The Ultimate Fukuoka Onsen Guide – From Yufuin & Beppu to Local Ryokan Stays
- by Hana
- May 8
- 3 min read
A Relaxing Hot Spring Getaway in Fukuoka, Japan
Just a 1.5-hour flight from Korea, Fukuoka is one of the most popular travel destinations for Korean tourists—especially those looking for a quick weekend escape.
And when it comes to Fukuoka, hot springs (onsen) are a must. Whether you're looking to melt away stress or just enjoy some slow, peaceful time, a hot spring trip is the perfect way to recharge.
In this post, we’ll cover the best spots around Fukuoka for a memorable onsen experience.
Let’s dive in!!
[1] Why Fukuoka Is a Top Onsen Destination
Fukuoka’s appeal lies in two major things: convenience and variety. With plenty of flights from Incheon, Gimhae, and Jeju, a 2-night weekend trip is totally doable.
Even within the city, you can enjoy urban hot springs, but if you venture just a couple of hours out, you’ll hit some of Japan’s most famous onsen towns—Yufuin and Beppu.
The hot springs in this area are known for their skin-friendly minerals, and you’ll find everything from open-air baths and private tubs to traditional Japanese inns (ryokan). In winter, the snow adds a magical, romantic touch to the entire experience.
[2] Hot Springs in Fukuoka City
Short on time? No worries—Fukuoka city has several hotels with their own hot springs.
You’ll find reasonably priced onsen hotels right in the city center. Many allow you to enjoy a relaxing soak without even leaving your accommodation. Perfect for a short trip!
[3] Yufuin: A Tranquil Onsen Town
Located about 2 hours by train or car from Fukuoka, Yufuin is a serene, upscale hot spring town. The entire area feels like a peaceful retreat, perfect for couples and families.
Highlights of Yufuin:
Many ryokans come with open-air baths, ideal for a romantic stay.
Yunotsubo Street is lined with cute shops selling hot spring eggs, matcha ice cream, and handmade crafts.
Don’t miss Lake Kinrinko in the morning—the misty water with Mt. Yufu in the background is truly picture-perfect.
Yufuin is perfect if you’re into a slow, walkable, healing kind of trip.
How to Visit Yufuin Easily
You can either use a JR pass or book a day tour from Fukuoka. For those short on time or not confident with Japanese, a guided bus tour with a Korean or English-speaking guide is a great option.
→ Curious about more bus tour options? Click here.
[4] Beppu: Japan’s Ultimate Onsen City
Beppu, about 2.5 hours from Fukuoka by bus, is one of Japan’s most iconic hot spring cities.
The whole town is filled with steaming vents—it’s basically the “holy land” of hot springs in terms of scale and variety.
Must-see in Beppu:
Jigoku Meguri (Hell Tour): A popular tour that lets you view dramatic hot springs—red, blue, muddy, and more.
Visit themed “hells” like Umi Jigoku (Sea Hell) and Chinoike Jigoku (Blood Pond Hell).
Try sand baths, foot spas, and enjoy great-value stays at traditional ryokan inns.
Experience the most stunning version
of ‘hell’ at the 7 Hells of Beppu
Beppu Travel Tips
You can visit Beppu independently using a transport pass, or do a combo day tour of Yufuin + Beppu with a guide. Super easy and time-saving.
→ Curious about more bus tour options? Click here.
[5] Tips for Booking a Good Ryokan
One of the best parts of a Japanese hot spring trip is staying in a ryokan, a traditional inn that usually includes both a hot spring bath and a full-course Japanese dinner.
When choosing a ryokan, check:
Does it have open-air baths?
Are private/family baths available?
Is meals included?
What do reviews say?
Popular ryokans in Yufuin and Beppu get booked fast, so try to reserve 2–3 weeks in advance.
[6] Bonus Tips for Your Onsen Trip
Onsen etiquette
: Always shower before getting in, never dip your towel in the water, and note that tattoos may not be allowed in some public baths.
Bring yen (cash)
: Smaller towns often don’t take cards, so carry some cash just in case.
Use transportation passes
: The JR Kyushu Rail Pass or SunQ Pass can save you a lot on transport to and from places like Yufuin and Beppu.
② View Discounted JR Kyushu Rail Pass
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