Yufu
Day Trips
Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Yufu's hidden gems and unique experiences!
Arrive in Yufu, a picturesque town known for its scenic views and hot springs. Take a moment to stroll along the charming streets and feel the relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local inn featuring seasonal ingredients.
Visit the Yufuin Art Museum to admire contemporary Japanese art and installations. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around Lake Kinrin, famous for its foggy mornings and serene beauty. Stop at a local café for coffee and a slice of homemade cake while soaking in the landscape.
Unwind in one of Yufu's many onsen, soaking in the mineral-rich waters under a starlit sky. Enjoy a traditional Kaiseki dinner at your ryokan, experiencing a multi-course meal that showcases seasonal flavors. End the day with a peaceful stroll around the town as lanterns illuminate the path.
Start your day with a visit to the Yufuin Morning Market, where local vendors offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food. Sample some tasty onigiri and freshly squeezed juice while mingling with locals in a vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, see the town's famous thatched-roof houses that add charm to the surroundings.
Discover the Yufu Art Museum, home to a variety of artistic exhibitions that change throughout the year. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, featuring a focus on local dishes. Spend the afternoon exploring boutique shops and art galleries that celebrate the talents of regional artisans.
Savor dinner at a quaint izakaya, tasting local specialties such as Yufuin's famed beef. Take a walk to the picturesque Yufuin delta, where you may catch a glimpse of a sunset painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Consider enjoying another relaxing soak in the hot springs to end the day.
Embark on an outdoor adventure by hiking up Mt. Yufu for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Start early to make the most of the cooler morning air and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature. Pack a light breakfast for sustenance while on your hike, perhaps a bento box filled with traditional Japanese delights.
After descending the mountain, explore the lush Yufuin countryside, taking guided tours that offer deeper insights into the local flora and fauna. Enjoy a picnic lunch with mountain views, surrounded by the serenity of nature. If time allows, visit local farms that offer hands-on experiences such as fruit picking.
Return to Yufu to freshen up before dinner, perhaps with a relaxing soak in an outdoor onsen with views of Mt. Yufu. Enjoy a casual meal at a local udon shop, delighting in handmade noodles served with a variety of broth options. Finish the evening with a cultural experience, such as a traditional dance performance or local music.
Visit the historic Shitan-yu, a traditional public bath that dates back to the Edo period, for a unique cultural experience. Immerse yourself in the rituals of Japanese bathing while enjoying the ambiance of old-world Japan. Follow your bath with a delicious breakfast of yudofu, simmered tofu, at a nearby restaurant.
Explore the Kyushu Yufuin Folk Village, an open-air museum showcasing traditional rural life in the region. Discover various old buildings and artifacts while participating in hands-on workshops, such as pottery or weaving. Grab lunch at the folk village's café offering local delicacies served in a charming atmosphere.
Dine in a traditional teahouse, enjoying a seasonal kaiseki meal as you experience the intricate presentation of each dish. Participate in a tea ceremony, learning about the art of matcha preparation. Wind down with a peace-inducing stroll along the streets lit up by soft paper lanterns.
Spend the morning indulging in a full onsen experience at one of Yufu's renowned ryokans, where you can enjoy various baths featuring different minerals. Make the most of the morning by enjoying a breakfast served in your room, featuring local and fresh ingredients. Afterward, take some time to relax and rejuvenate at the ryokan's facilities.
Visit the nearby Kijima Kogen Park, an amusement park with attractions for all ages, including roller coasters and beautiful gardens. Enjoy a light lunch in the park while taking in the beautifully landscaped surroundings. Spend your afternoon enjoying the various games and rides, creating thrilling memories.
Return to Yufu for a beautifully prepared dinner at your ryokan or a local restaurant, featuring regional ingredients. As night falls, return to an onsen for a final soak under the stars, embracing the tranquility of the evening. Relax in the ryokan’s common area, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Travel to the nearby Taketa to visit the enchanting bamboo forest, where the natural landscape creates a tranquil escape. Take a leisurely walk through the winding paths, listening to the gentle rustle of bamboo leaves overhead. Capture stunning photographs of the towering stalks that seem to touch the sky.
Head to the historic Taisyu-ji Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple known for its serene atmosphere and stunning architecture. Participate in a meditation session led by a local monk, allowing yourself to connect deeper to the peaceful energy around you. Enjoy a simple yet filling lunch at a traditional tea house nearby.
Finish your day back in Yufu with an evening of leisure, perhaps revisiting your favorite onsen one last time. Soak in the therapeutic waters, letting the stresses melt away as you prepare for your departure. Share stories with fellow travelers or locals, reminiscing about the experiences that made your journey memorable.
On your final morning in Yufu, enjoy a relaxed breakfast featuring traditional dishes at your ryokan. Take a last stroll through the vibrant streets, picking up souvenirs to remember your visit. Breathe in the fresh mountain air, allowing yourself to fully embrace the beauty of your surroundings.
Spend your afternoon visiting any last sites or shops that caught your eye, ensuring that you don’t miss out on any Yufu treasures. If time permits, enjoy a final onsen experience to leave Yufu feeling rejuvenated. Prepare for your journey home, reflecting on memories made over the past days.
Head to the train station or bus terminal, filled with a sense of contentment and nostalgia as you leave this beautiful town. As you depart Yufu, keep the warm memories and serene experiences close to your heart, promising to return one day. Share your journey with others through social media or conversations, spreading the joys of Yufu.