Konnichiwa from Kyushu Island! ❤
During my recent trip to Fukuoka, I am so glad that I manage to include Yufuin and Beppu into my itinerary because these two famous hot spring towns in Japan's Oita Prefecture offer a unique mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and relaxation.
It is great to set Hakata as the base, and make a one-day trip to Yufuin and Beppu via JR using the Northern Kyushu Rail Pass (I got a 5-day pass for JPY 15,000). The journey is around 2 hours one way.
For a more immersive experience, pre-booking the Yufu no Mori limited express train is a fantastic idea. This scenic train ride offers an immersive experience, taking me through the lush forests, fields, and small villages, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Travel tips: Be sure to pre-book it earlier (30 days in advance) as this ticket is highly sought after.
Yufu no Mori - Souvenir on board
I manage to grab a seat on this beautiful train that is known for its elegant design and panoramic windows, enjoying the stunning landscapes of Oita Prefecture throughout the journey. The ambiance on board adds to the immersion, bringing me excitement for a peaceful day in Yufuin.
Arrival in Yufuin ❤
Upon arrival at JR Yufu, I am greeted with Yufuin Main Street which features a picturesque backdrop of Mount Yufu. The serene atmosphere and beautiful countryside set the tone for the day.
The town's charming, tree-lined main street, Yunotsubo Street, is filled with boutique shops, cafes, art galleries, and small local eateries. Take a leisurely stroll through the area, enjoying the views of Mount Yufu.
Yufuin Floral Village
For a unique experience, head to this quaint British-style village, featuring gardens, cottages, and small shops. It feels like a European escape in the heart of Japan.
Lunch at Cafe La Ruche
Then I stumble upon this beautiful quaint cafe overlooking the crystal blue Kinrin Lake. The feeling of enjoying my mushroom toast with the picturesque lake view amidst the bright sunshine on a warm autumn day feels so surreal.
Lake Kinrin (金鱗湖), a place of natural scenic beauty representative of Yufuin.
If you have extra time to spare, enjoy a relaxing soak in one of the local onsens. Many ryokan (traditional inns) and public bathhouses offer hot spring baths with stunning views of the mountains.
Lovely mountainous view along the way towards Beppu highland ❤
After lunch, I take a bus up to Beppu mountainous region. Instead of visiting the Beppu Hells (Jigoku), a cluster of unique and colorful hot springs, I have taken a different route to take the Beppu Highland Ropeway which is a scenic way to enjoy breathtaking views of Beppu and the surrounding mountains.
Beppu Highland Ropeway costs JPY 1,800 (two-way) per ticket.
The ropeway takes visitors to the top of Mount Takasaki, where I can enjoy sweeping views of the city, the Beppu Bay, and even the surrounding islands. It is an incredible experience especially during the autumn season, offering a different perspective of the natural beauty of the region.
Look at the gigantic thermometer indicating zero degree Celsius during the day.
To my surprise, it is snowing at the top of the mountain!
I then take a short hike up to the top of the Mount Tsurumi for the scenic view. This marks my first ever snow experience and I am elated to be able to see such mystical scene during autumn (early December).
The view is beyond words - so surreal! ❤
One of the "Seven Lucky Gods" - Daikokuten, the Japanese deity of wealth, fortune, and commerce
immersing myself into the beauty of nature and allow the beauty overwhelms me.
Finally I return to the Beppu Kogen station at an altitude of 500 meters, for a quick souvenir shopping before heading back to the train station to catch the last train of the day back to Hakata Station.
Depending on your schedule, you may consider putting a night to unwind at one of Beppu's hot spring resorts, perhaps indulging in a private onsen experience. Some resorts offer baths with views of the ocean or mountains, perfect for a peaceful end to the day.
Verdict:
A one-day trip to Yufuin and Beppu is a delightful blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and cultural discovery. You’ll enjoy the calming rural atmosphere of Yufuin with its scenic streets and hot springs, then transition to Beppu’s lively onsen culture and striking hot spring attractions. The entire experience is both rejuvenating and enriching, offering a perfect escape into Japan’s famous thermal spa towns.
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Thank you Yufuin and Beppu for the great memories!
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