Name: Yufuin Floral Village
Address: 1503-3 Yufuinchō Kawakami, Yufu, Oita 879-5102, Japan
Telephone: 0977-85-5132
Rating: 4

This small theme park is designed to look like a country village in England's Cotswolds region.

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Dazaifu Tenmangu太宰府天満宮

Kumamoto Castle

Fukuoka Airport

Kushida-jinja Shrine

Yufuin Floral Village is inspired by the charming Cotswolds village in England, which is also the setting for the beloved Peter Rabbit stories.

Inspiration Source

The village features an owl forest, and owls are considered lucky in Japan, symbolizing wisdom and protection.

Lucky Charm

The whimsical atmosphere of Yufuin Floral Village is said to be reminiscent of the worlds created by Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli, making it a popular spot for Ghibli fans.

Studio Ghibli Connection

The village has a shop dedicated to Gouda cheese, reflecting the European influence and offering a unique culinary experience.

Gouda Cheese Shop

Yufuin Floral Village is located in Yufuin, a famous onsen (hot spring) town, allowing visitors to combine the charm of the village with a relaxing onsen experience.

Onsen Town

Yufuin Floral Village

Yufuin Floral Village in Yufu, Oita, Japan, transports visitors to a whimsical recreation of the Cotswolds in England. More than just a collection of flowerbeds, the village meticulously recreates the architectural style, featuring charming stone buildings and thatched roofs. A unique aspect is its connection to the world of animation, specifically Studio Ghibli. One can find shops dedicated to Kiki's Delivery Service, offering merchandise and recreating scenes from the beloved film. This unexpected fusion of English countryside aesthetics and Japanese animation creates a distinctive atmosphere. Beyond the main thoroughfare, smaller courtyards and hidden gardens reveal themselves, offering quiet moments amidst the bustling crowds. The village also houses a small owl forest, providing a close encounter with these majestic birds, adding another layer of unexpected charm to the experience. The attention to detail, from the cobblestone pathways to the carefully curated flower arrangements, contributes to the immersive and enchanting environment.

Introduction

Yufuin Floral Village is a notable section of Yunotsubo Kaido Street, offering a unique experience along this picturesque path. This miniature theme park, accessible without any entrance fee, is modeled after the Cotswolds area in England. Despite its small size, a walk through the village takes only about five minutes, it is a key attraction for visitors strolling Yunotsubo Street.

Located along Yunotsubo Street, en route to Yufuin Floral Village, Studio Ghibli store (Donguri no Mori Yufuin Store) is a must-visit for Studio Ghibli fans which carry a variety of character goodies.

Inside the village, visitors can explore themed areas reminiscent of Harry Potter, Studio Ghibli, and Peter Rabbit. The village's small kiosks operate on a centralized payment system. While exploring, be aware that the Owl Forest, also within Yufuin Floral Village, charges an entrance fee. Some visitors have noted concerns about the animal cafes within the village, particularly regarding the conditions and environment for the animals. Despite mixed reviews, the Yufuin Floral Village is worth visiting if you are in Yufuin.

Yunotsubo Street

Yufuin Floral Village distinguishes itself with an array of character-themed shops, creating a haven for enthusiasts of beloved fictional worlds. Within this miniature theme park modeled after the Cotswolds in England, visitors encounter dedicated spaces for iconic brands such as Harry Potter, Studio Ghibli, Peter Rabbit, Snoopy and Miffy.

The Studio Ghibli store, known as Donguri no Mori Yufuin Store, is a must-visit, offering a variety of character goods ranging from pencil cases to collectible items. The village integrates these shops seamlessly, with areas designed to evoke the magical atmosphere of Ghibli's films. Beyond Ghibli, the village features Snoopy Cha-ya, a Japanese-style teahouse, Snoopy Chocolat, and Woodstock Nest, offering character-themed snacks and sweets. Miffy fans can explore the Miffy Mori No Bakery.

These shops offer exclusive souvenirs and merchandise, from plush toys to collectibles, allowing visitors to take home a piece of their favorite characters. The presence of these character-themed stores significantly contributes to Yufuin Floral Village's whimsical and storybook-like atmosphere, making it a unique destination for fans seeking immersive experiences and exclusive merchandise.

Character-Themed Shops

For those drawn to Yufuin Onsen's therapeutic allure, Yufuin Floral Village offers a complementary experience. While the village itself doesn't house onsen facilities, its proximity to the renowned Yufuin Onsen allows visitors to easily combine cultural exploration with relaxation. After indulging in the healing waters of Yufuin Onsen, a short trip will bring you to the whimsical atmosphere of the Floral Village.

Many ryokan near Yufuin Floral Village feature private onsens, providing an intimate bathing experience with scenic views of Mount Yufu. This allows for a seamless transition from the tranquil onsen to the fairytale-like setting of the village. The village provides a delightful contrast, offering themed shops and cafes to explore after the soothing warmth of the onsen.

The Yufuin Retro Motor Museum, located near Yufuin Floral Village, offers a fascinating collection of vintage vehicles for those interested in history and design. Kinrin Lake, a short walk from the village, is known for its mystical morning mist, created by the warm spring water, providing a serene escape. This blend of cultural attractions and natural beauty enhances the overall onsen experience, making Yufuin a destination that caters to both relaxation and exploration.

Yufuin Onsen

Yufuin Floral Village, nestled in Yufu, Oita, Japan, is meticulously designed to mirror the quaint villages of the Cotswolds region in England. This immersive environment transports visitors into a storybook setting reminiscent of the English countryside. The village's architecture reflects the classic Cotswolds style, creating an atmosphere that appeals to those familiar with the region's aesthetic. Cobblestone streets wind through the village, enhancing the authentic feel of a medieval English town.

Opened in 2012, the village incorporates elements that evoke the charm of the Cotswolds, blending them with other storybook themes such as Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit and subtle nods to the Harry Potter series, which filmed scenes in the Cotswolds. The attention to detail extends to the inclusion of Japanese and English plants, further enhancing the village's unique atmosphere. The overall design aims to create a family-friendly environment where visitors can explore themed shops selling various souvenirs, including baked goods, glasswork, and flowers, all within the Cotswolds-inspired setting. This curated experience offers a taste of the English countryside in the heart of Kyushu, Japan.

Cotswolds-Inspired Design

Kinrin Lake, a picturesque spot near Yufuin Floral Village, offers a serene escape with its famous morning mist, created by the contrast between warm spring water and cool air. Located a short walk from the village, the lake provides a peaceful retreat after exploring the floral-themed attractions. Visitors can wander around the tranquil waters, surrounded by lush greenery and charming little cafes, enhancing the overall sightseeing experience.

The lake's proximity to Yufuin Floral Village makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and themed attractions. After immersing themselves in the fairytale-like surroundings of the village, visitors can easily transition to the calming atmosphere of Kinrin Lake. The lake is known for its fall leaves and the steam that rises from its surface on cold mornings, offering a relaxing end to the day.

A walk around Kinrin Lake offers magnificent views, with clear waters, koi fish, lush greenery, and a torii gate. Benches near Tenso Shrine provide a perfect spot to relax, watch cormorant birds, and enjoy the serene surroundings. The combination of the floral village's charm and the lake's natural beauty creates a memorable experience for tourists.

Yufuin Floral Village

Did You Know?

Inspiration Source

Lucky Charm

Studio Ghibli Connection

Gouda Cheese Shop

Highlights from Reviews

Location