36 Hours in Beppu & Yufuin: Discover Northern Kyushu’s Best Hot Spring Towns
Grill your own seafood by the ocean.
Stand beside steaming red and blue hot springs. Soak in a private onsen with only the
sound of wind in the trees. In just 36 hours, you can take in the raw energy of Beppu and
the peaceful charm of Yufuin—two unforgettable destinations in Japan’s Kyushu region. Start
your trip by the water at a self-serve seafood barbecue. Pick from trays of fresh local
catch—clams, scallops, squid, and shrimp—and grill them over charcoal at your own table. It’s
simple, casual, and packed with flavor. With ocean views and the sound of sizzling seafood, it’s the
perfect way to ease into the pace of Kyushu. Next, visit Beppu’s famous ‘hells’—a series of steaming
hot spring displays formed by volcanic heat. Some are bright blue, others deep red. One
bubbles with grey mud, and a few have geysers that erupt on cue. Umi Jigoku, or ‘Sea Hell,’ is the
most popular—its vibrant blue water sits in a beautiful landscaped garden, making it a mix
of nature and spectacle. Before leaving Beppu, take a short detour into the hills to stop at
Okamotoya. Their signature dish is pudding — egg custard steamed using natural onsen heat. It’s
light, silky, bittersweet and served with a view over the mountains. A quick, satisfying break
before heading inland. From Beppu, it’s about a 45-minute drive through quiet mountain roads
to Yufuin. This small town is known for its ryokans—traditional inns offering multi-course
dinners and onsen baths, perfect for a quiet soak with views of nature. It’s one of the best
ways to experience Japan’s slow travel culture. In the early morning, Yufuin feels like it’s
still asleep. A gentle walk along the river gives you a view of Mount Yufu and quiet streets
with only a few locals around. The air is crisp, and the path is flat—easy to
explore before the day begins. At the far end of town sits Lake Kinrin, warmed
by underground springs. When the morning air is cool, mist drifts across the surface. It’s a
peaceful spot to stop and take in the scenery. By late morning, Yufuin’s main street
comes alive. It’s lined with local shops selling handmade goods, and plenty of snack
stalls offering things like wagyu croquettes, fried chicken, and puddings.
Everything’s within walking distance, so you can take your time and
try whatever catches your eye. In just a day and a half, you can experience
dramatic hot springs, mountaintop meals, and quiet countryside walks. Beppu and
Yufuin are easily reached by train, bus, or rental car—and they make an ideal short trip
from Fukuoka or Oita. If this video helped you plan your next trip, leave a like and subscribe
for more calm, easygoing Japan travel guides.
Looking to slow down and unwind in Japan?
This 36-hour guide to Beppu and Yufuin takes you through Kyushu’s top countryside escapes—famous for natural hot springs, scenic mountain views, and traditional ryokan stays.
You’ll see:
🌊 Grilling seafood by the sea
🔥 Beppu’s dramatic “hells” (jigoku) hot spring sites
🥚 A local egg custard steamed with natural heat
🌿 A peaceful ryokan stay in the hills
🏞️ Lake walks, riverside paths, and Yufuin’s charming food street
Perfect for a weekend getaway from Fukuoka or Oita.
📌 A calm, narrated visual guide to one of Japan’s most relaxing regions.
AloJapan.com