Things To Do
in Yufu

Yufu, Japan, nestled in Oita Prefecture, is renowned for its exquisite hot springs and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The town is steeped in history, boasting ancient shrines and traditional ryokan inns that offer a glimpse into Japanese culture.

Visitors can enjoy the beautiful landscapes, particularly the iconic Mount Yufu, which is often referred to as the 'Fuji of Beppu.' With a tranquil atmosphere and lush nature, Yufu is an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Yufu's Hot Springs
morning
:

Start your day with a relaxing soak in one of Yufu's famous onsen, such as Yufuin Onsen, surrounded by picturesque views of the mountains.

afternoon
:

Visit the Yufuin Art Museum, showcasing local artists and traditional crafts, followed by a leisurely stroll through the charming streets filled with shops and cafes.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at a local ryokan, savoring seasonal ingredients while taking in the serene surroundings.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike up Mount Yufu for breathtaking panoramic views; the trail is well-marked and suitable for various skill levels.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic Kinrin Lake, known for its stunning reflections and serene atmosphere, then visit the nearby Yufuin Floral Village, a quaint area with unique shops and gardens.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a stroll through the town, stopping by a local izakaya for some delicious yakitori and local sake.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$20
Coffee in Cafe$5
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🚌Local Bus Fare$2
🏨Night in Ryokan$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and hot springs.
  • Rich cultural experiences and traditional cuisine.
  • Tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Public transportation may require some planning.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "お元気ですか?" - How are you?
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Yufu

Visit one of these nice places.

Mount Yufu

An iconic peak that offers stunning vistas, particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

Kinrin Lake

A picturesque lake famous for its morning mist and surrounding cherry blossoms in spring.

Yufuin Floral Village

A quaint area filled with colorful flowers and charming buildings, providing a perfect backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yufu

Yufu is a culinary delight, known for its fresh, local ingredients and traditional Japanese cuisine that reflects the region's natural bounty.

Yufu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bungo Beef

A premium Wagyu beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor, often served as sashimi or grilled.

Must-Try!

Yufuin Soba

Handmade buckwheat noodles served hot or cold, often accompanied by a flavorful dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yufuin Morning Market

A lively market held every morning, offering fresh produce, homemade snacks, and local crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yufu experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 27°C (81°F). Winters can be cold, dropping to around 1°C (34°F), and snowfall is common. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance and avoid loud conversations in public places.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a traditional ryokan.

Be Polite

Use polite language and gestures, such as bowing when greeting someone or thanking them.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yufu is considered very safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and being cautious in remote areas. Familiarize yourself with emergency contacts and local health facilities in case of any issues.

Tipping in Yufu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may be seen as rude; excellent service is expected as part of the experience.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but many places also accept credit cards; however, smaller shops may only take cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect cherry blossoms in full bloom, particularly around Kinrin Lake, creating a picturesque landscape.

Summer

Warm temperatures and occasional rain; a great time for hiking and outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Enjoy beautiful fall foliage, especially in the surrounding mountains, creating vibrant colors.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall; perfect for enjoying hot springs and winter sports in the nearby areas.

Nightlife Guide

Yufu at Night

Yufu has a tranquil nightlife scene primarily focused on relaxation and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy quiet bars and izakayas that offer local sake and craft beers. Many ryokan provide evening activities for guests, including communal baths and traditional performances. There are also occasional festivals and events that light up the night, showcasing local culture.

Hiking in Yufu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Yufu Trail

A popular hiking route that leads to the summit of Mount Yufu, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a rewarding experience.

Yufuin Valley Trail

A scenic trail that winds through the valley, showcasing beautiful flora and fauna, perfect for a leisurely hike.

Airports

How to reach Yufu by plane.

Oita Airport

Located approximately 60 kilometers from Yufu, Oita Airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yufu is a relatively walkable town, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance of each other. The streets are well-maintained and pedestrian-friendly, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the town. However, some areas, particularly those leading to hiking trails, may be steeper and require more effort.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tourists

Yufu attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly those seeking relaxation and cultural experiences.

Local Residents

The local population consists of families, artisans, and retirees, contributing to the town's charm and community-focused atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams frequently supported by the community.

Football (Soccer)

Football is quite popular, and Yufu has local teams that engage in community events and matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yufu is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by walking or cycling. Public transportation includes local buses that connect Yufu to nearby cities and attractions. However, schedules may vary, so checking ahead is recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yufu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine often features fish, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian diets with prior notice.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, rice dishes and some soba noodles made from 100% buckwheat are available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Yufu are generally good, with local clinics and hospitals available. Emergency services can be contacted via 119, and most medical facilities have staff who can assist English-speaking patients. It's advisable to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide