Mount Yufu (Yufu-dake)

Overview

Mount Yufu is an active volcano located in Yufu City, Oita Prefecture, standing at 1,583 meters. Its stunning beauty has earned it the affectionate nickname "Hyugo Fuji." From anywhere in the Yufuin basin, you can admire its majestic presence. Revered as a sacred mountain since ancient times, it's mentioned in the "Kojiki" and "Hyugo no Kuni Fudoki." The summit offers a 360-degree panorama, showcasing the Yufuin townscape, Beppu Bay, the Kuju mountain range, and more—a breathtaking display of nature's grandeur. Spring brings a vibrant display of *Miyama Kirishima* rhododendrons, painting the mountain trails in pink. Autumn paints the slopes in fiery reds and yellows, while late autumn sees the trees adorned with rime ice, creating a fantastical landscape. You might even witness the Brocken phenomenon, where your shadow is projected onto the clouds or mist. Mount Yufu is relatively easy to climb, even for beginners, and the view from the top is simply unforgettable. Beyond hiking, the mountain's foothills house the Yufuin hot spring town, offering opportunities to relax in onsen and savor local delicacies. Mount Yufu is a place brimming with natural beauty, history, culture, and the soothing embrace of onsen. It's a must-see destination.