Lake Kinrin (Kinrin-ko)

Located at the foot of Mt. Yufu, Lake Kinrin is one of Yufuin’s most iconic landmarks. Fresh water and hot springs flow into the lake, keeping the water temperature high throughout the year. This creates a beautiful phenomenon of steam rising from the surface on chilly mornings from late autumn to winter. Its name was given by a Confucian scholar who spotted the golden scales of a fish shimmering in the water at sunset. A scenic 400-meter walking path circles the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy views of fish and waterfowl up close. It is about a 20-minute walk from Yufuin Station.