Mt. Yufu Hike: Complete Trail Guide for 2026
Mar 30, 2026
Mount Yufu rises dramatically above the hot spring town of Yufuin, its twin volcanic peaks visible from nearly everywhere in the basin below. This 1,583-meter summit offers one of Kyushu's most rewarding day hikes—steep enough to feel like an accomplishment, accessible enough to fit between morning coffee and an evening onsen soak.
This guide covers everything you need to plan your Mt. Yufu hike, from trailhead access and route options to what to pack and where to unwind afterward.
The walk to Mount Yufu's summit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way, covering roughly 4.5 miles round-trip with around 2,500 feet of elevation gain. The surface is rough and steep in places, so the time varies depending on your pace and fitness level.
Most hikers start from Makinoto Pass (牧ノ戸峠), the main trailhead sitting between the hot spring towns of Yufuin and Beppu in Oita Prefecture, home to 5,090 hot spring sources, the most in Japan.
Local buses connect JR Yufuin Station to Makinoto Pass in about 30 minutes. Service runs infrequently, though, and schedules shift with the seasons. Check departure times the day before your hike so you're not stranded waiting.
Driving gives you the most flexibility, particularly if you want an early start. A free parking lot at Makinoto Pass holds several dozen cars, but it fills fast on autumn weekends and holidays. Arriving before 8 a.m. improves your odds of finding a spot.
Both cities work well as bases for a day trip to Mt. Yufu:
From Beppu: Take a direct bus to Makinoto Pass (about 50 minutes), or combine a train to Yufuin with a connecting bus
From Fukuoka: Yufuin is one of the most popular day trips from Fukuoka. Ride the JR Kyushu Main Line limited express to Yufuin Station (around 2 hours), then transfer to the trailhead bus
If you're traveling with a JR Pass, the train portion from Fukuoka is covered, which makes the journey more economical.
Mount Yufu rises to 1,583 meters (5,194 feet) and features twin volcanic peaks connected by a narrow ridge. The East Peak is the higher of the two and follows a steep but straightforward path. The West Peak involves chain-assisted scrambling over exposed rock.
The lower sections wind through forest, while the upper mountain opens to rocky terrain with views of Yufuin Basin below. You don't need technical climbing skills for the East Peak, though good fitness and sturdy boots make a noticeable difference. The trail surface is uneven throughout, with loose rocks on the steeper sections near the summit.
Weather affects your Mt. Yufu experience more than almost anything else. Kyushu's climate brings distinct conditions to each season, and timing your visit well can mean the difference between panoramic views and hiking through thick fog.
Mild temperatures and emerging wildflowers make spring a comfortable window for hiking. Cherry blossoms typically appear in Yufuin town during late March to early April, adding color to your trip before or after the climb. Trails are generally less crowded than in autumn.
Summer brings heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms that can develop quickly. Starting at dawn helps you reach the summit before the hottest part of the day. It also reduces your exposure to sudden weather shifts that tend to arrive in the afternoon.
Autumn draws the largest crowds for good reason. Vibrant fall colors cover the mountainside from late October through mid-November, and clear skies offer the best visibility. Expect company on the trail, especially during weekends when the parking lot fills early.
Snow and ice can blanket the upper sections from December through February. Crampons or traction devices become necessary for safe footing, and the West Peak's chain sections turn genuinely dangerous when icy. Winter hiking here is best suited for experienced mountaineers who know how to read conditions.
The twin-peak structure of Mount Yufu means you'll face a decision partway up. The trail splits at a junction, and from there you can head toward the East Peak, the West Peak, or attempt both.
The East Peak stands at 1,583 meters and follows a steep but non-technical path. Most hikers choose this route because it offers summit views without requiring any climbing experience. The final push is rocky and demanding, yet manageable for anyone in reasonable shape.
The West Peak involves chain-assisted scrambling over exposed rock. In dry conditions, it's an exciting challenge. When wet or icy, however, the chains and rock become slippery, and the exposure feels more serious. Only attempt this route if you're comfortable with heights and have experience on similar terrain.
Strong hikers with extra time can summit both peaks by traversing the connecting ridge. This adds roughly an hour to your day and requires stable weather. The ridge is narrow and exposed, so it's not the place to be when clouds start building.
Leave the Makinoto Pass parking area and follow the well-marked path into the mixed forest. The first 45 minutes to an hour climb steadily through trees, gaining elevation at a moderate pace. Eventually, you'll reach the junction where the East and West Peak trails split.
Turn right for the East Peak. The trail steepens considerably here, with rocky sections that require careful foot placement. After another 45 minutes to an hour of climbing, you'll emerge at the summit. On clear days, you can see Yufuin Basin spread out below, Beppu Bay in the distance, and the mountains of central Kyushu stretching toward the horizon.
From the junction, the West Peak trail heads left along an exposed ridge. Metal chains assist on the steepest sections, bolted into the rock for handholds. Take your time, test each grip before committing your weight, and turn back if conditions feel unsafe.
The descent follows the same route you came up. Watch your footing on loose rocks, especially if your legs are tired from the climb. The return typically takes slightly less time than the ascent, though rushing invites twisted ankles on the uneven terrain.
No facilities exist on the trail, so you'll carry everything you need for the day:
Sturdy hiking boots: Rocky terrain punishes flimsy footwear
Layered clothing: Temperatures drop noticeably at elevation
Rain gear: Sudden showers arrive without much warning, especially in summer
Water and snacks: At least 1.5 liters of water per person
Sun protection: Exposed sections near the summit offer little shade
Trekking poles: Helpful for steep descents and reducing knee strain
Trail map or GPS app: Mobile signal can be unreliable near the summit
Mount Yufu rewards preparation and punishes overconfidence. A few precautions go a long way toward keeping your hike enjoyable.
Check weather before you go: Fog, heavy rain, or storms make the upper sections hazardous and eliminate the views that make the climb worthwhile
Start early: Morning departures give you buffer time and help you avoid afternoon weather shifts
Stay on marked trails: Vegetation can obscure drop-offs, especially near the peaks where the terrain steepens
West Peak chains: Only attempt when dry and if you're genuinely comfortable with exposure
Tell someone your plan: Leave your itinerary with your accommodation or a travel companion
Japanese mountain weather can change rapidly. If clouds start building or you hear thunder in the distance, begin your descent immediately rather than pushing for the summit.
The town of Yufuin sits at the base of Mount Yufu and offers exactly what tired legs want after a long day on the trail.
Yufuin ranks among Japan's most celebrated onsen towns. An onsen is a natural hot spring bath, and soaking in mineral-rich water after hiking feels almost medicinal. With the second-highest hot spring water flow of any onsen town in Japan, many of Yufuin's ryokan (traditional inns) offer day-use bathing for non-guests, so you don't need to stay overnight to enjoy the experience.
This small lake lies within walking distance of Yufuin Station and is known for morning mist rising off the water. A small shrine sits at the water's edge, and the surrounding paths make for a gentle stroll after a demanding hike.
This pedestrian street connects the station to Lake Kinrin and is lined with cafes, bakeries, and craft shops. Stop for Yufuin roll cake, freshly fried croquettes, or local specialty goods. Your post-hike appetite will appreciate the options.
Both Yufuin and Beppu offer convenient accommodation, each with a different character:
Yufuin: Boutique ryokan and guesthouses, many with private onsen baths, within walking distance of town attractions
Beppu: Larger hotel selection with easy access to the famous "hells" hot spring attractions and more nightlife options
Budget option: Guesthouses and hostels in both towns keep costs manageable for travelers, watching their spending
Book ahead during the autumn foliage season. Popular ryokan fill up weeks in advance, and last-minute availability can be limited.
A ropeway carries you partway up Mt. Tsurumi, making this an easier option with impressive views of Beppu's steam vents and coastline. The summit hike from the ropeway station takes about 30 minutes and suits travelers who want mountain scenery without a full-day commitment.
Japan's largest active volcano caldera lies roughly 90 minutes from Yufuin by car. The dramatic landscape and smoking crater offer a completely different hiking experience. For travelers extending their time in Kyushu, Mt. Aso pairs well with Mt. Yufu as part of a broader Kyushu outdoor adventure.
Kyushu—where over 400,000 foreign visitors arrived in a single month in early 2025—rewards travelers who venture beyond the usual Tokyo-Kyoto route, and Mount Yufu makes an excellent centerpiece for exploring the region.
Trip To Japan can help you book accommodations in Yufuin or Beppu, arrange your JR Pass for train travel across Kyushu, and discover tours throughout the area. Explore our Kyushu itineraries or book a free 30-minute consultation with our travel experts to start planning.
