✅ Things to check before the tour
1) Basic refund/change regulations
- No-shows on the day are non-refundable.
- As the principle is to depart on time, late arrivals will be considered no-shows without separate notice.
- If the tour is canceled before departure due to a natural disaster, a full refund will be given.
2) Regulations related to flight cancellation
- Upon submission of a cancellation certificate (including passenger name) → 100% refund * However, same-day flight delays are non-refundable.
- Customers arriving/departing on the same day cannot use the tour, and refunds for this reason are also difficult.
- Youtour Bus is not responsible for any delays or failure to board the aircraft.
3) Cancellation due to personal reasons
- Minor health issues such as mild colds, fever, stomachache, and hangovers are non-refundable.
- Cancellations due to personal reasons such as changes in personal schedule or simple change of mind are non-refundable.
- Child (minor) illness → Full refund for child + 1 guardian upon submission of medical certificate (if both guardians cancel, no refund for 1 additional person)
- Illness → Refund is available for one person upon submission of a medical certificate
- Emergency return → 100% refund upon submission of relevant documentation
4) Changes in the itinerary due to sudden weather or local conditions during the tour
Tours are intended to proceed as scheduled, but in the event of unpredictable circumstances such as bad weather (heavy rain, typhoons, heavy snow), earthquakes, Japanese holidays, or local road conditions (construction, accidents, traffic congestion), the following changes may occur.
■ Schedule subject to change
- Change of driving route (detour driving)
- Wait safely at rest areas, service areas, etc.
- Some tourist attractions are omitted or replaced with alternative schedules.
- If the highway is closed or safe driving is impossible, the tour will be canceled and returned to the starting point.
■ Information on refunds and delays
- Please understand that situations like the above are beyond our control and may result in schedule changes, shortening, or interruption. Therefore, we cannot provide a 100% refund.
- Due to detours and safety measures, arrival times at tourist attractions or the overall tour end time may be significantly delayed. We ask for your understanding as these measures are taken with your safety as our top priority.
5) Notes for use
- The carrier can be loaded into the bus luggage compartment.
- Since the seats are not assigned, to avoid any trouble, please remain in the same seat you were in when the tour began until the end.
6) Regarding party and vehicle assignment
If you have made separate reservations from your group, please notify us in advance. If you make separate reservations without prior notice, you may be assigned a different vehicle from your group. Furthermore, changing car numbers may not be possible the day before or on the day of your trip, depending on seating availability.
Yufuin is known for its serene and picturesque atmosphere, often described as a charming, artistic hot spring town. It features quaint streets, unique boutiques, art galleries, and cafes, surrounded by natural beauty including Mount Yufu. While it generally maintains a tranquil ambiance, popular areas like Yunotsubo Street and Kinrinko Lake can attract significant crowds, especially on weekends, public holidays, and during peak tourist seasons.
Yufuin is famous for its natural hot springs and scenic beauty, particularly Mount Yufu. Key attractions include Kinrinko Lake, known for its mystical morning mist, and Yunotsubo Street, lined with charming shops selling local crafts, sweets, and souvenirs. The town also boasts several art museums and galleries, offering a blend of traditional Japanese culture and artistic flair. Visitors enjoy exploring its pedestrian-friendly streets and relaxing in its many cafes and foot baths.
Yufuin is located in Oita Prefecture, on the island of Kyushu, Japan, while Fukuoka is the largest city on Kyushu and also the capital of Fukuoka Prefecture. They are distinct geographical entities. Yufuin is situated roughly 120-150 kilometers east of Fukuoka, making it a popular day trip or overnight stay destination from Fukuoka. Travel typically involves a bus or train journey across different prefectures.
Yufuin Floral Village is a compact, charming themed area inspired by European villages. Most visitors find that 1 to 1.5 hours is sufficient to explore its small shops, take photos, and soak in the unique atmosphere. It’s ideal for a leisurely stroll and a quick stop within a broader visit to Yufuin, rather than an activity requiring several hours.
The most common and convenient way to travel between Yufuin and Beppu is by bus. Regular local buses connect the two towns, with journey times typically around 50-60 minutes. There are also train services available, though they might involve transfers depending on the specific route chosen. A bus tour often provides direct transfers between these locations as part of its itinerary.
Yes, it is feasible to visit both Yufuin and Beppu as a day trip from Fukuoka, though it will be a full day of travel and sightseeing. Many organized bus tours offer this itinerary, providing efficient transportation and a structured schedule. If traveling independently, it requires careful planning of train or bus schedules to maximize time at each destination.
The most straightforward bus option from Fukuoka to Yufuin is the Kyushu Sanko Bus (Yufuin-go). These express buses depart from Hakata Bus Terminal and Fukuoka Airport, offering direct service to Yufuin Bus Center. The journey typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended.
Kamado Jigoku, one of Beppu's "Hells," is known for its distinct mud pools, boiling hot springs, and steam vents. Visitors can witness various unique formations, including a "cooking pot" hell where 90-degree Celsius steam billows, and different colored mud ponds. It also offers foot baths, unique hot spring steamed snacks, and demonstrations of steam power, providing an engaging and sensory experience.