When mist creates a cloud over the surface of the warm water, Kinrin Lake seems like a portal to another world, suffused with a potent magic. Fed by a volcanic spring at its base and other springs whose cooler streams pour in, the lake stays warm year round with the same geothermal energy that feeds the onsen baths throughout Yufuin. Knowing how it works doesn’t make it any less magical in early morning, when the contrast between hot water and cold air creates the lake’s signature fog. Start the day here to be full of the relaxing energy that makes Yufuin such a popular destination.
Arrive at the lake after walking along Yufuin’s sometimes hectic main street. Once surrounded by the abundant greenery growing along the lake’s shores, it seems that all of the world’s hustle is far away, despite the businesses surrounding the water.
Notice fish thriving in the lake, their mouths peeking out from below the water. Their presence is what gave the lake its name, “Kinrin,” which means “Golden Fish Scale.”
At sunset, notice how the golden light brings out similar colors in the bodies of the glittering fish.
Walk slowly on the trails skirting the water. Stop occasionally for tea or a meal in the teahouses and restaurants hugging the lake’s edge. Complete the experience in the public bathhouse whose windows look onto the water. This is a perfect vantage point to see Tenso Shrine’s torii gate seeming to float on the water’s surface.
Kinrin Lake lies at the opposite end of Yufuin’s main street from the district’s JR train station. Walk to the lake in 20 minutes from the station, drive in about 7 minutes or bike in 10 minutes. Rickshaws are available for hire from the train station. Especially during autumn’s peak tourist season, parking can be extremely difficult to find. Trails surrounding the lake are always open, but not well lit at night.
Attractions around the lake have varying hours, so check online. Visit as early as possible to see the famous mist and avoid crowds gathering here as day trippers from Fukuoka and surrounding areas arrive.
