[Yufuin] Yunohira Onsen: A Hidden Gem of Red Lanterns and Ancient Stone Paths

A 30-minute time travel from Yufuin: Step into cinematic Yunohira Onsen

"Love Yufuin? Discover the quiet magic of Yunohira." This is where seasoned travelers are quietly headed next: Yunohira Onsen, a hidden village of 300-year-old stone paths and glowing red lanterns.

Just a 30-minute drive from the bustle of Yufuin, you'll find a place in the mountains that stands out from the glamorous tourist spots, "A hidden sanctuary where you can truly embrace the silence." The noise of everyday life disappears, and you can enjoy a private time with only the sounds of the river and your own footsteps echoing.

"300 Years of Stone Paving": A Prayer Comes to Life

The symbol of Yunohira is the stone-paved slope that has continued since the Edo period.

In fact, this road was laid stone by stone about 300 years ago by local stonemasons, praying for people's happiness and good health. When you realize that this is not just an old road, but a place where someone's wishes are embedded, you will feel a mysterious calm in your heart with every step you take.

Day and night, your camera won't stop clicking

Depending on the time of day, Yunohira changes its appearance dramatically.

[Daytime] Nostalgia of light and greenery : The cobblestone streets illuminated by sunlight are so beautiful they seem like they've jumped out of a history textbook. This town, where time passes slowly, is an ideal location where you can take photos until you're satisfied without being rushed by crowds.

[Night] Red lanterns invite you into a mysterious world of stories : When the approximately 300 red lanterns are lit at dusk, the place takes on an otherworldly atmosphere. The vermilion light floating in the darkness and the dull glow cast by the wet cobblestones create an overwhelming sense of immersion, as if you've wandered into a scene from a movie, and you'll be left speechless.

Favorite spots to add color to your walks around town

Ishidatami-no-Eki Tsuruya : A stylish tourist hub renovated from a traditional Japanese inn. It houses a tourist information center, rest area, and souvenir shop, and also serves as an exhibition space in conjunction with an art project. A relaxing experience, in the Yunohira style, is to relax with a cup of Yunohiran Ice Cream, a healthy seasonal ice cream made by hand by the innkeepers using locally grown vegetables and fruits.

Public bath "Gin no Yu" : A genuine hot spring experience that goes beyond just looking good. Come enjoy the "Yunohira Hot Springs, where mind and body are balanced," a hot spring resort that has been visited by many visitors from all over the country since the Kamakura period 800 years ago. Entering this retro public bath requires inserting money into the payment box, allowing you to immerse yourself in the "ultimate local atmosphere" that you can't experience in your everyday life. (Bath fee: Adults/middle school students and above 300 yen, Children 100 yen as of March 2026)

A view too good to share: Own the moment in Yunohira

Just a short drive from Yufuin you can encounter a tranquil place steeped in 300 years of history. Time passes more slowly here than at more famous spots, so it is now quietly popular with people who want to take their time to photograph the quintessential Japanese scenery without being disturbed by anyone.

Why not take a special photo just for you here?

[Rainy days are the best photo opportunities] In fact, Yunohira is even more picturesque on a rainy day. The damp cobblestones act as a natural mirror (reflection), reflecting the light of the red lanterns in a sparkling manner. The sight of people walking with umbrellas is like a scene from a fairy tale. You won't think, "It's a shame it's raining," but rather, you'll be so immersed in the experience that you'll want to go on a rainy day.

[Can I get there without a car?] If you're staying at a lodging in Yunohira, many will provide transportation to and from JR Yunohira Station. Even if you prefer to travel by train, we recommend staying at Yunohira Onsen and experiencing this magical night.

JR Yunohira Station

〒879-5111 Shimoyuhira, Yufuin-cho, Yufu City, Oita Prefecture

This is JR Yunohira Station on the Kyudai Main Line. It is an unmanned station, but there is a small gallery inside the station building, and on platform 2 there is the "Tora-san Memories Waiting Room," where the bench used in the movie "Otoko wa Tsurai yo" still remains. The bench is a hidden tourist spot known as the "Marriage Bench."

Check out the official travel guide for more details!

At Yunohira Onsen, you can escape the crowds and enjoy a view all to yourself. Check out the official travel guide [YUFUINFO] for itinerary and recommended shops for Yufuin and Yunohira.

Grab your camera and head out to start your own special story.

Official Travel Guide [YUFUINFO] To the undiscovered Yufu~Plan.5 Yufuin-Yunohira Trip: Experience Nostalgic Scenery and Local Blessings~

Official travel guide [YUFUINFO] The vestiges of a historic hot spring resort. A stone-paved town nestled in the lush greenery and the sound of the river.