Photo of Yufuin

About Yufuin

A lovely hot spring resort town in Kyushu's Oita Prefecture, Yufuin is hugely popular with Japanese travellers, as well as with guests from further afield. Accommodation options tend to be intimate traditional ryokans, some of which offer larger rooms for families and friends to share. See our pick of the best places to stay in Yufuin for inviting spots in the heart of town as well as more tranquil hideaways in the nearby hills — almost all have rejuvenating onsen baths.

Just 10 kilometres inland from Beppu, Yufuin sits on a flat river basin. The most iconic of the forested mountains which surround it — Mount Yufu — is both a striking local landmark and a wonderful challenge for keen hikers. Strolls and cycle rides through the rice paddy fields and around picturesque Lake Kirinko, on the edge of town, also come highly recommended.

Yufuin’s town centre, lined with museums, cafes and boutiques, is well worth a wander. The big draw for most visitors, however, are Yufuin’s hot springs. Sink into the restorative waters of the Shitanyu Public Baths, or retreat to the private baths at one of the best places to stay in Yufuin to truly relax.

The Best Places to Stay in Yufuin

For a Central Stay

  • Yufuin Onsen Hinoharu Ryokan is close to the heart of town. Great for on-foot explorations, it's a classic ryokan with authentic Japanese rooms and flavoursome kaiseki cuisine. Some rooms have private baths. The gardens are a restful surprise given the central location.

For a Traditional Hideaway

  • Yufuin Gettouan Ryokan sits amidst picturesque woodland, just north of Yufuin. The 10 traditional rooms have tatami mat floors and low dining tables. Highlights include the onsen baths, the delicious regional fare and the forest views — particularly striking in the autumn months. A restful choice.
  • Yufuin Kaze No Mori offers splendid mountain views from its hillside location. Classic rooms are comfortable, and onsen baths invite long soaks. A lovely rural retreat.
  • Yufuin Hoteiya is just outside Yufuin, but feels wonderfully quiet. Perfect for those dreaming of an authentic ryokan experience, the hotel has tatami mats, paper shutters, and private hot spring baths. Lantern-lit evenings are gorgeous, and the seasonal menu of local dishes is fantastic. For quiet couples or individuals.
  • Yufuin Sanso Waremokou has steaming outdoor hot spring baths with mountain views, and a terrific seasonal menu — including blowfish and a wide range of sakes. Rooms feature tatami mats, paper shutters and futon beds.

For a Design Hotel

  • Yufuin Rikka has just six luxurious rooms and suites. The hotel fuses classic Japanese style with modern minimalism to create more contemporary spaces. Expect crisp white sheets, ergonomic chairs, small balconies and wood-clad walls. Add the gourmet cuisine and onsen baths, and you're in for a romantic treat.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY HOUSE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Oita Airport, an hour by bus or car from the Yufuin area. Speak to your hotel about arranging an airport pick-up in advance.
  • Kyushu is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn for the warmest weather, with temperatures of 22 - 30°C. Come during the winter to enjoy the magic of the hot springs.

STILL NOT SURE?

Best Hotels in Yufuin

  • KAI Yufuin Yufuin 45 rooms from $197

    Total relaxation  -  From meditation to traditional Japanese crafting, Kai Yufuin is tailored towards your relaxation
    Contemporary  -  Minimalist decor, with sleek bathrooms, modern furnishings and neutral colours
    Country Escape  -  A gorgeous rural hideaway nestled between Mt Yufu and paddy fields
    Restaurant  -  Offers a cultured, traditional Japanese dining experience featuring local game and vegetables
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantPet friendlyParking

    A peaceful haven overlooking beautiful terraced rice fields, with rejuvenating hot springs and inspiring spa treatments. Luxury rooms provide an intimate, minimalist taste of Japanese culture with nature-inspired designs and earthy colours, and there's delicious kaiseki cuisine. Superb! See More

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  • Yufuin Onsen Hinoharu Ryokan Yufuin (Yufu) 11 rooms from $382

    Local exploring  -  Set near the centre of town, this spot offers the ideal balance of proximity to attractions and quiet seclusion
    Total relaxation  -  Unwind in a hot spring bath or with a soothing massage and feast on fabulous fresh food
    Museums  -  The Yufuin Trickart Meikyukan Museum is moments away & well worth visiting
    Cycling  -  Follow a network of cycling trails through the town and surrounding hills
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A chic boutique property set in tranquil surroundings. Beautifully designed Japanese rooms feature paper shutters and lanterns, roll-down futon beds and polished wooden floors. The best have indulgent baths. Delicately prepared Kaiseki dishes are on offer and the staff are friendly and attentive. See More

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  • Yufuin Kaze No Mori Yufuin (Yufu) from $401

    Country Escape  -  A rural property set in lush gardens overlooking Yufuin, this is a restful escape for birdwatchers
    Romantic Break  -  A lovely choice for quiet couples who will appreciate the garden views and cosy guestrooms
    Great walks  -  Explore the walking trails around scenic Lake Kinriko, accessible directly from the hotel
    Museums  -  View the eclectic collection at the Yufuin Retro Museum
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A boutique property set atop a hill with a great vantage of the scenic mountain surroundings. Japanese-style rooms with private sitting areas and onsen baths offer a comfortable and authentic experience. With a multitude of outdoor pursuits in the area, this is the perfect rural escape. See More

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  • Yufuin Hoteiya Yufuin (Yufu-shi) 14 rooms from $452

    Total relaxation  -  Choose a private annex with a hot spring bath to experience the tranquil magic of the Yufuin thermal region
    Great walks  -  Scenic strolls around Lake Kinrin are particularly special in the early morning
    Hideaway  -  A tranquil rural hideaway close to Mount Yufu, perfect or a relaxed break
    Trekking  -  Hike up Mount Yufu, following trails which begin close to the property
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A traditional property located in the picturesque Yufuin area. Japanese style rooms feature tatami mats, paper shutters and lanterns. The best boast private outdoor hot spring baths. Spend evenings feasting on regional cuisine after a day spent in the great outdoors. A rejuvenating stay. See More

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  • Yufuin Sanso Waremokou Yufuin (Yufu) 5 rooms from $460

    Museums  -  The Yufuin Motorcycle Museum is less than 2 kilometres away, and makes for a great afternoon out
    Total relaxation  -  With stunning mountain views and a number of hot spring baths this is a very relaxing stay.
    Families  -  Families will appreciate the two-bedroom suites and flexible futon options
    Great walks  -  Stroll along the walking paths surrounding scenic Kinrinko Lake
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    A boutique property boasting stunning mountain views. Steaming outdoor hot spring baths take advantage of the picturesque setting. Traditionally styled rooms feature tatami mats, paper shutters and futon beds. Find an exemplary seasonal menu (including blowfish) and a selection of sake. Superb. See More

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  • Yadoya Ohashi Yufuin (Kyushu) 14 rooms from $487

    Sights nearby  -  Dive into the rejuvenating waters of Yufuin Hot Spring, known for its therapeutic properties and breathtaking views of Mt Yufu
    Back to Nature  -  Immerse in the enchanting beauty of Yufuin's gardens, stroll, feed the salmon, & make wishes with mystical Omoishi papers
    Foodies  -  Discover culinary bliss at Restaurant Hito Iro, with seasonal delicacies and succulent meats from their own butcher shop
    Romantic Break  -  Intimate spaces tailored for couples to indulge in, including private rooms with open-air baths and indoor baths
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenViewsParking

    This haven offers a sensory journey like no other with traditional buildings nestled amid the tranquil Yufuin landscape. Indulge in private open-air baths, savour exquisite Wagyu cuisine, and unwind in a cosy lobby by the wood stove. It's time to make unforgettable memories in this exclusive oasis. See More

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  • Yufuin Gettouan Ryokan Yufuin (Yufu) 18 rooms from $520

    Romantic Break  -  Couples will love hiding away in private villas with open-air baths, garden views and a real sense of tranquility
    Museums  -  Delve into the region's history and traditional art at the Kyushu Yufuin Folk Craft Village
    Trekking  -  Hike to the top of Mount Yufukade and for epic views of Kyushu Island
    Total relaxation  -  Set in picturesque gardens and complete with healing hot spring baths
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenParkingNo pets

    A small boutique hotel located amidst picturesque woods. Traditional rooms feature tatami mat floors. Low level dining tables and large windows that frame the views. Indulgent regional meals are served and tea ceremonies are also on offer. A charming stay ideal for totally unwinding. See More

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  • Kutsurogi No Yado Nanakawa Yufuin 5 rooms from $530

    Total relaxation  -  A small boutique property hidden within pretty gardens and boasting a number of healing hot spring baths
    Hideaway  -  Escape to your laid-back maisonette and unwind in the onsen, delicious cuisine and restful garden views
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll around nearby Lake Kinrin, famous for the beauty of the morning mists on the water
    Museums  -  Take a trip to the Yufuin Folk Craft Village to see artefacts from the Edo period
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A charming boutique property located near scenic Lake Kinrin. Japanese-style maisonettes feature paper shutters, tatami mat floors, low level dining tables & private open-air hot spring baths. Experience traditional ryokan cuisine in the compound. An authentic stay for quiet travellers & romantics. See More

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  • Yufuin Rikka Yufuin (Yufu) 6 rooms from $487

    Foodies  -  This hotel offers a unique menu of contemporary, fusion cuisine, great for travellers looking to sample modern Asian gastronomy
    Romantic Break  -  The modern suites at this hotel are great for a romantic break, offering a blend of Japanese style and Western comforts
    Local exploring  -  This hotel is perfectly placed for sightseeing in and around Yufu, with parking available for guests onsite
    Sights nearby  -  Spend a morning at the Ogosha Shrine, a little-visited shrine close to the hotel which is over 1000 years old
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    This hotel is a charming 'ryokan' or Japanese-style inn. Set in Yufu, an area renowned for its hot springs, the hotel offers contemporary guestrooms featuring sit-out terraces with open-air baths. Guests love the food at this hotel, a fusion menu of Western and Japanese cuisine. See More

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