Yufuin, Ōita

Yufuin (湯布院町, Yufuin-chō) was a town located in Ōita District, Ōita Prefecture, Japan. Yufuin is now a district () within the city of Yufu. Its elevation is approximately 400 meters above ground.

Yufu-dake (由布岳) is the representative sight of Yufuin
Yufuin panorama

As of 2003, the town had an estimated population of 11,342 and density of 88.77 persons per km². The total area was 127.77 km².

On October 1, 2005, Yufuin, along with the towns of Hasama and Shonai (all from Ōita District), was merged to create the city of Yufu. This controversial decision resulted in the recall of the mayor and a snap election in which he regained office.

Located in a green valley beneath the spectacular Mount Yufu (由布岳), a short walk from the town centre is a mix of paddy fields, housing and upmarket ryokan, with a few temples. Mount Yufu, or Yufu-dake, can be hiked in about 90 minutes.[1] A common evening sound is the rhythmic ringing of temple bells. Although still connected to its rural roots, Yufuin is a tourist town and a popular destination for coach tours. There is a picturesque lake, and rivers flow down and across the valley. Some hotels have outdoor baths called rotenburo with a view of the mountain.

Spa town

Onsen are popular among locals and tourists alike

Yufuin is famous for natural hot spring spas (温泉, Onsen), resulting in a local economy based on domestic tourism, gift shops and hot-spring bathing. Some onsen are available to day tourists, but many are strictly for overnight guests. There are also "sento", which are the traditional public baths used by locals. One of these, the Shitanyu, can be used by tourists, while the others are for use by local residents only.[2] International tourist visits to Yufuin are increasing, especially by Koreans.

Sights & Sounds

Kinrin-ko () lit. "Golden Scale Lake" is a tourist attraction in Yufuin

Yufu Mountain (由布岳) and Golden Scale Lake are commonly viewed and photographed by tourists.

Annual events

Transportation options

Yufuin Station
Yufuin Station sign in hiragana (ゆふいん)

TV drama

See also

References

  1. "Introducing Yufuin". Lonely Planet. Retrieved September 5, 2010.
  2. "Yufuin Travel Guide". japan-guide.com. Retrieved September 5, 2010.

33.263247°N 131.356332°E / 33.263247; 131.356332


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