Charming Yufu offers a cozier and more culturally varied spa-town experience than neighboring Beppu. Travel about 14 miles (22 kilometers) inland to discover the atmospheric main street of Yufuin, an old village now merged into the city of Yufu, surrounded by sprawling rice paddies and farmhouses. Visit the town’s cafés and boutiques before savoring the picturesque calm of Yufu’s hot baths and rural landmarks.
Explore Yufuin’s varied cultural activities. Tour the private Sueda Art Gallery, which houses works by the married couple Ryusuke Sueda and Shiori Sueda, two of Japan’s most prominent modernist sculptors. Allow your perception to be challenged by 3-D effects at the Yufuin Trick Art Meikyukan Museum. See works by a favorite American artist at the small Norman Rockwell Yufuin Museum.
Delve into local craft traditions at Yufuin Floral Village, with numerous galleries and shops as well as hands-on workshops in crafts such as glass-blowing, paper-making and indigo-dyeing. See the tranquil Unagihime Shrine nearby.
Natural beauty surrounds Yufu, which is located in a lush river basin ringed with mountains. Enjoy the serenity and misty views at Kinrin Lake, with hot and cold springs. Take a relaxing walk around the grounds of nearby Bussanji Temple. Set out on the 4-mile (7-kilometer) hike to Mount Yufu or use its volcanic peak as a backdrop for memorable photos of the town.
Relax at the hot springs of Yufuin Onsen, which are less developed and crowded than those in Beppu. Follow local etiquette as you enjoy the health benefits of this mineral-rich water in thoroughly scenic surrounds.
Travel to Yufu by train or car from Fukuoka, site of the nearest major airport. Alternatively, take the bus from Beppu, which also stops at the Mount Yufu hiking trail. Most cultural attractions are within easy walking distance, while rickshaws, horse-drawn carriages and rental bicycles are also available. To see more of inland Kyushu’s natural riches, head southwest to the stunning Aso-Kuju National Park.
