[Yufuin] Best Time is Now! A Scenic Spring Walk Through Yufuin’s Iconic Cherry Blossoms

A Promenade of Pink and Gold: A Luxury Spring Walk in Yufuin

The soft pink cherry blossoms that herald the arrival of spring in Yufuin, contrasted with the vibrant canola flower that adorn the ground, create a stunning contrast. Here's a recommended walking route to explore the cherry blossom-lined streets, which are currently in full bloom.

Even if you miss the cherry blossoms this year, please use this as a reference for your trip to Yufuin next year.

Cherry blossoms and canola flower along the Oita River as of April 3, 2026

1. Turn Right from the Station: Anticipation Leads the Way to Oita River

The journey begins at JR Yufuin Station. Instead of heading straight down the main street in front of the station, take a leisurely stroll along the road to the right as soon as you exit the station. After walking for about 10 minutes, enjoying the pleasant breeze, the view will suddenly open up, and you'll see the Miyuki Bridge spanning the Oita River.

This is the first scenic viewpoint. Along the river, canola flower and cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and if the weather is good, you can admire the majestic figure of Mt. Yufu standing in the background. If you want to capture the best shot that includes all of this in one frame, don't forget to have your camera ready.

Cherry blossom trees as seen from Miyukibashi Bridge

2. Stunning Views at Jōbashi Bridge: The Perfect Spot for Cherry Blossoms and Mt. Yufu

From Miyukibashi Bridge, you can leisurely stroll along the cherry tree-lined riverbank towards Mt. Yufu. As you walk along, listening to the gentle murmur of the river, you will reach Jōbashi Bridge, where it intersects with Sangūdōri Street.

This is another scenic spot. The delicate cherry blossoms blooming on the triangular sandbar in the Oita River, the rising steam from the hot springs beyond, and the majestic figure of Mt. Yufu seen through the blossoms are a special reward that only those who have walked this far can enjoy. Take a deep breath here and fill your lungs with the pure air of Yufuin.

Cherry blossoms on the delta as seen from Jōbashi Bridge

3. Pick Your Destination: Choosing Between Lake Kinrin and the Historic Shrine

Once you reach Jōbashi Bridge, the path splits into two. We'll guide you to the final destination that best suits your preferences, whether you're a first-time visitor to Yufuin, a repeat visitor, or someone who wants to avoid crowds.

For First-Time Visitors: The Iconic Lake Kinrin Route

From Jōbashi Bridge, continue straight along the riverbank path on the right for about 20 minutes, and you'll arrive at Lake Kinrin (Kinrinko), the symbol of Yufuin. There are also Japanese-modern style shops and cafes in the surrounding area, so there's no shortage of things to enjoy stopping by during your stroll.

Escaping the Crowds: A Peaceful Stroll to the Ancient Shrine

Turn right at Jōbashi Bridge and take a leisurely 15-minute stroll along Sangūdōri Street, enjoying the unobstructed rural scenery. At the end of the street stands the Unagihime Shrine, which has protected this land since ancient times. This shrine is recommended for those who want to spend a peaceful time in a historically significant setting.

Ready to Explore? Essential Guides for Your Cherry Blossom Walk

Springtime Yufuin is full of scenery that can only be discovered by walking. Choosing which path to take next, guided by your intuition, is one of the joys of travel. Whichever path you choose, cherry blossoms, canola flower, and Mt. Yufu in the distance will gently watch over you.

The official travel guide, [YUFUINFO], offers a downloadable " Yufuin Walking Map ." Check out the walking routes in advance and set out to discover your own unique "spring."

English maps are also available at the Yufu City Tourist Information Center, located right next to Yufuin Station. Please feel free to stop by before you start your walk.

Official Travel Guide [YUFUINFO] Yufuin Town Walking Map

Yufu City Tourist Information Center

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

Next to JR Yufuin Station is the Yufu City Tourist Information Center, a tourist information center with a view of Mount Yufu . The space, surrounded by arched wooden pillars and flooded with natural light through a large atrium, was designed by architect Shigeru Ban. As a tourist information center that anyone can easily drop by, it provides tourist information not only about Yufu City but also about Oita Prefecture Prefecture and beyond. The spacious first floor has a tourist information counter and "Yufuin Chikki," which offers luggage storage and delivery to hotels. Through the large glass windows, you can also see the Yufuin no Mori Express and the Seven Stars Cruise Train passing through Yufuin Station. On the second floor, which can be reached by climbing a gentle slope, there is the "Travel Library," which displays around 1,500 travel-related books, and the "Observation Deck," where you can enjoy a close-up view of Mount Yufu while feeling the breeze outside. Services offered: ・Horse Carriage (March - December) ・Bike Rentals ・Green Slow Mobility (nolc) ・Tourism and accommodation information ・Tourist taxi ・Rental: Strollers (Babycars), wheelchairs ・Coin lockers ・Baggage Storage & Delivery (Yufuin Chikki)