Kinrin Lake | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

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Kinrin Lake

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

18 Sep 2026 See More

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.

Other Reviews by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

Yufudake

Located northeast of one of Japan's premier hot spring resorts, Yufuin Onsen, Yufudake stands at an elevation of 1,583 meters. This twin-peaked active volcano is known for its sheer majestic grandeur and often referred to as the "Mt. Fuji of Bungo”. Legeng here traces back to ancient times when the peak was revered as sacred mountain, appearing in texts as early as the "Bungo Fudoki" and Japan's oldest poetry collection, the "Manyoshu”.
- Oita
- Nature Spots
18 Sep 2026 See More

As soon as you step out of Yufuin Station, the magnificent Mt. Yufu comes into view. As you stroll along the lively Yunotsubo Street toward Lake Kinrin, this beautiful volcano remains quietly in the distance, as if gently guiding the way.

I especially recommend visiting this town in the fall, when the cool weather makes walking around particularly pleasant. If you want to capture a clean, refreshing street scene with Mt. Yufu and no bustling crowds of tourists, I suggest heading to the area in front of the station early in the morning for a shot with a different kind of charm. By the way, the classic logo on Milch's famous pudding sold aboard the Yufuin no Mori train was inspired by Mt. Yufu, so don't forget to try it if you get the chance.
Yufuin Onsen

Yufuin Onsen is a hot spring resort at the foot of Mt. Yufu at the heart of Oita Prefecture. There is no big hotel and many inns are tranquil Japanese style, which are popular among women visitors.
- Oita
- Hot Springs & Hot Spring Resorts
18 Sep 2026 See More

I've always felt that the best way to really get to know a hot spring town is to stay overnight. Yufuin Onsen is known as a dream hot spring town for working women in Japan, and I've visited twice to experience its charm for myself.

The first time, I stayed at the old-house guesthouse “Yufuin Lamp no Yado” near the train station. The most satisfying part was the selection of reservable private family baths, where you could enjoy an uninterrupted soak. The second time, I chose “Yufuin Shuhokan” by Lake Kinrin and enjoyed the wonderful lake and mountain scenery. The two completely different stays and hot spring experiences perfectly showcased Yufuin's dual charm—warm and rustic, yet surrounded by magnificent mountains. It makes you want to return again and again and savor the memories.
Yufu Mabushi Shin Kinrin Lake Main Store

This restaurant offers three types of "Yufu Mabushi," a dish that explores the unique ways of enjoying rice in Yufuin. Served in clay pots, the dishes feature Bungo beef, local Yufu chicken, and eel, each accompanied by appetizers, pickles, condiments, and red miso soup.
- Oita
- Japanese Cuisine
18 Sep 2026 See More

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.