Introduction of proper impurity into $YBa_2Cu_3O_{7-x}$ (YBCO) thin films is an effective way to enhance its flux-pinning properties. We investigate effect of $Y_2O_3$ nanoparticles on the critical current density $J_c$ of the YBCO thin films. The $Y_2O_3$ nanoparticles were created perpendicular to the film surface (parallel with the c-axis) either between YBCO and substrate or on top of YBCO, YBCO/$Y_2O_3$/LAO or $Y_2O_3$/YBCO/STO, by pulsed laser deposition. The deposition temperature of the YBCO films were varied ($780^{circ}C$ and $800^{circ}C$) to modify surface morphology of the YBCO films. Surface morphology characterization revealed that the lower deposition temperature of $780^{circ}C$ created nano-sized holes on the YBCO film surface which may behave as intrinsic pinning centers, while the higher deposition temperature produced much denser and smoother surface. $J_c$ values of the YBCO films with $Y_2O_3$ particles were either remained nearly the same or decreased for the samples in which YBCO is grown at $780^{circ}C$. On the other hand, $J_c$ values were enhanced for the samples in which YBCO is grown at higher temperature of $800^{circ}C$. The difference in the effect of $Y_2O_3$ can be explained by the fact that the higher deposition temperature of $800^{circ}C$ reduces intrinsic pinning centers and $J_c$ is enhanced by introduction of artificial pinning centers in the form of $Y_2O_3$ nanoparticles.