Kinrin Lake

Wednesday, February 19, 2020 Updated

Mystical Lake

Located in Yufuin Onsen within the Oita Prefecture, Lake Kinrin is a gorgeous lake known for it's almost myth-like appearance. While famous year-round, the lake is well known for the beautiful mist coming off the lake's surface during the colder autumn and winter months. Unlike most lakes in Japan, Kinrin has both a hot-springs well shooting warm jets of water and a regular stream of cold water feeding into the lake. Together, the two streams mix together to produce a mysterious mist during the cool winter and fall mornings. The mist rising above the water create a magical appearance, drawing in numerous tourists, photographers, and nature lovers to this charming nature destination in Japan.

Beloved Nature Hike Destination

In addition to the morning mist, the lake has a number of hiking paths and nature trails for travelers to enjoy. The appearance often changes depending on the way the sun strikes the lake surface or from what point of the path tourists observe the lake from. The lake is home to fish, waterfowl, and other indigenous Japanese wildlife. While the morning mist is a sight in itself, Japan Deluxe Tours recommends guests to stick around to see the gorgeous autumn leaves reflected on the lake's surface. The combination of the majestic mists and fall foliage make Kinrin Lake a popular destination for Fall Japan tours and holiday vacation packages in Beppu.

Gold Scaled Fish Lake

According to local legends, the name Kinrin comes from an old Confucian scholar. One day a scholar was contemplating while walking along the lake. During their travels, they noticed one of the gold-scaled fishes swimming about in the water. Captivated by the beauty, the scholar named the lake Kinrin or Gold Scale in English. Legend says the scholar saw the sunset reflected upon the gold scales of the fish and was amazed by the subtle beauties lost in nature.

Arguably one of the most captivating lakes for photos or to simply rewind your mind, Lake Kinrin is a must for anyone traveling through Japan's Kyushu region. Join Japan Deluxe Tours as we explore this magical lake during our fully guided Southern Japan Tours, or ask your travel agent about our line of affordable custom private tours through Japan.