Step into a fairytale! A day trip to Yufuin: Kinrin Lake's misty scenery and a relaxing stroll through Yu-no-tsubo.

Yufuin, a small town nestled among Mount Yufu, often nicknamed "Bungo Fuji," has always captivated travelers with its unique tranquility and European-style fairytale atmosphere. This day trip, from the morning mountain views to the evening hot springs, every moment was a relaxing experience.
1. Gazing at Bungo Fuji from afar, strolling along Yunotsubo Street
Upon exiting the car, the first thing that caught our eyes was the majestic Mount Yufu, its lush green peaks towering majestically against the blue sky and white clouds. Like a giant guarding Yufuin, its beautiful presence is visible from every angle.
We then entered Yuotsubo Street, Yufuin's busiest street. This street is home to a variety of unique shops, souvenir shops, and delicious food. The architecture lining the street exudes an elegant blend of Japanese and Western styles, making for a truly relaxing stroll. 2. A Cute Encounter at a Fairy Tale Village and Kiki's Delivery Service (Yufuin Flower Village & Acorn Forest)
The streets of Yunotsubo were filled with surprises, and we finally found Yufuin Floral Village, brimming with European countryside charm. This small village boasts English-style cottages, charming shops, and an animal interaction area.
• Cute Animal Area: Here, I encountered goats and other small animals (such as the sheep being fed in the third photo and the adorable guinea pigs in the ninth photo). Visitors can interact with them up close and experience the joy of a childlike spirit.
While browsing, we also stumbled upon Acorn Forest, which sells Ghibli merchandise. The shop is filled with merchandise from series like "My Neighbor Totoro" and "Kiki's Delivery Service." I especially spotted merchandise featuring Jiji, the black cat from "Kiki's Delivery Service" (as seen in the sixth photo, with a sign that reads "Kiki's Delivery Service"). 3. The Mystery and Majesty of Lake Kinrin (Kinrin Lake, Tenso Shrine)
Walking down Yunotsubo Kaido, you'll arrive at Yufuin's iconic landmark, Kinrin Lake. The lakeside scenery is picturesque, especially the floating torii gate (shown in the fifth photo), which appears particularly tranquil and mysterious amidst the swaying trees.
• Tenso Shrine: The torii gate belongs to Tenso Shrine, located on the lakeside. Approaching the shrine, you'll see the quaint wooden architecture and the thick shime-nape ropes hanging from the torii gates and in front of the shrine hall. The paper tassels on the ropes flutter in the wind, creating a solemn atmosphere.
4. A Heartwarming Experience of Local Cuisine and Hot Springs
After a morning of wandering, we were hungry and it was time to enjoy some of Yufuin's local delicacies. We chose a restaurant specializing in local cuisine. • Specialty Dish: I ordered a classic kamameshi or earthenware dish (shown in the second photo). Thick slices of seared chashu (or local pork) were spread over rice in a rustic green earthenware pot, accompanied by Japanese side dishes and tamagoyaki. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the rice soaked up the gravy, leaving a lasting impression.
• Open Kitchen: Inside the restaurant's kitchen, the chefs were busy preparing meals. Small earthenware pots lined up on the stovetop, presumably preparing piping hot kamameshi for each guest.
5. Memories of the End of the Trip (Train Station or Shuttle)
Near Yufuin Station, I saw the shuttle staff holding a sign waiting for passengers. This reminded me that the day's journey was drawing to a close.
My day trip to Yufuin ended perfectly, immersing myself in the interplay of nature, fairytales, delicious food, and hot springs. This trip was not only healing but also filled with wonderful memories.

P.S. The kamameshi is "Yufumabushikoro" (Yufu Kamameshikoro), and the one on the roof is Yoshitomo Nara's giant dog, displayed at the Kengo Kuma Museum.
#Yufuin #Yufuin #Yunotsubo Kaido #Yufuin Flower Village #Kinrinko Lake #Tenso Shrine

Post by Smartdoctor | Oct 12, 2025