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Kinrin Lake

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Kinrin Lake

A lake known for its scenic charm and mystical, morning mist.

4.30 26

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Kinrin Lake is one of many popular tourist spots in the hot springs town of Yufuin. The lake sits under Mt. Yufu and as such was called takemoto-no-ike (lit. “lake under the mountain”) for years. However, it was renamed to Kinrin, or “golden scales”, by Mori Kuso in 1884 when he saw the golden glimmering scales of fish as they swam at sunset.

The hot spring waters well up at the lake’s bottom, keeping the waters at a steady, warm temperature all year around. As a result, an almost magical swirl of steam can be seen dancing across the lake surface in the early mornings of winter and fall.

The entire 400-meter perimeter of the lake is set up for easy walking so visitors can enjoy watching the fish and aquatic birds over a stroll. The lake is also home to a Shinto torii gate from the neighboring Tenso Shrine, lending an added air of mystique.
The autumn season, with brightly colored leaves, offers an especially gorgeous backdrop to see and enjoy.

Highlights

  • Morning steam can be seen in the early morning hours of autumn and winter.
  • Famous spot to see the autumn leaves.
  • Don’t forget to visit the Tenso Shrine next door during your visit.

Videos

Photos

  • Kinrin Lake in Autumn

    Kinrin Lake in Autumn

  • The morning mists over Kinrin Lake

    The morning mists over Kinrin Lake

  • The torii gate of Tenso Shrine

    The torii gate of Tenso Shrine

  • Aquatic birds

    Aquatic birds

  • Cafe

    Cafe

  • Sunset

    Sunset

Reviews

26

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人
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    My first encounter with Lake Kinrin was at dusk in the summer. The glow of the setting sun fell across the water, framing the lakeside torii gate. At the time, I simply found it relaxing and had yet to fully appreciate its breathtaking beauty. It wasn't until my second visit, when I specifically chose to stay at a lakeside inn, that the view truly left me in awe. On an autumn morning, I walked from the foot of Mount Yufu to Lake Kinrin in the cool light of dawn.

    In the early morning, warm spring water flows into the chilly lake, and dreamy wisps of mist rise over all of Lake Kinrin. The ethereal mist, the layered slopes of Mount Yufu in the background, and the lake scenery blend together like an unreal ink painting, instantly taking my breath away.

    Travel really is a wonderful process of discovering entirely new scenery each time you return. I'm so glad I was able to ride the Yufuin no Mori train again and return to this hot spring town I could never tire of, keeping the memory of this early-morning-only fairyland in my heart.

  • Eddie
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    Looking at this photo taken at Kinrin Lake in December, I still remember just how cold it was. In the morning, the surface of the lake was covered in thick mist, making the mountains and woods in the distance look a little blurry. It made the whole scene feel very peaceful.

    The small Western-style building across the lake was also hidden in the mist, with only a faint outline visible, giving the entire scene a very distinctive feel. Although it was very cold, seeing the morning mist made getting up early well worth it.

    Seeing the photo now actually makes me miss winter in Japan a little. If I have another chance to visit Yufuin, I think I'll still want to come back to Kinrin Lake and see what it looks like early in the morning.

  • 周黛西
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    Kinrin Lake is a popular spot in Yufuin that almost no visitor misses. Although the lake isn't large, its surface sparkles in the sunlight, and it is surrounded by maple trees. If you visit in the fall, you may see their fiery red reflections on the lake. If you enjoy photography, don't miss the early morning mist, when you may get to see the dreamy, otherworldly sky torii gate!

  • KEIKO
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    Walking along Yunotsubo Shopping Street and browsing the shops, you'll eventually reach Kinrin Lake. When the weather is nice, you can see the lake's shimmering surface, and it really feels like a fairytale world. It's a great place for families, couples, and friends to take photos and make wonderful memories.

  • BobbyJenny
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    Visiting Kinrin Lake in Yufuin, Japan, was one of the most memorable experiences of my trip. Standing by the lake, I saw the clear, calm water reflecting the blue sky, white clouds, and surrounding trees. The scenery was so beautiful and uplifting that I couldn’t resist taking out my camera to capture it.

    As I strolled slowly along the lakeshore, everything was peaceful. All I could hear was the breeze rustling through the treetops and birds singing, which made me appreciate the beauty of nature. Although I didn’t get to see the famous morning mist that appears in fall and winter, the lake and mountain views were still moving. It reminded me that every season has its own unique charm.

    There are also many interesting shops and great places to eat near Kinrin Lake. You can sample local snacks while walking around and enjoy a leisurely visit. This trip not only let me admire the beautiful scenery, but also taught me to slow down and truly appreciate my surroundings. I hope to return to Kinrin Lake someday to experience it in another season. I’m sure it will bring even more wonderful surprises and lasting memories.

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Details

Name in Japanese
金鱗湖
Address
1561-1 Yufuinchokawakami, Yufu City, Oita
Access
20 min. walk from Yufuin Station on the JR Kyudai Main Line
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa