JR Yufuin Station, opened on July 29 1925, serves as the primary transportation hub for Yufuin Onsen, one of Japan’s most refined and atmospheric hot spring towns. More than a simple railway stop, the station is carefully designed to act as a ceremonial “arrival space,” easing visitors into Yufuin’s slower pace and artistic spirit.

The current station building was rebuilt in 1990 by world-renowned architect Arata Isozaki, a Pritzker Prize laureate. Its defining feature is the 12-meter-high wooden concourse, intentionally aligned to frame Mount Yufu (Yufu-dake) directly ahead. As visitors exit the station, the twin-peaked mountain appears like a living landscape painting, establishing an immediate emotional connection to the town.

Inside, the waiting room doubles as a small gallery space, hosting rotating contemporary art exhibitions that reflect Yufuin’s long-standing relationship with creativity and cultural life. On Platform 1, travelers can enjoy a natural hot spring footbath (ashiyu). While a valid rail ticket grants access, non-passengers may enter by purchasing a station entry ticket (Nyūjōken) for approximately ¥160–¥200, often including a small commemorative postcard or towel.

Just outside the station is Yufuin’s well-known Baggage Delivery Service (Chi-ki-ko). Visitors can leave their luggage upon arrival, and it will be delivered directly to their ryokan or hotel by the afternoon for a modest fee (approximately ¥600–¥1,000 per bag). This service allows guests to explore the town freely and comfortably from the moment they arrive.

• From Hakata (Fukuoka): Take the Limited Express Yufuin-no-Mori or Limited Express Yufu on the Kyūdai Main Line (approximately 2–2.5 hours).

• From Oita City: JR Kyūdai Main Line trains reach Yufuin in about 1 hour.

• By Highway Bus: The Yufuin Highway Bus Terminal is located directly across the street from the station (less than a 1-minute walk), with direct services from Fukuoka Airport, Tenjin, and Beppu, including the popular “Yufuin-go” bus.

• Use the baggage delivery service to enjoy Yufuin without carrying luggage.

• For photography, pause at the station exit to capture the perfectly framed view of Mount Yufu, especially on clear mornings.

• Visit B-Speak Roll Cake early; their famous P-Roll often sells out by noon.

• The station entry ticket is worth buying even if you are not boarding a train, as it allows access to the footbath and platform views.

Admission Fee:

• Station Entry Ticket (Nyūjōken): ¥170 (standard JR Kyushu platform entry)

• Footbath (Ashiyu) Ticket:

  • Adults: ¥200

  • Children: ¥100

What’s Included:

The ¥200 footbath ticket includes platform entry, a commemorative postcard, and a small hand towel for drying your feet.

Opening Time: 

• Ticket Office (Midori no Madoguchi): 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

• Ticket Machines: Approximately 5:20 AM – 11:00 PM

• Footbath (Ashiyu):

  • Generally 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  • May close earlier (around 5:00 PM) during winter months

• Tourist Information Center: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM