On our first day, we set off to Yufuin from Fukuoka International Airport! Instead of driving straight to Yufuin via toll expressway, we opt for no-toll multiple stop over along the way. It took us longer than expected but the journey was fun and we manage to stop by for Cosmo event and witness the stunning view while we were there! Alternatively, you can take a train or bus to Yufuin from Fukuoka.
Read our 12 Days 10 Night Kyushu Self-drive trip here
Transportation to Yufuin from Fukuoka by Train:
With a Japan Rail Pass or Kyushu Rail Pass, embark on a scenic train journey from Fukuoka's Hakata Station to Yufuin, taking approximately 2.5 hours at a cost of 4500 to 5500 yen.
Transportation to Yufuin from Fukuoka by Bus:
Alternatively, a direct highway bus runs hourly between Fukuoka (Hakata Station, Tenjin Bus Center, and Fukuoka Airport) and Yufuin (Yufuin Station). The 2.5-hour trip costs 3250 yen (round trip for 5760 yen) and is covered by the Sun Q Pass, available for purchase online.
How long to spend in Yufuin?
Yufuin is a small town and most attractions can be covered in half a day. However, i highly recommend you to stay a night in a Ryokan and experience the beauty of Yufuin
Places to visit in Yufuin/ One day itinerary in Yufuin
Evening: Stop by Yufuin Road station before entering
Our first stopover was the Yufuin Road Station before entering Yufuin. The road station offers sale of local snacks with a splendid view of Mt. Yufu during good weather! Unfortunately, we arrived quite late and most of the fruits were sold out.
Soak in an Onsen and/or Stay Overnight in a Traditional Ryokan
Then, we drove to our accommodation for the night! There are many traditional ryokans around the area and you can enjoy the baths as a day visitor or stay overnight in a traditional Japanese hotel. We stayed in a traditional Japanese hotel also known as ryokan. One can select half board or full board in these hotel. Highly recommend to try them out! Also, if you have opt for dinner, you need to arrive before 5pm.
Lake Kinrinko
In the morning, head to Lake Kinrinko, a serene crater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the walking paths that circle the lake. The view is particularly enchanting during autumn. Best time to visit around 8 – 9 am before the tourist bus come by!
Yunostubo Street
Yufuin Floral Village
Afterwards, visit Yufuin Floral Village which is minutes walk away. It is a charming area with European-style buildings, Also, one can find owl forest zoo, pet café and cute sovenirs shop.
Yufuin Showa Museum
Lastly, explore the Showa Museum, a fascinating attraction featuring vintage cars, toys, and memorabilia from the Showa era (1926-1989). It's a nostalgic journey back in time. Plus there is a food canteen at level 2 where you can try their canteen food! We didn’t because our ryokan includes breakfast and it was time for lunch!
Parking in Yufuin
One of the main challenge is finding carpark. We park here , near Showa Museum and walk to the street and spend roughly 2 hours there (200 yen / 60 mins) hour)!
Accommodations in Yufuin
Yufuin Baien Garden Resort
We stayed at Yufuin Baien Garden Resort. It is located slightly above the town to the south, and has large, attractive outdoor baths for visitors. The ryokan offer private onsen room for guest who are shy or family too! Although the buildings are dated, the rooms are big and comfortable. Plus, staff are friendly too! On clear days, the twin peaks of Mount Yufu are visible from the baths.
We love the dinner there! But unfortunately, my parents and i don’t take beef. H had to finish additional 4 plates of wagyu (good for him!) Thus, if you have any diet restriction, do inform the ryokan in advance! Breakfast was good too!
Overall, we love our time at Yufuin Baien Garden!
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