A Perfect Day in Yufuin: Exploring Japan’s Picturesque Town

Nestled in the mountains of Oita Prefecture, Yufuin is a charming town known for its breathtaking scenery, quaint streets, and rich cultural attractions. If you have just one day to explore, Yufuin offers the perfect combination of nature, culture, and delicious local treats. Here’s how to make the most of a day trip to this beautiful destination. How to Get to Yufuin from Hakata Station The easiest and most scenic way to reach Yufuin from Hakata Station in Fukuoka is by train. Take the Yufuin no Mori, a special limited express train designed for tourists, which offers comfortable seating and panoramic views of the countryside. The journey takes approximately 2 hours 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the Limited Express Sonic to Beppu and transfer to a local train to Yufuin, which takes around 2.5 hours. For budget travelers, a highway bus from Hakata Bus Terminal to Yufuin is also available, taking about 2 hours 15 minutes. The bus offers a convenient and direct option without transfers. Morning: Arriving and Exploring Yunotsubo Street Start your journey early and take a scenic train (Yufu or Yufuin no mori) from Hakata Station to Yufuin Station. From there, walk towards Yunotsubo Kaido, the town’s bustling main street lined with unique shops, cafes, and local delicacies. Take your time strolling through the charming streets, stopping to sample famous Yufuin pudding, freshly made matcha sweets, and local cheese products. Don’t forget to browse handcrafted souvenirs and specialty goods unique to Yufuin. Midday: Enjoying Kinrin Lake At the end of Yunotsubo Street, you’ll find the picturesque Kinrin Lake, one of Yufuin’s most famous landmarks. The lake is surrounded by beautiful trees and small shrines, creating a tranquil atmosphere. On colder mornings, you may see mist rising from the lake’s surface, adding to its mystical charm. Grab a coffee from a lakeside café and take a peaceful stroll around the area. Afternoon: Visiting Yufuin Floral Village and Museums Instead of an onsen visit, explore the Yufuin Floral Village, a small yet charming European-style village filled with fairytale-like cottages, specialty shops, and adorable animal encounters. The village is a great place to take photos, enjoy a light snack, or shop for unique souvenirs. For art lovers, Yufuin is home to several small museums, such as the Yufuin Stained Glass Museum and Marc Chagall Yufuin Kinrin-ko Museum, where you can appreciate beautiful art collections in a peaceful setting. Evening: A Scenic Walk Before Departure Before heading back, take a final walk around the town to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. If time permits, stop by Artegio, a unique art museum and café that combines fine art with delicious desserts. As the sun sets, the views of Mount Yufu create a picturesque ending to a wonderful day. Useful Tips for a One-Day Trip to Yufuin 1. Arrive early – The town gets crowded later in the day, so arriving in the morning allows for a more relaxed e #yufuinnomori #kyushutrip #japantrip #kirinlake #kyushu #yufuin #japan #trip