Yufuin no Mori

The Yufuin no Mori is one of Kyushu’s most iconic sightseeing trains. It connects Fukuoka’s Hakata Station with the hot spring town of Yufuin and the city of Beppu. JR Kyushu launched the train in 1989, helping to transform Yufuin into one of Japan’s best-known countryside resort destinations. While nearby Beppu built its reputation on large-scale hot spring tourism, Yufuin embraced a quieter identity centered around nature, relaxation and slow travel. JR Kyushu shaped the Yufuin no Mori around that philosophy, creating the feeling of a moving highland resort winding through Kyushu’s countryside. 

Onboard the Yufuin no Mori 

Photo by: PIXTA/ ninochan555

The Yufuin no Mori doesn’t feel like a typical limited express train, despite making only nine stops. From the deep green exterior to the warm wooden interiors, everything is designed to match the slower, countryside atmosphere of Yufuin.

Large panoramic windows and slightly raised seating make it easy to take in Kyushu’s mountain and river scenery. One of the most popular spots onboard is the observation area at the front and rear of the train, where passengers can sit directly behind the driver’s cab and watch the tracks curve through the countryside. It gives the journey a much more immersive feel than simply sitting in a standard train carriage.

The train has comfortable paired seating with generous legroom and large tray tables. Some Yufuin no Mori services run with five cars, while others use four-car formations that include lounge areas and observation spaces. Groups can also book semi-private booth seating for three or four passengers, though these seats are only available through in-person reservations at JR Kyushu ticket counters.

The onboard buffet and bar counter are worth visiting even if you’ve already packed snacks. Alongside drinks and original train souvenirs, the menu includes regional bento lunches and sweets made with local Oita ingredients. The signature Yufuin no Mori Bento and Oita Wagyu beef bento are two of the onboard favorites.

The Journey Through Kyushu 

Photo by: PIXTA/ ninochan555

After leaving the city streets of Fukuoka behind, the Yufuin no Mori gradually moves into small farming towns, passing forests, river valleys and mountain scenery. The train winds through the Minou mountain region and along the Kusu River valley. Along the way, onboard staff occasionally point out notable landmarks and scenery. One of the journey’s best-known moments comes near Jion-no-taki Falls, where the train slows down so passengers can properly take in the waterfall from the windows.

The Yufuin no Mori operates year-round, with scenery that shifts from fresh spring greenery and cherry blossoms to mountainsides covered in deep autumn reds and golds.

Near the end of the journey, the train approaches Mount Yufu, where views open across the Oita River and the surrounding countryside before arriving in Yufuin. In spring, cherry blossoms and bright yellow canola flowers often bloom along the riverbanks beneath the mountain backdrop, creating one of the most memorable scenes of the trip.