Jakoshi observatory

Jakoshi Observatory offers one of Yufuin's most rewarding elevated perspectives, drawing visitors who want to step back from the town's charming but busy streets and take in the broader landscape of Oita's gentle basin. Rated 4.2 stars across hundreds of reviews, it has quietly earned a reputation as a worthwhile detour for those willing to seek it out.

When to go

Because the observatory is open around the clock, every hour is an option: dawn brings soft mist rolling across the valley, while dusk casts the surrounding hills in warm tones. Early mornings on weekdays tend to be the most peaceful, giving you the viewpoint largely to yourself before the day's visitors arrive in Yufuin below.

“A wonderful starting spot to drive the Yamanami Highway if you are starting from Yufuin. Loved this view from this high point and can almost see the whole Yufuin. A beautiful place.”— Chungchungbao, Google review