Yunohira Onsen

Flow of the course

About this spot

This historic hot-spring town lies quietly in a valley along the Kagano River, south of Yufuin. Its signature feature is the stone-paved slope running through the heart of the town. Wooden inns and shops line both sides of the steep stone paving, said to have been laid in the Edo period, and the sight of red lanterns swaying in the breeze has a nostalgic charm, as if you'd stepped back in time. The town once thrived as a hot-spring cure resort and is also known as a place visited by the haiku poet Santoka Taneda. Public bathhouses are dotted along the slope, and strolling wrapped in rising steam and the murmur of the river carries a rich, gentle atmosphere. Time flows differently here, in a quiet, unpretentious hot-spring town quite unlike the more glamorous Yufuin.

Tips

The stone-paved slope is quite steep, so non-slip, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Take extra care right after rain, when the stones become slippery. The streets of the hot-spring town are narrow, so it's safer to park in a lot near the entrance and explore on foot. Walking up and down the slope works up more of a sweat than you'd expect, so bring something to drink.

Best time to visit

About 1 hour. In the afternoon, when soft light falls on the stone paving, the lanterns and rising steam take on an especially charming atmosphere.

Access & map

879-5112 Oita Prefecture, Yufu City, Yufuin-cho Yunohira, Yunohira Onsen