Hotels in Yufuin Onsen

Serenity Awaits: Unwind in Yufuin Onsen’s Natural Beauty and Cultural Treasures

Nestled in Oita Prefecture, Yufuin Onsen is a charming hot spring town that beckons travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Surrounded by majestic mountains, this picturesque destination is just a short distance from the bustling city of Beppu. Wander through lush gardens, soak in rejuvenating onsens like Yunohira, and explore local museums that celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage. The serene Yufuin Lake offers breathtaking views, while quaint shops and cafes line the streets, inviting you to savor local delicacies. Yufuin is the perfect getaway for those yearning for a peaceful retreat infused with Japanese charm. For the best hotel rates in Yufuin Onsen, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Yufuin Onsen

Yufuin Onsen offers a unique blend of natural beauty and traditional Japanese culture, making it a perfect getaway. Kijima Kogen Park is great for adventure seekers, featuring amusement rides and stunning views, while Yunohira Hot Spring is ideal for relaxation with its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings. Accommodations in both locations range from cozy pensions to luxurious ryokans, providing an authentic experience. For first-time visitors, Yunohira Hot Spring offers a more serene introduction to Yufuin's renowned onsens. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Yufuin Onsen:

1. Near Kijima Kogen ParkOpens in a new window: This area is ideal for families and those seeking entertainment, with a focus on outdoor activities and natural beauty. Kijima Kogen Park offers various attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. For accommodations, Kijima Kogen HotelOpens in a new window is a comfortable 3.5-star hotel located within a mile of the park, featuring indoor and outdoor public onsens, making it perfect for hot spring enthusiasts. Beppu YuyaOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, provides a cozy atmosphere and essential amenities for travelers seeking a family-friendly experience. There's also BEPPU KaizanOpens in a new window, another 3.5-star ryokan that emphasizes relaxation with its outdoor public onsen, making it suitable for those wanting to unwind after a day of exploration.
2. Near Yunohira Hot SpringOpens in a new window: Known for wellness and relaxation, this area offers a serene escape with beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of hot springs, making it a rejuvenating destination. Guest House KotohiraOpens in a new window is a budget-friendly 2.5-star guesthouse that features outdoor and indoor public onsens, perfect for a restorative experience. KayausagiOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star ryokan, provides a tranquil setting with its onsite hot springs, ideal for guests looking to immerse themselves in relaxation. Finally, Hotel Route-Inn Hita EkimaeOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star hotel with dining options and entertainment amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay for those seeking convenience and comfort while exploring the area.

Things to do in Yufuin Onsen for first time

Yufuin Onsen offers a serene escape for travelers, surrounded by lush mountains and tranquil gardens. With opportunities for relaxing hot spring baths, scenic biking routes, and vibrant festivals, this charming town invites you to immerse yourself in nature and rejuvenate your spirit over three delightful days. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Yufuin Onsen:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Hells of Beppu, a fascinating collection of hot springs that showcase unique geothermal activity. Spend some time exploring the colorful pools, each with its own distinct characteristics. Next, head to Hachiman Kamado Shrine, where you can admire the traditional architecture and serene atmosphere. This shrine is known for its enchanting views and spiritual significance. Conclude your day at the Blood Pond Hell Hot Springs, famous for its vibrant red color due to iron oxide. Take in the surreal beauty of this natural wonder as the steam rises, creating a mystical ambiance.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Kijima Kogen Park, where you can enjoy thrilling amusement rides and beautiful landscapes. Afterward, make your way to Beppu Tower for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Spend some time at B-Con Plaza, a hub for exhibitions and events, where you can learn more about Beppu's culture. Wrap up your day at the Global Tower, another great vantage point to soak in the sights of Beppu and its breathtaking coastline.
• Day 3: Start your morning at Yunohira Hot Spring, known for its relaxing and therapeutic waters. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings as you soak in the natural beauty. Then, visit Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan, offering stunning views of the valley below. Finally, unwind at Takegawara Onsen, a historic hot spring where you can experience a traditional Japanese onsen bath, making it a perfect way to end your trip with relaxation and rejuvenation.

5 tips to find a great Yufuin Onsen hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Yufuin Onsen is during January, February, and June, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For international travelers, it's advisable to book flights at least two months in advance to secure the best prices. A stay of at least 1-2 days is perfect for discovering the area’s great value attractions, which include relaxing hot springs, picturesque gardens, and scenic mountains. This destination offers a wonderful experience without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Yufuin Onsen, Hotels.com offers a great opportunity to snag discounted hotel rates just before your trip. To explore these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find enticing prices on nearby accommodations. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, so you’re more likely to take advantage of savings. Plus, Hotels.com often provides a price guarantee, ensuring you're getting the best deal possible.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Yufuin Onsen.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, think about your location. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable rates, consider looking for hotels in neighborhoods that are less central, weighing the cost against the ease of getting to the places you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Yufuin Onsen and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

What to eat in Yufuin Onsen

Here are some must-try dishes in Yufuin Onsen, Yufu, Oita Prefecture, Japan:

• Ramen: In Yufuin Onsen, you can savor a unique take on this beloved Japanese noodle soup. Locally sourced ingredients, such as fresh vegetables and rich broth, create a comforting bowl that highlights the region's flavors. Many ramen shops offer a chance to customize your order, allowing you to select toppings like tender pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg, making each experience personal.
• Tempura: This dish features lightly battered and fried vegetables and seafood, served with a dipping sauce. In Yufuin, you’ll find tempura made with seasonal ingredients, showcasing the freshest produce available. Enjoying tempura in a traditional setting, often accompanied by a Japanese breakfast, enhances the culinary experience, allowing you to appreciate the art of preparation and presentation.

Best time to go to Yufuin Onsen

Yufuin Onsen experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 39.0°F (3.9°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 77.9°F (25.5°C). June tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Yufuin Onsen are January, April, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, June, July, and September are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by moderate to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.