All Reviews of Yufu Mabushi Shin Kinrin Lake Main Store

Yufuin is especially cold at night in winter. When the cold wind blew, all we wanted was to quickly find a warm restaurant for dinner. Our group decided without hesitation to try the area's famous clay pot rice. Everyone ordered a different flavor, and I especially liked the dish made with local Kyushu chicken. The chicken was tender and flavorful, and it was delicious with the piping-hot rice. The clay pot rice was still steaming when it arrived, and the aroma that rushed out the moment we lifted the lid immediately whetted our appetites. You can first enjoy it as is and savor the aroma of the rice and toppings, then add condiments or broth according to your preference to experience different layers of flavor. Having a piping-hot pot of rice on a cold night felt especially comforting, and it became a warm memory from this trip to Yufuin.

On my first visit, I was completely captivated by the enticing aroma of the clay pot rice and Bungo beef. That unforgettable flavor became my reason for returning to Yufuin. This time, I made a reservation at Yufu Mabushi Shin (Kinrin Lake Main Store), which is farther from the station. Compared with the crowds at the location in front of the station, the dining space here feels much more comfortable.

The restaurant offers several classic varieties of clay pot rice, including Bungo beef, eel, and local chicken, each with its own distinctive flavor. On my second visit, I once again ordered my favorite, the Bungo beef clay pot rice. The moment I lifted the lid, I was greeted by the aroma of rice soaked in rich sauce and the rendered fat of the Bungo beef. It was every bit as wonderful and memorable as I remembered, and I was truly glad I returned to town for this dish I had missed so much.

If you’re a traveler like me who doesn’t enjoy waiting in line, I highly recommend avoiding peak hours. Around sunset, after the day-trippers have left and the town has grown quiet again, take a stroll to the main store by Kinrin Lake for dinner. Not only can you avoid a long wait, but you can also enjoy an incredibly relaxing, leisurely time surrounded by views of the lake and mountains.

I honestly think this place is a bit overrated.

I remember arriving at our guesthouse completely exhausted that day. It was cold and rainy, and the owner seemed to have forgotten our reservation, so we waited in the pouring rain for over 20 minutes before checking in. After dropping off our luggage, we even made a special trip to the location near the station—there are two locations—to eat here.

So many people had recommended it that my expectations were sky-high. I have to admit, the presentation was impressive, and the first couple of bites were pretty tasty.

Usually, after walking a long way when I’m exhausted and starving, anything tastes amazing. But even in that state, this place didn’t make me think, “Wow, this is incredible!” It didn’t bring me back to life, so it’s a no for me.

It’s worth trying once, but I wouldn’t go back.

You can turn it into ochazuke, and it comes with a plate of pickles and several sauces on the side. It’s on the pricey side, although the bowl really is loaded with beef.

Still, it gets more and more heavy and monotonous as you eat. Overall, it just wasn’t to my taste.

Visiting Yufuin and dining at Yufu Mabushi Shin was an unforgettable culinary experience. The restaurant has a warm Japanese ambiance, and the simple, elegant setting feels welcoming. When the steaming clay-pot rice arrived, its irresistible aroma immediately whetted my appetite and reflected the care put into every dish.

The pleasantly chewy rice is cooked with fresh ingredients, allowing each grain to soak up their natural sweetness and savory flavors. Every bite highlights the comforting rice and delicious toppings. It is simple yet memorable. Savoring the meal slowly also offered a wonderful appreciation for the refinement and attention to detail found in Japanese food culture.

The charcoal aroma is super strong, and the texture is really layered when you chew. Not greasy at all! The chicken is so juicy and springy—every bite is packed with flavor. I just couldn’t stop eating.