24 hours in Japan

The mountain village on Kyushu Island, Ghibli inspired

Ultimately, Yufuin is famous for:

• The Floral Village, Ghibli inspired
• Lake Kiniriko
• Specialty stores such as the Miffy Bakery and Snoopy store

Walking route based on this itinerary > https://maps.app.goo.gl/LrV8XKxUv2S9y5YeA

How to Get to Yufuin

By Train

• Duration: 80 minutes
• Cost: ¥1,130
• Covered by: Japan Rail Pass, Kyushu Rail Pass
  Train travel between Beppu and Yufuin requires a transfer at Oita Station. The journey takes about 80 minutes and is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Kyushu Rail Pass.

By Bus (Kyushu Odan Bus)

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Cost: ¥1,100

Covered by: Sun Q Pass
The Kyushu Odan Bus operates between Beppu and Kumamoto, stopping at Yufuin along the way. The one-way journey takes about an hour and is covered by the Sun Q Pass. Online reservations are available through Willer or Japan Bus Online.

Proposed itinerary:

10:00 AM – Arrival at Lake Kinrin

Start your day by stepping off the bus at Lake Kinrin, a dreamy lake surrounded by cute houses and lush greenery. This spot already gives off strong Ghibli vibes, with its tranquil waters and peaceful atmosphere. The lake is located at the end of the town’s main walking route, about 1.5 kilometers from Yufuin Station. Take your time to stroll around the lake, visit the small shrine at its southern end, and explore the nearby shops and cafes.

11:00 AM – Yufuin Floral Village

Next, head to Yufuin Floral Village, a small, themed area designed to look like a Ghibli-inspired village. While I found it a bit too touristy and crowded, it’s still worth a quick visit. Walk around the cute houses, take some photos, and check out the Ghibli-themed shops. There are also some animals you can feed for a few yen. The village is quite small, so 30 minutes should be enough to explore.

12:00 PM – Yufuin Station & Main Street

After the Floral Village, make your way to Yufuin Station and the main street. This area is bustling with tourists but offers plenty of snack options. Try the giant Takoyaki balls, fried chicken, or cheese corn dogs—typical touristy treats! There’s also a cute cat-themed store that’s worth a peek. This is a great spot to grab lunch, as there are many restaurants and cafes offering local dishes.

1:30 PM – Calming stroll along the Oita River

If the crowds start to feel overwhelming, take a break and head to the Oita River for a peaceful walk. This is where the true Ghibli vibes really kicked in for me. The scenery is breathtaking, with mountains and meadows in the background, and there are hardly any tourists here. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Yufuin. I recommend walking from the end of the main street upwards to the river (see the Google Maps route at the end of this blog for details).

If you’re an onsen fan, Yufuin has two excellent bathhouses I recommend where you can unwind:

Tsuka no Ma

Overnight Stay: From ¥12,000 per person (no meals)
Located on a hillside, Tsuka no Ma offers large, gender-separated outdoor baths with blueish water, which is unusual for Yufuin. The views of the town below are stunning.

Daytime Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM (entry until 6:00 PM), closed Tue & Wed

Daytime Admission: ¥800

Musoen

Overnight Stay: From ¥30,000 per person (includes two meals)
Musoen is known for its incredible views of Mount Yufu from its outdoor baths. The ryokan is located slightly above the town and has large, attractive baths and beautiful grounds.

Daytime Hours: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM (entry until 2:00 PM)

Daytime Admission: ¥1,000

5:00 PM – Head Back

After a refreshing onsen and a relaxing day, it’s time to head back. Make sure to check the bus and train schedules in advance, as services don’t run frequently, and the last bus to Beppu leaves quite early.

Walking route based on this itinerary > https://maps.app.goo.gl/LrV8XKxUv2S9y5YeA

” Yufuin is beautiful visit but not only for the Floral Village, be sure to visit the Onsen and Oita River as well!”