【Yufuin Onsen】Sightseeing spots in Oita

Yufuin Onsen is located in the Yufuin Basin, almost in the center of Oita Prefecture, and is designated as a national health resort hot spring area.

Among the hot springs in “Onsen Prefecture Oita,” which boasts the highest number of hot spring sources and volume of spring water in Japan, Yufuin Onsen is said to be the second largest in Japan with approximately 900 sources and has the third largest discharge rate in Japan, with 38,600 liters per minute.

The water quality is mostly classified as simple hot springs or alkaline simple hot springs, but there are also salt springs such as chloride and bicarbonate springs. Simple hot springs have little stimulation and no peculiarities in the water, making them suitable for everyone, from children to the elderly, and even foreigners can bathe with peace of mind.

In addition to hot springs, Yufuin also offers a range of tourist attractions, such as Lake Kinrin and Yunotsubo Kaido, for visitors to enjoy.

Lake Kinrin, located in Yufuin Town, Yufu City, Oita Prefecture, is a small yet stunningly beautiful lake. In the early mornings or on cool autumn days, steam rising from the lake surface creates a mystical atmosphere. The lake is situated close to the Yufuin hot spring area, making it an ideal spot to visit between hot spring baths.

The name Lake Kinrin comes from the hot spring water that wells up from the lake bed, making the scales of the fish in the lake appear golden in the sunlight. The area around the lake is equipped with walking paths, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of each season. The cherry blossoms in spring and the colorful leaves in autumn are particularly captivating.

Around Lake Kinrin, there are stylish cafes, souvenir shops, and art galleries, providing a relaxed atmosphere for visitors to spend their time. With its natural beauty and the local culture and art it offers, Lake Kinrin is a must-visit spot when you’re in Yufuin.

Yufuin Floral Village is a miniature theme park that recreates the scenery of the Cotswolds in England, a location also chosen for filming the “Harry Potter” series. The park, with its English garden-style layout, blooms with colorful flowers in every season, offering a new kind of fun and relaxation that’s a bit different from the traditional image of Yufuin (Yufuin).

Opened in 2012, this British-style mini theme park may not cover a large area, but its charming streetscapes have gained popularity for their cuteness. The park is filled with beautiful blooming flowers, and visitors can enjoy strolling, gourmet dining, and shopping. Located just about 5 minutes by taxi from JR Yufuin Station, it’s a perfect spot to visit on a trip to Yufuin.

Yunotsubo Kaido, located at the foot of Mount Yufu, is a bustling street frequented by many tourists. Along the street, you can find shops selling Oita’s specialty products like Yuzu Goshou, as well as eateries offering local delicacies such as Toriten (chicken tempura).

Just one block off the main street, along the Oita River, is a recommended walking spot where you can enjoy seasonal scenery, peaceful rural landscapes, and the unique charm of Yufuin.

The roads are narrow, so visitors arriving by car are advised to use the paid parking available.

Yunotsubo Kaido is a popular tourist spot bustling with more than 50 souvenir shops and eateries, attracting many tourists every day. Enjoying a stroll and tasting local foods while appreciating the natural beauty of Yufuin is highly recommended!