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Though close in distance to the nearby tourist onsen resort of Beppu, in terms of character and atmosphere the picturesque Yufuin Onsen is a world apart.

Aspiring to be somewhat more refined than its neighbor, the town brims with elegant country inns, museums and galleries.

It is set in a scenic location at the foot of Mount Yufudake, on the shores of the thermally warmed Lake Kinrin.

Exploring Yufuin

Lakeside walking and cycling paths lead past many of the traditional hot spring baths for which the area is famed, and which constitute the principal reason for most Japanese tourists' visit.

Also worth a visit in town are the Yufuin Museum and the Yufuin Folk Art Village, where local artisans can be seen at work producing ceramics, toys and traditional glassware, among other items.