Things to do in Yufuin and Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi

Located inland west of Beppu (Kyushu, Japan), both Yufuin and Kokonoe are highland districts that offer plenty of varied and interesting sights for visitors. Join us while we explore the top things to do in Yufuin and Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi!

Date visited: Nov-2023

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Things to do in Yufuin and Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi

(listed in random order)

#1: Yufuin 湯布院 (town) (Google Map)

Located at the foot of Mount Yufu and a mere 40 minutes drive from Beppu, Yufuin is one of the most popular highland hot spring towns in Japan. Approximately 400m above sea level, Yufuin is photogenically blessed with the charming Mount Yufu serving as the backdrop from most parts of the town.

Other than the numerous ryokans (many with hot spring baths) dotting the lovely town, the main street in Yufuin is filled with cafes, boutiques and various retail outlets.

Though a joy to stroll, the town can get rather congested, especially during peak periods.

The main street in Yufuin is filled with cafes, boutiques and various retail outlets.

Sights around Yufuin main street 湯布院 (Things to do in Yufuin and Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi)

Junior school themed restaurant along Yufuin main street 湯布院

Kinrin Lake 金鱗湖 is situated at the end of Yufuin main street and sits at the base of Mount Yufu

Hotel situated along the shore of Kinrin Lake 金鱗湖, Yufuin (Things to do in Yufuin and Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi)

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#2: Aso-Kuju National Park Sagiridai Overlook 狭霧台 (Google Map)

Situated on the slopes of Mount Yufu, this small roadside viewing terrace offers a panoramic view of Yufuin town and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Aso-Kuju National Park Sagiridai Overlook 狭霧台 offers a panoramic view of Yufuin town and the surrounding mountain ranges.

#3: Tengu Waterfall 天狗の滝 (Google Map)

A mere 3-minute drive from Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi, Tengu is a small waterfall located a stone’s throw from the road. Most visitors stop here for a quick meal in the eye-catching roadside restaurant that comes with ample parking and a souvenir shop, without realising the waterfall next to it.

Eye-catching roadside restaurant at Tengu Waterfall 天狗の滝

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#4: Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi 九重“夢”大吊橋 (Google Map) (End)

“Yume” translates to “dream”, while “otsuribashi” translates to “suspension bridge”. Opened in Oct-2006, Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi is the biggest crowd-puller in Kokonoe district. 390m long and 173m above the valley, it is the highest pedestrian suspension bridge in Japan and offers breathtaking views of the gorge and nearby waterfalls.