vast tidal flats and rich local culture.

Fukutsu

Coastal city in Fukuoka, famous for expansive beaches and the Miyajidake Shrine 'path of light' phenomenon.

Kanda

Industrial port town in Fukuoka with ecological treasures like the Majima tidal island area.

Ashiya

A charming coastal town in Fukuoka Prefecture, known for its sand sculpture competition and Ashiya Beach.

Kurokawa Onsen

An idyllic hot spring village in Kumamoto known for its outdoor baths and traditional charm.

Oita

Oita is a coastal city on Kyushu and the gateway to the famous hot springs of Beppu and Yufuin.

Usuki

Usuki is a historic castle town in Oita Prefecture, famous for its ancient stone Buddhas and well-preserved samurai district.

Ube

A port city in Yamaguchi Prefecture, known as the 'City of Sculptures' and for its beautiful parks.

Sanyo-Onoda

Sanyo-Onoda is a coastal city in Yamaguchi known for its industrial history and beautiful sunsets at the beach.

Hofu

A historic city on the Seto Inland Sea featuring grand shrines and beautiful gardens.

Shimonoseki

The Fugu capital of Japan on the Kanmon Straits, famous for world-class seafood, historic temples, and scenic coastal stretches.

Kumamoto

Kumamoto is a historic castle town on Kyushu, whose black castle is among the most impressive in Japan.

History & landmarks

Hagi

A preserved samurai town on the Sea of Japan coast, celebrated for its history and Hagi-yaki pottery.

Takachiho Gorge

A stunning gorge formed by the Gokase River, with sheer volcanic basalt cliffs.

More places

Kitakyushu Industrial Zone

One of Japan's four major industrial zones, historically known for steel production and heavy industry.

Dazaifu Tenmangū Shrine

A major Shinto shrine built over the grave of Sugawara no Michizane, a Heian period scholar and politician who was posthumously deified a…

Port of Hakata

The largest port in Kyushu, a vital gateway for trade with mainland Asia, especially Korea and China.

Hells of Beppu (Jigoku)

A series of spectacular hot springs for viewing, not for bathing.

Aso-Kujū National Park

A national park in Kumamoto and Ōita Prefectures with the active volcano Mount Aso and the Kujū mountains.

Usuki Stone Buddhas

A collection of dozens of Heian and Kamakura period stone Buddhas carved into soft volcanic rock cliffs.

Aso Caldera

The Aso Caldera is one of the largest in the world and contains several active volcanic cones, including Mount Nakadake.