Kinrin Lake is one of the most recognizable scenic attractions in Yufuin, Oita Prefecture. Located in the Yufuin hot spring area, this small lake is famous for the ethereal mist that rises from its surface on cool mornings in autumn and winter.
The lake’s unusual atmosphere is closely connected to its geothermal environment. Both hot spring water and fresh spring water emerge from the lakebed, while five rivers flow into the lake. One of these streams carries water at approximately 30°C, creating a temperature difference that contributes to the formation of mist.
On suitable mornings, the mist drifts above the water and creates a dreamlike landscape. This phenomenon is associated with the morning mist of the Yufuin Basin, one of the area’s best-known natural features.
The lake’s mist is particularly likely to appear from autumn through winter, when the air is cold and the water remains relatively warm. The contrast between the water temperature and the surrounding air causes moisture to condense above the lake’s surface.
The resulting scene is sometimes described using the Japanese term kiribachi, referring to a basin-like landscape filled with mist. The phenomenon has become one of Yufuin’s signature sights and is especially attractive to photographers and travelers who enjoy quiet natural scenery.
Because the lake lies at the foot of Mount Yufu, it was once known by names meaning “the pond below the mountain.” One traditional account states that in 1884, a Confucian scholar saw the scales of fish glimmering gold in the light of the setting sun and gave the lake its present name, Kinrin Lake, meaning “Golden Scales Lake.”
Local tradition also holds that the Yufuin Basin was once occupied by a much larger lake and that Kinrin Lake is a remnant of this ancient body of water. Another account suggests that the lake was once several times larger but became smaller and shallower after landslides associated with earthquakes buried parts of it.
Kinrin Lake covers approximately 8,000 square meters, has a circumference of about 400 meters, and reaches a depth of approximately two meters.
Fish living in the lake include crucian carp, common carp, and Japanese dace, as well as introduced species such as tilapia and guppies. The combination of spring water, geothermal water, and surrounding vegetation contributes to the lake’s distinctive environment.
Kinrin Lake is particularly beautiful during the autumn foliage season. The surrounding trees turn vivid shades of red, orange, and gold, creating colorful reflections on the water.
The peak autumn foliage period is generally around early to mid-November, although the exact timing varies with weather conditions. Visitors who arrive in the early morning may be able to enjoy both the autumn colors and the lake’s characteristic mist.
A torii gate stands beside Kinrin Lake, marking the approach to Tenso Shrine, which is located behind it. The gate originally belonged to nearby Busanji Temple and was moved to its present location during the Meiji-period separation of Shinto and Buddhism.
Tenso Shrine has a worship hall, a main sanctuary, and a sacred cedar tree described in the source as one of the largest in Oita Prefecture. The shrine’s quiet setting adds a spiritual dimension to the lakeside scenery.
On the lakeshore is Shitan-yu, a simple communal hot spring bath housed in a thatched-roof pavilion. Its traditional design and location make it an unusual place to experience Yufuin’s bathing culture.
The facility has an indoor bath and a semi-open-air bathing area that can be enclosed during winter. Outside the winter season, the open design means that the bathing area may be visible from outside. Visitors should take this into account before entering.
The bath is supplied with abundant simple hot spring water, reported in the source to be approximately 40–50°C. Its rustic atmosphere contrasts with the more elaborate facilities of modern hot spring resorts.
Kinrin Lake combines natural beauty, geothermal activity, local legends, and religious heritage in a compact lakeside setting. Whether you visit to photograph the morning mist, enjoy the autumn foliage, explore Tenso Shrine, or learn about traditional hot spring bathing at Shitan-yu, the lake offers a memorable experience of Yufuin’s quieter side.
About 10 minutes by car from the Yufuin Interchange on the Oita Expressway
About 15 minutes on foot from JR Yufuin Station