Yufu(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Yufu City, the top choice for a traditional onsen experience is Tōno Hana Ryokan, a boutique inn nestled in the heart of Yufuin Onsen Village. It features private outdoor baths overlooking bamboo groves and mountain views, along with kaiseki dining using local ingredients. Another excellent option is Yufu-in Villa Hotel, offering spacious tatami rooms, natural hot spring water, and access to forest trails. Both properties embody the essence of Kyushu’s quiet elegance and provide authentic Japanese hospitality.

Yufuin Onsen Village is the most ideal area for first-time visitors to Yufu City. Located just steps from Yufuin Station, this charming district blends preserved wooden architecture with modern cafes and artisan shops. The cobblestone streets wind past tea houses, bookstores, and handmade pottery studios, creating a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of old Japan. Its central location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions like Yufuin Flower Fields and Mount Yufu, while enjoying a peaceful, low-key pace of life.

The hot springs of Yufu City are renowned for their mild alkaline carbonated mineral water, known for soothing skin and relieving muscle fatigue. What sets them apart is the integration of nature into bath design—many ryokans feature private open-air baths surrounded by bamboo forests or facing Mount Yufu. Some even offer forest bathing onsen experiences, where guests soak while immersed in nature sounds. Locals regard these waters not just as therapeutic but as part of a spiritual tradition, reflecting deep Kyushu cultural values toward harmony with nature.

Tourists should try the Yufuin pottery workshop, where you can craft your own traditional ceramic bowl under local artisans’ guidance. Another must-try is the Onsen Tea Ceremony at Tōno Hana Ryokan, held in a serene garden setting with matcha and wagashi made from regional ingredients. During spring, visit the Yufuin Flower Fields during the Hanami Festival, celebrating cherry blossoms with folk dances and local food stalls—perfect for experiencing Japanese seasonal reverence through community traditions.

Must-try dishes in Yufu City include Yufuin Curry Rice, a rich, spiced curry made with locally sourced herbs and served with a soft-boiled egg and fresh vegetables. Another highlight is Oita Eel Sushi, grilled over charcoal and placed atop vinegared rice—tender and savory. Don’t miss Yufuin Red Bean Mochi, a delicate sweet made with handcrafted glutinous rice and sweet red bean paste, often enjoyed at historic townhouse cafés. These culinary delights showcase the region’s emphasis on seasonal ingredients and craftsmanship.

Yufuin Family Spa Hotel is the top-rated family-friendly accommodation in Yufu City. It offers child-sized onsen pools, a game room, and hands-on workshops like nature scavenger hunts and pottery making. Rooms come with connecting suites and complimentary baby cots. Weekly events such as forest storytelling sessions and onsen farm tours engage kids while teaching them about local ecology. Located near Yufuin Children’s Museum, it ensures safety and convenience for multi-generational travel.

At night, explore the Yufuin Lantern Path, where paper lanterns glow softly along stone alleys, casting dreamy shadows. For a memorable moment, join a midnight onsen tour at Tōno Hana Ryokan, soaking under starlit skies with views of Mount Yufu. Some hotels also host moon-viewing tea ceremonies, where guests enjoy sake and wagashi in tranquil gardens. These experiences capture the quiet beauty of Japanese night culture in a serene mountain setting.

Arrive via bus from Oita Airport or Hakata Station, taking about 1 hour. Once in Yufuin, use the Yufu City Tourist Bus or rent bicycles for easy access to major sites. For remote areas, pre-book local taxi tours—many ryokans offer free pickup services. The entire Yufuin Onsen Village is pedestrian-friendly, with no need for cars. This makes low-carbon travel simple and enjoyable, allowing visitors to focus on relaxation and discovery.

Photographers will love the Yufuin Ginkgo Avenue in autumn, where golden leaves create a tunnel-like effect. The Tōno Hana Ryokan’s Zen garden, with its raked gravel and bamboo reflections, offers stunning minimalist shots. Capture early morning mist above Mount Yufu from scenic overlooks. Don’t miss the paper lanterns in townhouses at dusk—perfect for moody, intimate compositions. During the Yufuin Fireworks Festival, photograph dazzling displays reflected in the river, showcasing Japan’s seasonal artistry in motion.

Visit during the Yufuin Hanami Festival (May), when flower-lined streets burst with azaleas and lanterns, accompanied by traditional dances and local markets. In September, the Yufuin Onsen Festival features purification rituals, historic shop reopenings, and craft fairs. Winter brings the Snow Yufuin Event, where snow-covered paths light up with lanterns and guests enjoy warm ginger tea and onsen soaks. These events reflect the deep community spirit and seasonal awareness of Kyushu’s rural culture.