What Is Yufuin Famous For?
Yufuin Onsen is one of Japan’s most popular hot spring towns.
It is located in Oita Prefecture in Kyushu and is known for its relaxing atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and charming streets.
Unlike larger hot spring resorts, Yufuin has a quiet and stylish feel with small shops, cafes, and traditional ryokan.
Visitors come to Yufuin for:
・Hot springs (onsen)
・Beautiful countryside scenery
・Street food and local sweets
・Views of Mount Yufu (Yufudake)
It’s a perfect destination for a relaxing trip in Japan.
Easy Walking Itinerary in Yufuin (Half-Day)
Yufuin is a compact town, so many attractions are within walking distance.
Start from Yufuin Station.
Recommended Route
1. Walk from the station to Yunotsubo Kaido Street
2. Enjoy local snacks and shopping
3. Visit Kinrin Lake
4. Walk around the lake and relax
Estimated time: 2–3 hours
This is the most popular route for first-time visitors.
Explore Yufuin by Bicycle
You can rent bicycles near Yufuin Station, and cycling is one of the best ways to explore the area.
Electric bikes are recommended because the town has some gentle hills.
Average rental price:
・Regular bike: around 1,000 yen per day
・Electric bike: around 1,500–2,000 yen per day
Easy Cycling Route
1. Start at Yufuin Station
2. Pass through the Yunotsubo area
3. Visit Kinrin Lake
4. Ride to the countryside with views of Mount Yufu
5. Stop at a café
6. Return to the station
Estimated time: 3–4 hours
Cycling allows you to see a quieter and more scenic side of Yufuin.
Hiking Mount Yufu (Yufudake)
One of the most iconic landmarks of Yufuin is Mount Yufu (Yufudake).
It is often called the “Mt. Fuji of Oita” because of its beautiful shape.
If you enjoy nature and hiking, climbing Mount Yufu can be a memorable experience during your trip to Yufuin.
The mountain has two main peaks (East Peak and West Peak), and many hikers climb the East Peak.
Basic Hiking Information
・Starting point: Yufudake Trailhead (about 15 minutes by bus or car from Yufuin Station)
・Time to the summit: about 2 to 3 hours one way
・Difficulty: Moderate
・Best seasons: Spring, early summer, and autumn
On clear days, you can enjoy amazing views of the countryside and surrounding mountains.
Important Tips for Travelers
Before hiking Mount Yufu, please keep these points in mind:
1. Start early in the day
Weather in the mountains can change quickly, and it is safer to finish your hike before sunset.
2. Wear proper hiking shoes
The trail is rocky and can be slippery in some areas.
3. Bring enough water and snacks
There are no shops or vending machines on the mountain.
4. Check the weather forecast
Avoid hiking during rain, strong wind, or typhoon season.
5. The West Peak route is more difficult
Some parts require scrambling and are not recommended for beginners.
Is Mount Yufu Good for Casual Travelers?
Mount Yufu is a beautiful mountain, but it may not be suitable for everyone.
It is recommended for:
・travelers who like hiking
・people with half a day or more in Yufuin
・visitors who want to see nature beyond the town
If you prefer a relaxed trip, simply enjoying the view of Mount Yufu from the countryside or town is also wonderful.
Enjoy a Day Trip Hot Spring
Since Yufuin is a famous hot spring town, trying an onsen is highly recommended.
Many ryokan offer day-use hot spring baths, so you can enjoy an onsen even if you are not staying overnight.
A relaxing hot spring after walking around town is one of the best ways to experience Yufuin.
Tattoo-Friendly Onsen
To help travelers with tattoos enjoy hot springs with peace of mind, we’ve picked out a few tattoo-friendly onsen. Please note that policies can change, so it’s always best to confirm with the facility ahead of time.
Tattoo Allowed
♨Yurari Rokumyo
Yufuin Onsen Yurari Rokumyo›
♨Yufuin Sumika
Yufuin Onsen Yufuin Sumika›
♨Yutorinoyado Ikkoten
Yufuin Onsen Yutorinoyado Ikkoten›
Private Bath Only
♨Yawaragi No Sato Yadoya
Yufuin Onsen Yawaragi No Sato Yadoya›
♨Ryoso Yufuin Yamadaya
Yufuin Onsen Ryoso Yufuin Yamadaya›
There are many other wounderful places to stay in Yufuin, so please check them out on this page!
