1
Nasu Heisei no Mori

Panoramic view of the stunning waterfalls adorned with autumn leaves

This is a spot where visitors can enjoy forest bathing at the foot of the mountains of Nasu. Originally off-limits as the site of the Nasu Imperial Villa, the park has been opened as a place where visitors can experience the richness of nature. Visitors can take a walk through the forest from the field center near the parking lot to the Komadome Falls viewing platform. It takes about 45 minutes one-way to get a panoramic view of the magnificent waterfall, which is colored by the autumn leaves.

For those who wish to become more deeply familiar with nature in autumn, a "guided walk" through the forest with a guide called an interpreter is recommended. The tour is a great way to enjoy the unspoiled nature with professional commentary.

[Best Time to View Fall Foliage] Typically late October
[Tree Species] Japanese white oak, maple, azalea, etc.

Local Guide

You can also drive to the Komadome Falls viewing platform. A 10-minute walk from the falls is Kita Hot Spring, famous as a movie shooting location, so a stopover is also recommended.

Nasu Heisei no Mori

• 3254 Takaku Hei, Takaku Hei, Nasu-cho, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture (Nasu Heisei no Mori Field Center) MAP
• Approx. 50 min. by car from JR Nasu Shiobara Station
• Normal / 9:00-16:30, May, July, August / 9:00-17:00
• Wednesdays (if Wednesday is a national holiday, closed the following day)
• Admission free (fee-based programs available)
  *Guided walks are available for a fee, advance reservations required
• 0287-74-6808
• Free
• Guided walks are available for a fee and must be reserved in advance (elementary school students and older)
  
  

2
Chausudake

A mountain spot where beginners and hikers alike can enjoy climbing in the autumn foliage

This active volcano is the main peak of the Nasu mountain range and still emits a white plume of smoke. In the fall, visitors can enjoy the spectacular view of the mountain covered in autumn colors of azaleas and Japanese maple trees. The mountain can be enjoyed by beginners and there are a variety of trails. The trailhead is at the foot of the Nasu Ropeway station at the 7th station.

Those who are not comfortable climbing the mountain can use the "Nasu Ropeway" to Direction from the base station to the summit station at the ninth station. Visitors can enjoy a 4-minute walk in the air and enjoy the slowly changing, colorful and spectacular scenery.

[Best Time to View Fall Foliage] Typically early to mid-October
[Tree Species] Japanese andromeda, Japanese rowan, Japanese white birch, Japanese maple, etc.

Local Guide

From the summit station, it is a 50-minute walk to the top of Chausudake. Chausudake, and it is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes because of the rugged rocky terrain.

Chausudake (Mt. Chausu)

• Oaza-Yumoto, Nasu-cho, Nasu-gun, Tochigi MAP
• Approx. 50 min. by car from JR Nasu Shiobara Station (to Nasu Ropeway Sanroku Station)
• Free of charge
• 0287-76-2619（Nasu Tourist Association)
• Free of charge (Free Parking for Nasu Ropeway)
• Please check the official website for Nasu ropeway rates, etc.

3
Ubagadaira

A photo spot where the contrast between the autumn leaves and the volcanic fumes of Chausu-dake (Mt. Chausu) is stunning

Ubagadaira, a shrubland area on Chausudake and famous as a photo spot for viewing the autumn leaves, is a magnificent sight with azaleas, Japanese maples, and mountain maples turning the whole area a fiery red. It is a 40-minute walk from the summit station of the Nasu Ropeway, and Ubagadaira can be seen from Ushigashira on the way to the top of the mountain.

Near Ubagadaira, there is a pond called Hyotan-ike (Hyotan Pond). The reflection of Mount Chausu and autumn leaves on the surface of the pond looks like a painting. It is a popular photo spot that cannot be missed.

Best time to see the autumn leaves: Usually in early October.
Kind of trees】Doudan azalea, Nanakamado (mountain ash), Yamamomiji (mountain maple), etc.

Local Guide

There are no restrooms on the trail, so be sure to prepare for climbing by going to the restroom at the ropeway's Sanroku Station or the summit station.

Ubagadaira

• Oaza-Yumoto, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi MAP
• Approx. 50 min. by car from JR Nasu Shiobara Station (to Nasu Ropeway Sanroku Station)
• Free of charge
• 0287-76-2619（Nasu Tourist Association)
• Free of charge (Free Parking for Nasu Ropeway)
• Please check the official website for Nasu ropeway rates, etc.

4
Tsutsuji Suspension Bridge

A thrilling suspension bridge for viewing the autumn leaves

The suspension bridge in Nasu Yumoto boasts a total length of 130 meters and a height of 38 meters. Located near the Hachiman Tsutsuji Park, which is known for its azalea blossoms, the bridge offers a beautiful view of the autumn leaves of the Nasu Mountain Range.

To reach the Tsutsuji Suspension Bridge, you can use either the Tsutsuji Suspension Bridge parking lot or the parking lot at the “Tochigi Prefectural Nasu Highlands Nature Center” on the Yawata Azalea Garden side.The “Yawata Nature Trail,” which takes about an hour to walk around, has been developed around the Yawata Azalea Garden, so we recommend enjoying an autumn hike along with a visit to the suspension bridge.

[Best Time to View Fall Foliage] Typically mid-October
[Tree Species] Maple, Japanese white oak, azaleas, etc.

Local Guide

The center of the bridge is a thrilling experience, as there is a grid of holes at the foot of the bridge that allows visitors to see the bottom of the valley. At Daimaru Hot Spring, located a few minutes away by car, visitors can enjoy an outdoor hot spring on the river surrounded by nature.

Tsutsuji Suspension Bridge

• Oaza-Yumoto, Nasu-cho, Nasu-gun, Tochigi MAP
• Approximately 33 minutes from JR Nasu Shiobara Station by car
• Take a bus from JR Nasu Shiobara Station, get off at Tsutsuji Suspension Bridge Entrance, and walk for a short time.
• Free of charge
• 0287-76-2619（Nasu Tourist Association)
• Free

5
Maple Leaf Valley Suspension Bridge

A romantic spot where the colorful mountains are reflected on the surface of the lake

This is one of the longest suspension bridges in Japan, with a total length of 320 meters, spanning the Shiobara Dam Lake. The sight of the red and yellow mountains reflected on the lake during the fall foliage season is beyond description. It has been recognized as a "Lover's Mecca" as a romantic spot suitable for marriage proposals.

The "Forest Station" next to the park has a Restaurant, and we recommend the terrace seats where you can take a break while viewing the colors of the mountains in the autumn leaves. The restaurant offers a variety of meals such as curry and tempura rice bowls, as well as light meals such as soft-serve ice cream. There is also a store selling Tochigi's famous confections, bamboo and wood crafts, and other items.

Autumn foliage viewing season: Usually from early November to mid-November.
Tree species】Momiji, Iroha-momiji, etc.

Local Guide

The forest station also sells seasonal vegetables and fruits directly from the production area. Experience tours such as SUP and kayaking are also available (advance reservations required). The view of the autumn leaves from the Momiji Valley (Shiobara Dam Lake) will give you a different impression.

Momiji Valley Suspension Bridge

• 1425-60 Sekiya, Nasu Shiobara, Tochigi MAP
• Approximately 25 minutes from JR Nasu Shiobara Station by car
• Take a bus from JR Nasu Shiobara Station, get off at Momijidani Suspension Bridge and walk about 5 minutes.
• April-October: 8:30-18:00
  November-March: 8:30-16:00
• Adults: 400 yen; Elementary and Junior High School Students: 300 yen
  *Prices effective October 1, Reiwa 8 and thereafter
• 0287-34-1037
• Free

6
Daisen approach road

A tunnel of maple trees to visit with camera in hand

A spot where visitors can walk through a tunnel of bright red maple trees. The trees are mostly old trees with thick trunks and well-developed branches, and the autumn colors of the maple trees with a strong presence are well worth seeing. The beauty of the trees is so beautiful that one cannot help but let out a sigh of relief, attracting visitors with cameras in hand.

Best time to view autumn foliage: Usually from mid-November to late November.
Kind of trees】Momiji, Iroha-momiji, etc.

Local Guide

The pioneering history of Nasu field, including the Oyama approach, was recognized as a Japanese Heritage Site in 2018. A tour of historical spots is also recommended, including the "Oyama Memorial Western-style House" built on the farm established by Iwao Oyama and the "Former Aoki Family's Nasu Residence" where you can learn about the Meiji aristocracy.

Daisen approach road

• 2-3 Shimonagata, Nasu Shiobara City, Tochigi Prefecture MAP
• Approx. 5 min. walk from JR Nishinasuno Station
• Free of charge
• 0287-37-5107（Nishinasuno Tourist Association)
• Free (Daisen Park)

7
Beni no Hanging Bridge

A spot in the center of a hot spring resort town with glistening maple trees

The 52.5-meter-long suspension bridge spans the Broomstick River along the main street of Shiobara hot spring resort. As its name suggests, the suspension bridge is surrounded by maple trees that turn red in autumn, providing a breathtaking view. Beyond the bridge is a 900-meter promenade where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while listening to the murmuring of the river.

Nearby is the Shiobara Mononogatari Kan (Shiobara Hot Springs Storytelling Museum), which includes an exhibition room (for a fee) that tells the history of Shiobara hot springs, a restaurant, a direct sales shop, and a terrace where visitors can take a break while viewing the autumn leaves and the suspension bridge.

Autumn foliage viewing season: Usually from early November to mid-November.
Kind of trees】Keyaki, maple, etc.

Local Guide

Shiobara hot spring village has several outdoor hot springs, traditional public bathhouses, and Daytrip Destinations where you can casually drop in. The quality and atmosphere of the hot springs vary, so why not combine your autumn leaf viewing with a visit to one of the hot springs?

Red Suspension Bridge

• Aza Furumachi, Shiobara, Nasu Shiobara City, Tochigi Prefecture MAP
• Approximately 34 minutes from JR Nishinasuno Station by car
• Take a bus from JR Nasu Station, get off at the last stop, “Shiobara Hot Spring Bus Terminal,” and walk 2 minutes
• Free of charge
• 0287-32-4000（ Shiobara Hot Spring Tourist Association)
• Free (Shiobara Mononogatari Kan)

8
Taisho Roman Gorge Trail

Take a stroll along the maple road along the valley

National Route 400 runs through Shiobara hot spring village and the Houkawa River valley. This 1.3-km long gently sloping paved road was created by improving the old road, which had lost traffic due to the tunneling of the road. Walking along the path while slowly admiring the colorful foliage, visitors can fully enjoy Shiobara in the fall.

Numerous waterfalls can be seen from the walking trail, and if you go a little further, you can stop by the "Kaiteno-Hanging Bridge" and the "Momijidani Suspension Bridge. Shiobara has been visited by many writers since the Meiji period (1868-1912) and is dotted with literary monuments, making a tour of literary spots enjoyable.

Autumn foliage viewing season: Usually from early November to late November.
Kinds of trees】Keyaki, yellow maple, oak, etc.

Local Guide

The walking path is along the canyon, but there are several benches along the way and toilets are available. Since the path is not for pedestrians only, you can of course enjoy the autumn foliage while driving.

The Taisho Roman Valley Trail

• Sekiya, Nasu City, Tochigi Prefecture MAP
• Approximately 26 minutes from JR Nishinasuno Station by car
• Free of charge
• 0287-32-4000（ Shiobara Hot Spring Tourist Association)