大分県は撮影の天国ですね。 門司区、シュウより
1 / 10

Yufugawa Valley

3.9
·395 reviews·Yufu, Japan

A breathtaking natural canyon near Beppu and Yufuin, featuring steep cliffs, clear waters, and unique rock formations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Refreshing escape from heat

CrowdLow
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大分県は撮影の天国ですね。 門司区、シュウより

Yufugawa Valley

Best Time

Summer mornings

Refreshing escape from heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking natural canyon near Beppu and Yufuin, featuring steep cliffs, clear waters, and unique rock formations.

3.9
(395 reviews)

"Best secret canyon hike experience ever! Totally worth the unplanned reflexological experience!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Bring Water Shoes!

Essential for walking on rough rocks and in and out of water. Your feet will thank you!

⚠️ Watch for Wildlife

Be aware of potential encounters with wild animals like snakes.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Miracle Stone

The Miracle Stone

Canyon floor

A unique rock formation worth the trek, offering a rewarding and memorable experience.

Crystal-Clear Waters

Crystal-Clear Waters

Canyon floor

Wade through refreshing, clear water surrounded by lush greenery and impressive rock formations.

Steep Cliff Scenery

Steep Cliff Scenery

Yufugawa Canyon

Marvel at the breathtaking, steep cliffs that define this natural escape.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Hike

Prepare for a descent of a few hundred steps to reach the canyon floor, which can be tiring on the way up. Water shoes are essential for navigating the rocky terrain and shallow water. Be mindful of potential wildlife encounters.

Best Footwear & Weather

Water shoes are a must for exploring the canyon's wet and rocky paths. Check the weather beforehand; while beautiful in summer, rain can make the experience more challenging and potentially lead to closures.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Refreshing escape from heat
Crowd
Low
When
After rain (check conditions)
Why
Dramatic waterfalls
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Are you a Studio Ghibli fan? 😍 If so, you've got to see this. Yufuin is popular with local tourists, so unlike other more popular tourist destination, you'll find more shops tailored to locals. This Studio Ghibli village is gorgeous though, and it's set right with Yufuin's famous mountain in the back. There's a store dedicated to each popular Studio Ghibli film, with Ponyo, Howl's Movine Castle, ...
@martie_junior
163.5K likes • 907.3K views

🥾 Bring Water Shoes!

Essential for walking on rough rocks and in and out of water. Your feet will thank you! Reddit

⚠️ Watch for Wildlife

Be aware of potential encounters with wild animals like snakes. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Steps Down & Up

Hundreds of steps down to the canyon floor. Coming back up is more tiring. Reddit

💰 Small Entrance Fee

A nominal fee of 100 yen grants access to this beautiful natural spot. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Bring Water Shoes!

Essential for walking on rough rocks and in and out of water. Your feet will thank you! Reddit

⚠️ Watch for Wildlife

Be aware of potential encounters with wild animals like snakes. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Steps Down & Up

Hundreds of steps down to the canyon floor. Coming back up is more tiring. Reddit

💰 Small Entrance Fee

A nominal fee of 100 yen grants access to this beautiful natural spot. Reddit

📸 Capture the Beauty

The canyon offers stunning views, perfect for nature photography. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(395 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Yufugawa Valley is praised as a breathtaking natural escape with stunning cliffs and crystal-clear water, offering a refreshing experience, especially in summer. Visitors highlight the unique 'Miracle Stone' and the invigorating hike. However, the steep steps and rocky terrain require good footwear and can be challenging for some.

"It’s a lovely and refreshing place to visit during the summer. Don’t forget your water shoes.
Just be careful——
there may be wild animals around, such as snakes."

—G— —B—

"Yufugawa Canyon is a breathtaking natural escape near Beppu and Yufuin, offering stunning steep cliffs, crystal-clear water, and lush greenery. It's a serene hidden gem, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. While some access points may be closed due to past damage, guided packraft tours provide a unique way to explore its untouched beauty and impressive rock formations."

Duminda Gamage

"This is a nice canyon. Unfortunately it rained on the day we went and we were the only people there.

You have to walk down couple hundred steps down to the base of the canyon. It’s take 5-10 minutes to get down so it wasn’t bad. Coming back up was more tiring obviously. It may be difficult for elderly people.

It costs 100 yen to get in and the lady at the booth was very friendly.

Nice to go, not a must but recommended."

Ray

What People Like

Breathtaking natural beauty
Refreshing clear water
Unique 'Miracle Stone'

What People Dislike

Challenging steps
Rocky terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Yufugawa Valley is a natural escape near Beppu and Yufuin. Access may vary, and some points might be closed. Guided packraft tours are a unique way to explore. Reddit

Information on direct public transport is limited. It's often best accessed by car or as part of a guided tour from nearby cities like Beppu or Yufuin. Reddit

You'll need to descend several hundred steps to reach the base of the canyon. The walk down takes about 5-10 minutes. Reddit

Parking availability can vary. If driving, look for designated areas near the entrance or inquire locally. Reddit

Yes, it's often visited as a day trip from these popular nearby towns, offering a refreshing natural contrast. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is a small entrance fee of 100 yen per person. The staff at the booth are often noted as being very friendly. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, and access might be restricted due to weather or maintenance. It's advisable to check locally or with tour operators before visiting. Reddit

For general entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan on taking a guided packraft tour, booking ahead is essential. Reddit

Past damage has led to some access point closures. Always check current conditions and be aware of any posted warnings. Reddit

Refund policies are typically not mentioned for such small entrance fees. It's best to visit on a day with favorable weather. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can hike along the canyon floor, wade through the clear water, and admire the steep cliffs and rock formations. Guided packraft tours offer a unique exploration. Reddit

The descent and ascent via hundreds of steps can be challenging for the elderly or those with mobility issues. Reddit

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, preferably water shoes, as you'll be walking on rough, wet rocks. Lightweight, quick-drying clothing is also recommended. Reddit

While you'll be wading through shallow water, swimming as a recreational activity might not be feasible or safe due to the rocky terrain and currents. Reddit

Absolutely! The dramatic cliffs, clear water, and lush greenery make it a stunning location for nature photography. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are typically no dining facilities directly within the canyon itself. It's recommended to eat before or after your visit in nearby Beppu or Yufuin. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea, especially since there are no facilities inside. Remember to pack out all your trash. Reddit

The towns of Beppu and Yufuin offer a wide range of dining options, from local ramen shops to more upscale restaurants. Reddit

Designated picnic areas are not commonly mentioned. You might find spots to rest, but it's best to be prepared to eat on the go or find a suitable spot away from the main path. Reddit

In Beppu, try 'Jigoku Mushi' (hell-steamed dishes). Yufuin is known for its sweets and local produce. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on the dramatic cliff faces, the clear water flowing over rocks, and the lush greenery. The 'Miracle Stone' is also a unique subject. Reddit

Morning light can be beautiful, offering softer shadows. Midday sun can be harsh, but the water reflections can still be striking. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A waterproof case or bag is highly recommended due to the water. Reddit

Drone usage is often restricted in natural parks and canyons to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check local regulations before flying. Reddit

Packraft tours offer unique perspectives from the water, allowing for shots of the canyon walls from a lower angle and capturing the flow of the river. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yufugawa Valley can be an adventure for families, but requires careful consideration. The descent and ascent via hundreds of steps can be challenging for very young children or those who tire easily. Water shoes are a must for everyone, as the canyon floor is rocky and involves wading through water. Ensure children are supervised closely, especially near the water's edge. Reddit

While the natural beauty is captivating, parents should be mindful of potential wildlife, like snakes, and keep children close. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities within the canyon. The experience is more about a refreshing hike and exploring nature than a playground. Consider if your children are comfortable with uneven terrain and getting their feet wet. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Solo Adventurers

Yufugawa Valley offers a rewarding solo exploration for those who enjoy nature and a bit of a challenge. The hike down and back up provides a good workout, and the solitude can be quite peaceful, especially if you visit during off-peak hours. Embrace the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the dramatic scenery at your own pace. Reddit

Safety is paramount for solo travelers. Always inform someone of your plans, including your expected return time. Be extra vigilant about wildlife and the terrain. Carrying a fully charged phone and perhaps a small first-aid kit is advisable. The small entrance fee and the rewarding hike make it an accessible adventure for a solo day trip. Reddit+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Yufugawa Valley is a hidden gem. The dramatic cliffs, clear water, and unique rock formations offer endless creative possibilities. Focus on capturing the textures of the rocks, the movement of the water, and the interplay of light and shadow. The 'Miracle Stone' is a must-capture subject. Reddit

To get the best shots, consider visiting in the early morning for softer light. Be prepared to get your feet wet and potentially your gear, so waterproof protection is essential. Exploring different angles, including low-angle shots from the water, can yield stunning results. The relatively low visitor numbers outside of peak times can also allow for unhindered composition. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Yufugawa Valley: A Hiker's Guide

Yufugawa Valley offers a refreshing natural escape, but it requires some preparation. The primary access involves descending a significant number of steps, estimated at a few hundred, which can take 5-10 minutes. While the descent is manageable, the return climb can be more strenuous, making it a consideration for visitors with limited stamina or mobility issues. The terrain at the canyon floor is rough and involves walking in and out of the water, making water shoes an absolute necessity. These protect your feet from sharp rocks and provide better grip. Reddit

Beyond the physical aspects, visitors should be aware of the natural environment. The reviews mention the possibility of encountering wild animals, such as snakes, so it's wise to stay alert and avoid disturbing the local fauna. The beauty of the canyon is best appreciated when the weather is cooperative. While it's a lovely summer destination, heavy rain can impact accessibility and safety, sometimes leading to temporary closures. Checking local conditions before your visit is highly recommended. Reddit

Despite the challenges, the reward is a truly unique experience. The 'Miracle Stone' is frequently cited as a highlight, a natural formation that makes the trek worthwhile. The crystal-clear water and steep cliffs create a breathtaking panorama, offering a sense of untouched natural beauty. For those seeking a more immersive adventure, guided packraft tours provide an unparalleled way to explore the canyon's hidden corners and impressive rock formations from the water. Reddit

Photography Tips for Yufugawa Valley

Yufugawa Valley presents a fantastic opportunity for nature photographers, with its dramatic landscapes and clear waters. The steep cliffs provide a grand backdrop, while the crystal-clear water flowing over rocks offers dynamic compositions. Look for interesting textures in the rock formations and the play of light on the water's surface. The 'Miracle Stone' is a unique subject that can be captured from various angles to emphasize its unusual shape. Reddit

Timing is crucial for the best photographic results. Morning light often yields softer, more flattering illumination, reducing harsh shadows and bringing out the vibrant greens of the surrounding vegetation. While midday sun can be intense, it can also create strong contrasts and highlight the clarity of the water. If you visit after rain, the increased water flow can add drama to your shots, showcasing powerful cascades and a more vibrant environment. Reddit

Practical considerations are also key for photographers. Given the wet and rocky terrain, a waterproof camera bag or case is essential to protect your equipment. Wearing appropriate footwear, like water shoes, will allow you to move more freely and safely to find the best vantage points. While drones might offer unique aerial perspectives, be sure to check local regulations regarding their use in natural areas to avoid any issues. Reddit+1

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