Yufuin is one of Japan’s most famous onsen towns, but tucked a short walk from the station is something you don’t expect in Kyushu: a small village designed to look like the old European countryside, complete with cobblestone streets, colourful flowers and fairy-tale cottages, all sitting at the base of Mount Yufu.
Walking through Yufuin Floral Village feels like stepping into a storybook. Each alley has its own character, with small themed shops and whimsical details everywhere you look, no surprise it’s a favourite with families and photographers chasing its playful backdrops.
The highlight of our visit was the Owl Sanctuary, where we saw several species of owls up close in a quiet, intimate setting. Owls hold a special place in Japanese culture as symbols of wisdom and good fortune, and meeting them in the middle of this storybook village somehow fits perfectly.
The village is small, but it leaves a strong impression, a place where design and setting come together into something genuinely memorable, with Mount Yufu looming scenic in the background. We filmed it the way we always do: no commentary, no food obsession, just the real atmosphere. If you’re planning a Kyushu itinerary, Yufuin is easy to reach by train or bus, and don’t leave without seeing how we got there: the ride in is one of Japan’s most scenic train journeys.
There’s more from this trip on our YouTube channel, we film the real sights and sounds, no fluff. You’ll also find us on TikTok and Instagram.