Yufuin Onsen | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人

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.

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.

As you take a leisurely stroll around Lake Kinrin, you definitely shouldn't miss Tenso Shrine by the lake. Follow the path to the water's edge, and you'll see the mysterious stone torii gate standing quietly in the lake. From this angle, the torii and the shimmering water create a perfect composition that looks good in every photo. Standing in this spiritually charged spot, quietly take in the peace brought by the breeze and the lake, and let your body and mind completely unwind amid this stunning scenery.