Lake Kinrin Yufuin
A serene lake known for its mystical morning mist and clear, emerald waters, nestled in the charming hot spring town of Yufuin.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the magical morning mist
Lake Kinrin Yufuin
Best Time
Witness the magical morning mist
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene lake known for its mystical morning mist and clear, emerald waters, nestled in the charming hot spring town of Yufuin.
"Witness the ethereal mist rising from the warm waters at sunrise for a truly magical experience."
🌅 Arrive for Sunrise Magic
Catch the ethereal morning mist over Lake Kinrin for a truly magical experience.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Yufuin is best explored on foot; wear comfy shoes for strolling through town and to the lake.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Kinrin's Morning Mist
Lake Kinrin
Witness ethereal mist rising from the warm waters at sunrise, creating a magical, otherworldly scene.
Crystal-Clear Emerald Waters
Lake Kinrin
Marvel at the lake's stunning clarity, fed by both hot and cold springs, reflecting the surrounding nature.
Autumn Foliage Spectacle
Lake Kinrin and Yufuin
Experience vibrant fall colors with fiery reds, golden yellows, and rich oranges painting the landscape.
Yufuin Floral Village
Yufuin
Wander through charming streets filled with whimsical shops, cafes, and photogenic corners.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Mystical Mornings
Embrace the Walkable Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Arrive for Sunrise Magic
Catch the ethereal morning mist over Lake Kinrin for a truly magical experience. 
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Yufuin is best explored on foot; wear comfy shoes for strolling through town and to the lake.
📸 Capture the Shrine Shot
The iconic shrine in the water is a popular photo spot, but can get crowded.
☕ Cozy Cafe Breaks
Enjoy a coffee with a view at one of Yufuin's charming cafes near the lake.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Arrive for Sunrise Magic
Catch the ethereal morning mist over Lake Kinrin for a truly magical experience.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Yufuin is best explored on foot; wear comfy shoes for strolling through town and to the lake.
📸 Capture the Shrine Shot
The iconic shrine in the water is a popular photo spot, but can get crowded.
☕ Cozy Cafe Breaks
Enjoy a coffee with a view at one of Yufuin's charming cafes near the lake.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Explore unique shops for quirky gifts and local crafts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Kinrin is a beautiful and serene natural spot, particularly enchanting at sunrise with its famous mist. While it can get crowded, especially as part of tour groups, its clear waters and picturesque surroundings offer a peaceful escape. Many visitors find the walk from Yufuin town delightful, with charming shops and cafes adding to the experience.
"This is the main tourist attraction in the area. It’s about a 20min walk from the station straight towards the mountains then a right turn. Some of the cool cafes around the lake are not open on certain days so be careful. It is surprisingly much smaller than expected. There are fish and a small shrine but heavily crowded by tourists groups and visitors. There are tons of shops and food stands along the way. Most of which seem like tourist traps. we tried a couple food stalls and the food was subpar to the pictures on their marketing. Overall it’s fine but nothing amazing since. We had a much better time at our osen 👌"
Charlie Wang
"such a beautiful lake with a beautiful view. the building at the other side of the lake makes it even more amazing. the walk from the station is around 20minutes if you don’t stop for any shops. even though there is bus available, I recommend for you to walk the whole way. Trust me, you won’t regret it. You can’t appreciate the city’s beauty if you spend your time in the bus. There is so many tourists here."
Farahin Zulkifli
"Stay a night if you are aiming for that picturesque morning mist shot.
I highly recommend going around the lake, not only to enjoy the clear waters and the koi fishes swimming near the surface. You can get various angles of the lake, and also get away from the throngs of people.
I "caught" a visitor resting on a ledge above the small stream next to 下ん湯。
The crowd dissipates as I was halfway across the lake and I bumped into less than 5 people upon visiting Tenso Shrine and the public toilet that the signs around the lake directed you to.
Yes, so if your aim was to find the public toilet from the signs, just walk in from the right side."
Alvin Li
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most scenic way is to take the Yufuin no Mori train from Hakata Station in Fukuoka to Yufuin Station. From there, it's a pleasant walk to Lake Kinrin.
Yes, it's a beautiful and relatively short walk, about 20-30 minutes, with many shops and cafes along the way.
While buses and taxis are available, walking is highly recommended to enjoy the town's atmosphere.
Yes, it's a popular day trip destination. However, staying overnight allows for the best chance to see the morning mist.
Walking is the primary and most enjoyable way to explore Yufuin and its attractions like Lake Kinrin.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lake Kinrin itself is a natural attraction and does not have an entrance fee.
Lake Kinrin is accessible at all times, but the best experience is during sunrise for the mist.
Tickets are not required for Lake Kinrin. However, booking the Yufuin no Mori train in advance is highly recommended due to its popularity.
It's best to avoid peak midday hours, especially on weekends and holidays, as it can get very crowded.
Many local tours include Lake Kinrin as part of a broader Kyushu or Yufuin itinerary.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise is ideal for capturing the mystical mist. Golden hour in the late afternoon also offers beautiful light.
The shrine at the southern end, the traditional bridge, and the reflections in the water are popular photo subjects.
Drone usage is generally restricted in natural parks and tourist areas in Japan. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape. A tripod can be useful for low-light sunrise shots.
The 'golden scales' effect, where sunlight hits the water, and the reflections of the surrounding autumn leaves are stunning.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yufuin offers local specialties like grilled eel (unagi), croquettes, and delicious soba noodles.
Yes, several charming cafes are located near the lake, offering great views and local treats.
The streets around Lake Kinrin are lined with shops selling various snacks, including croquettes and sweet treats.
Prices vary, but you can find affordable options like ramen and street food, as well as more upscale dining.
While many dishes feature seafood or meat, you can find options like soba noodles and vegetable-based dishes. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Besides enjoying the lake's beauty, you can explore the nearby Yufuin Floral Village, browse shops, and dine at local restaurants.
A quick visit to see the lake itself might take less than an hour, but exploring the surrounding area can easily fill half a day.
Yes, it's a peaceful and scenic spot that families can enjoy. The floral village also has a whimsical appeal for children.
The unique mix of hot and cold springs creates the ethereal mist, especially visible in the early morning.
It refers to the shimmering effect when sunlight hits the water, named by a scholar centuries ago.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers' Paradise
+1 The iconic shrine in the water, the reflections of autumn leaves, and the clear emerald waters offer endless composition opportunities. +1 While the lake itself is small, the surrounding town and the Yufuin Floral Village provide diverse backdrops for creative shots. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens and a tripod for those early morning or low-light conditions.🚶 Solo Travelers
+1 You can also enjoy local cuisine and browse unique shops without feeling rushed. Consider taking the Yufuin no Mori train for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Morning Mist
+1Experiencing the mist is often described as stepping into a fairytale or a traditional Japanese painting. The quiet solitude of the early morning, combined with the visual poetry of the mist, offers a profound sense of peace and tranquility. While the mist is most prominent in cooler months, its beauty can be appreciated year-round, though it's particularly enchanting during autumn when the vibrant foliage adds another layer of color to the scene.
+1Exploring Yufuin Town
Each establishment often boasts its own distinct theme, from cozy coffee shops with lake views to artisanal craft stores. The town itself is designed for leisurely exploration, encouraging visitors to stroll and discover hidden corners.The journey to Yufuin is also part of the experience. The Yufuin no Mori limited express train from Fukuoka is a highly recommended mode of transport, offering a comfortable and scenic ride that enhances the overall travel adventure.
+1 The combination of natural beauty, charming town life, and unique culinary offerings makes Yufuin a well-rounded destination.The 'Golden Scales' Legend
The legend states that he named it after observing the scales of fish in the lake shimmering like gold when illuminated by the setting sun. This evocative name perfectly captures the lake's enchanting beauty, especially during the golden hours of dawn and dusk. While the morning mist is the most famous phenomenon, the interplay of light on the water throughout the day adds to its allure. +1This historical anecdote adds a layer of mystique to the already picturesque setting. Visitors often seek out the perfect spot to capture this 'golden scales' effect, though the shimmering is most pronounced when the sun's rays directly hit the water. The lake's clear waters, fed by both hot and cold springs, contribute to its unique visual appeal, making it a truly special natural wonder.
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