[Yufuin] Eco-Friendly Touring : Slow Travel by Carriage & E-Mobility

Discover Yufuin’s Landscapes: Slow & Sustainable Touring by Carriage & E-Mobility

After visiting popular tourist spots in Yufuin, such as Yunotsubo Kaido Street and Lake Kinrin, take a step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and embark on a "slow sightseeing tour" to enjoy the tranquil rural scenery itself.

We will introduce you to a sustainable ride experience that is environmentally friendly and will connect this beautiful scenery to the future.

1. Yufuin’s Legacy on Wheels: A Guided Carriage Tour Through History and Prayer

This is a special time guided by the symbol of Yufuin, which has been in operation for half a century since the reconstruction following the 1975 Oita earthquake.

An eco-friendly tradition : With no exhaust fumes, the ride takes you to historic sites like Bussanji Temple and Unagihime Shrine, accompanied by the soothing rhythm of hooves.

A moment to listen to a story : The driver of the carriage is like a storyteller of Yufuin. He will unravel the history and development of Yufuin in a light-hearted manner as he rides his horse. Listening to his story will transform the ordinary scenery into a "landscape with a story."

It's a 50-minute journey rocked by the sounds of tradition. For detailed route maps, how to make reservations, and the latest operating information, please check the Feature Articles page of the official travel guide [YUFUINFO] below.

Official travel guide [YUFUINFO] Touring Yufuin. A relaxing journey on a horse-drawn carriage.

Yufuin Horse Carriage (Tsuji-Basha)

8-5, Yufu City, Yufuin Town, Kawakita, Oita Prefecture, 879-5114

Horse Carriage (Tsuji-Basha) are one of Yufuin's famous tourist experiences, and involve a leisurely tour of the town in a retro carriage pulled by a large horse. The ride takes about 60 minutes, and the driver, who also serves as your guide, will carefully explain the sights to see, such as Bussan-ji Temple, Unagihime Shrine, and the rural landscape. Time passes leisurely as the sound of hooves clatters along, making this a popular activity that allows you to experience Yufuin's nature and history firsthand.

2. Next-Gen Mobility Designed for a "Ride and Walk" Experience

This is a new style of electric mobility that fulfills the desire to "take your time and enjoy the scenery on a rainy day or after a long day of walking."

Sustainable operation : The electric vehicle, "nolc" runs quietly, so it does not pollute Yufuin's clean air and produces minimal noise, making for a smart journey.

A sense of freedom and connection with the scenery : The relaxed speed of less than 20km/h is a comfortable ride that feels like a cross between riding and walking. The open, windowless vehicle allows you to use all five senses to rediscover the charm of the city.

3. Light and Easy Touring by Rental Cycle

If you want to explore the scenery in more depth while enjoying detours at your own pace, renting a bicycle from the tourist information center is the perfect option.

Eco-friendly and free exploration : With zero-emission bicycles, you can freely explore hidden scenic spots that cars cannot reach, such as narrow alleys and riversides. You can find your own unique route.

Yufuin Bike Rentals

Yufu City Tourist Information Center 1F, 8-5 Kawakita, Yufuin-cho , Ka...

The Yufu City Tourist Information Center, located next to JR Yufuin Station, offers bike rentals. Please come directly to the reception counter on the day of rental and apply. Our bike rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Advance reservations and phone reservations are not accepted. ◎Prices City bike: Basic fee: 1,000 yen for 2 hours / Extension fee: 500 yen per hour Cross-bike: Basic fee: 2,000 yen for 2 hours / Extension fee: 1,000 yen per hour Payment must be made in advance (cash or PayPay). Extension fees are paid when you return the bike. Please note that the base fee is for up to 2 hours of use. We do not offer refunds for rentals shorter than the 2 hours base period. ◎How to apply: To rent a bike, please visit the Yufu City Tourist Information Center during business hours. You will need to fill out an application form and show a valid ID (e.g., passport).

Connecting Yufuin’s Beauty to the Future

Rather than rushing to your destination, choose to "take your time" - a sustainable travel option that will connect the tranquility and beautiful nature that this city has cherished to future generations.

Whether it's a traditional horse-drawn carriage, a new generation "nolc", or a nimble bicycle, why not experience the profound charm of Yufuin on a "slow sightseeing tour" that's perfect for you?