Travelers visiting Kyushu can have very different itineraries—some focus on shopping in Fukuoka, while others prefer a more relaxed trip. There are generally two ways to explore Yufuin: one is a one-day trip, returning the same day, and the other is to stay overnight in Yufuin. Traveling from Fukuoka takes quite some time, so a same-day round trip can feel rushed. Plus, the hot spring ryokans in Yufuin are very comfortable, making an overnight stay a better choice. In Yufuin, there are two must-visit spots: Yunotsubo Street and Kinrin Lake!
Yunotsubo Street may not have the trendy shops found on the streets of Osaka or Tokyo, but it’s a traditional Japanese pedestrian path—a kind of traditional charm you won’t find in urban areas like Tokyo, offering a different travel experience in Japan. The shops along the street offer not only food but also shopping options~
The Yufuin Showa-kan showcases many relics from Japan’s Showa era, with recreations of classrooms, streets, and clinics, allowing you to experience life during the Showa period.
Yufuin Neko Yashiki is a shop entirely dedicated to cat-themed goods, ranging from daily necessities to clothes and bags—cat lovers are sure to break the bank here!
I heard this Milch cheesecake is super delicious, but we arrived too late; it had just closed, so we didn’t get to try it~ Note this place down, we definitely have to come back again when we have the chance!!
Keep walking and you’ll find this small garden, which houses a Fish Spa where you can dip your feet in and let the little fish nibble away the dead skin. “Sounds a bit gross, but it’s actually quite nice,” some people say, and others seem to enjoy it too.
I really wanted some ice cream, but it was past five and they were closed!!! (Seriously, you’ve got to plan your timing well!!!) There’s also the European-style Yufuin Floral Village, a quaint little hamlet that’s a bit different from typical Japanese aesthetics, but still worth a stroll~
We happened to catch a beautiful and soothing sunset.
It’s about a 15-minute walk from Yunotsubo Street to Kinrin Lake, where the natural scenery is as stunning and picturesque as a painting. The tranquility of the water surface calms the mind. The setting sunlight hitting the lake is so comforting!
We caught some backlighting, which added even more atmosphere!!
Even the kids embraced nature—trying to interact with the ducks in the pond.
I saw online that some people said Kinrin Lake is just a lake, nothing special; and Yunotsubo Street isn’t much to look at either. Well, I think everyone has different feelings about every spot. I won’t deny others’ feelings or opinions. Whether something is worth it is always subjective—perceptions vary. But Kinrin Lake gave me a sense of peace and serenity, very healing~ Taking in the beauty of nature while traveling is also a kind of enjoyment. Truly feeling it is what matters most.
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