[Yufuin] Art Walk Guide: From the Station to the Forest Museum

The Must-Go Route: Yufuin Station Art Stroll

When you arrive at JR Yufuin Station, first head to the waiting room. This space, designed by world-renowned architect Arata Isozaki, is both a station and an art hall. Feel the warmth of the wood and enjoy the monthly changing exhibitions for free. It's a relaxing art experience perfect for starting your trip.

Enjoy empty-handed, the first step in exploring Yufuin

Head to the Yufu City Tourist Information Center, located right next to Yufuin Station. This building, designed by architect Shigeru Ban, has a tourist information center on the first floor and a travel library on the second floor, and the space itself is a work of art, making you feel as if you are in the middle of a forest. Before you start your stroll, we recommend leaving your large luggage at Yufuin Chikki and consulting with them about sightseeing routes while looking at a walking map.

Guided by Mt. Yufu: An Art Stroll to Lake Kinrin

With Yufuin Station behind you, head straight towards the majestic Mount Yufu. After a leisurely 10-minute walk, you'll arrive at Yunotsubo Kaido Street. A short distance from Yunotsubo Kaido Street is the COMICO ART MUSEUM YUFUIN, designed by architect Kengo Kuma. After viewing works by some of Japan's leading contemporary artists, stroll along the quiet path alongside the Oita River to Lake Kinrin.

From the Bustling Street to a Quiet Forest Gallery

If you can take a car or taxi, head to Artegio, nestled in the middle of a lush forest. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city center, this contemporary art museum with a music theme sits quietly on a lush hill. Produced by the ryokan (Japanese inn) Sanso Murata, the sophisticated space allows you to soothe your senses with the quiet music and art. Read a book in the museum's reading room, or browse the beautiful array of chocolates in the attached chocolate shop. This hidden art spot will help you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Want to see even more art?

Yufuin is home to many small art museums that blend quietly into nature, as well as unique galleries attached to cafes. For a walking course where you can encounter even more artworks, be sure to check out the Feature Articles article in the official travel guide [YUFUINFO] below. It introduces even more in-depth art spots.

Official Travel Guide [YUFUINFO] Enjoy an artistic moment in Yufuin

Official Travel Guide [YUFUINFO] Enjoy an artistic moment in Yufuin

Dordogne Museum : Located at the bottom of a quiet slope, this is a place where you can encounter artists with Oita to Oita.

ARU FUUKEI : A cafe gallery renovated from the owner's memorable home, where you can find comfort in the miscellaneous goods that add color to your everyday life.

CAFE LA RUCHE : A lakeside bakery cafe where you can enjoy the spectacular view of Lake Kinrin and art at the same time.

Chung Dong Joo Gallery : Works in harmony with the majestic nature in a gallery bathed in soft light.

The more you walk around the town of Yufuin, the more new art you will discover. Why not grab a map and find your own favorite "art detour"? The once-in-a-lifetime encounter you might have at a gallery you happen upon might become one of your best memories of your trip.