Stroll Through a Retro Hot Spring Town with Inns Along Stone-Paved Slopes
About this spot
A historic hot spring town nestled quietly in a valley south of Yufuin, along the Hanago River. Its signature is the stone-paved slope running through the heart of the spring town. On either side of the steep stone path, said to date back to the Edo period, wooden inns and shops line the streets, with red lanterns swaying to create a nostalgic scene as if stepping back in time. Once thriving as a hot spring resort, it is also known as a place visited by the haiku poet Santoka Taneda. Shared bathhouses dot the slope, and strolling through while enveloped in steaming hot spring mist and the murmur of the stream offers an atmosphere rich with emotion. Unlike the vibrant Yufuin, this is a quiet, unpretentious hot spring town where time flows gently.
Tips
The stone-paved slope is quite steep, so non-slip, comfortable walking shoes are essential. The stones become slippery after rain, so exercise extra caution. The narrow spring town streets make it best to park near the entrance and walk through. The climb and descent can cause unexpected sweating, so carry water.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 1 hour. The soft afternoon light filtering onto the stone paths enhances the charm of the lanterns and hot spring steam.
Access & map
Yuhira, Yufuin Town, Yufu, Oita 〒879-5112
Model course featuring this spot
Beppu and Yufuin: Tsurumi-dake Ropeway and Shikotaka Lake Highland Scenic Drive
Oita
Explore features & model courses
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