Experience the very relaxing Japanese custom of communal bathing in a hot spring onsen at the foot of Mount Yufu.

While the Yufuin district offers plenty of things to do, the highlight for most tourists is a visit to Yufuin Onsen. The hot springs area uses water heated naturally by geothermal activity. Join visiting international and Japanese tourists as well as locals relaxing for several hours in the comforting and curative surroundings.

The onsen temperature is about 105 F (40 C). The natural waters typically contain numerous minerals thought to provide health benefits. Come here to seek temporary relief from diabetes, gout, constipation, obesity and stress. Some waters are blue in colour and said to be helpful for moisturizing skin.

Learn general etiquette rules for onsen before you book your visit to help decide where to go. Some spots prohibit anyone with a tattoo from entering the baths. Many onsens separate bathing areas by gender and require bathing in the nude, no swimsuits allowed. Be sure to bring hair ties or a headband if needed so your hair does not fall into the water. Always shower with soap and rinse well before entering an onsen. Leave your phone and camera in a locker and simply relax in the calming waters.

Yufuin Onsen is not just a single site but actually the large resort area of Yufuin district near Mount Yufu and Lake Kinrin. Numerous individual establishments offer a broad range of amenities from humble to extravagant. Some allow only locals. Others are open to tourists staying overnight. Still others permit day visits.

For pure luxury, select an overnight stay at an onsen with gourmet dining, including the tenderest Japanese beef. Enjoy views of the mountain and lake, particularly enchanting when morning mist fills the valley.

The area has many festivals. Book your onsen visit well in advance to be present during the Yufuin Music Festival in July, the Yufuin Film Festival in August or the very unusual Yufuin Eating Beef Screaming Competition in October when hundreds of participants eat Oita Bungo beef and shout inspirational thoughts, judged on quality and loudness.

Get to Yufuin Onsen easily by taking the train to Yufuin Station and walking for about 10 minutes.