Oita > Lake Kinrin (金鱗湖): The Misty Lake Tourists Haven’t Claimed
※Description:
In the heart of Yufuin, Oita Prefecture, Lake Kinrin (金鱗湖) sparkles as a jewel of natural beauty, its warm waters fed by hot springs creating a magical morning mist. This serene lake draws visitors “especially Chinese tour groups” for its postcard-perfect views, but arrive before 9 AM to have it nearly to yourself, watching steam rise from the surface “a fleeting, ethereal sight”. Framed by trees and mountains, it’s a must-see, though its popularity tempers its calm.
A Brief History of Lake Kinrin
Named in 1884 by Confucian scholar Mori Kuso, Lake Kinrin (金鱗湖) got its name from fish scales glinting like gold in the sunset “kinrin” means “golden scales”. Fed by natural hot springs, the lake has long been a symbol of Yufuin’s geothermal charm, with its shores hosting small temples and a tranquil walking path that’s been cherished for centuries.
Exploring the Lake and Surroundings
A visit to Lake Kinrin (金鱗湖) is best early in the morning, before 9 AM, when the lake’s hot spring waters release steam into the cool air “a mystical haze over calm ripples”. Walk the scenic trail around its edges, spotting fish and waterfowl, or pause at a lakeside café for a quiet moment. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer lush greenery, autumn vivid reds, and winter a misty chill, making it stunning year-round. While tourists flock later in the day, the early hours offer solitude.
Nearby Attractions
Yufu-dake (由布岳): A twin-peaked mountain offering rewarding hikes with panoramic views.
Beppu Jigoku Meguri (べっぷ地獄めぐり): A tour of Beppu’s colorful, steaming “hell” hot springs.
Usa Jingu (宇佐神宮): Japan’s head Hachiman shrine, rich in spiritual heritage (learn more).
※NTRanking: 6.0 / 10
Lake Kinrin (金鱗湖) is breathtaking, with its misty mornings and vibrant seasons, but its fame pulls in tourists “notably Chinese groups” by mid-morning. Early visits before 9 AM reward with near-empty shores, but the daytime bustle keeps it from a higher score for solitude seekers.
※How to Get There:
How to Get There
・From Oita City (approximately 1 hour):
Take the JR Kyudai Main Line from Oita Station (大分駅) to Yufuin Station (由布院駅), which takes about 50 minutes.
Walk 15 minutes from Yufuin Station to the lake.
・From Beppu (approximately 30 minutes):
Take the JR Kyudai Main Line from Beppu Station (別府駅) to Yufuin Station (由布院駅), which takes about 25 minutes.
Walk 15 minutes from Yufuin Station to the lake.
・From Fukuoka (approximately 2 hours):
Take the JR Yufuin no Mori Express from Hakata Station (博多駅) to Yufuin Station (由布院駅), which takes about 2 hours.
Walk 15 minutes from Yufuin Station to the lake.
※Address:
1561-1 Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Oita 879-5102
