Local Guide
5 Activity Experience Spots to Enjoy Nature and Culture in Nasu Highlands

Nasu Kogen has a completely different appearance in each of spring, summer, fall, and winter. Direction from central Tokyo makes it easy to visit, making it a popular destination for couples and families of all ages. Here are some recommended Activity Experience spots, such as spots where you can stroll around while feeling the power of nature and historic hot springs, if you are not sure where to go when sightseeing in Nasu.

The oldest hot spring in Tochigi Prefecture with 1,300 years of history.

A hot spring representing Nasu Yumoto. Be careful as you cannot wash your body with soap
A hot spring representing Nasu Yumoto. Be careful as you cannot wash your body with soap

This historic hot spring was opened in the first half of the 7th century, about 1,391 years ago. A hunter chased after a deer he had shot and missed, and saw it healing its wounds in this hot spring. The hot spring was named "Shika-no-yu" (hot spring for deer) because it was discovered by a deer. It has long been used as a therapeutic hot spring, and is also known as the place where Matsuo Basho stopped during the first half of his journey "Oku no Hosomichi" (The Narrow Road to the Deep North). The atmospheric wooden building was reconstructed in 1941. The atmosphere of the bathhouse, which is still passed down today, shows the grandeur of the years.

A unique bathing experience with unique bathing methods.

Hot springs with different temperatures. There used to be a hot spring with a temperature of 52 degrees Celsius. The water is soft, so it is easy to enter even at high temperatures.
Hot springs with different temperatures. There used to be a hot spring with a temperature of 52 degrees Celsius. The water is soft, so it is easy to enter even at high temperatures.

Visitors can experience "Kaburi Yu" and "Short Hot Spring Baths. Kaburi-yu is a bathing method that enhances the effects of hot springs, and is one of the few such methods in Japan. There are six types of bathtubs: 41, 42, 43, 44, 46, and 48°C (the women's bathtub does not have a 48°C bathtub, but a spacious one). Enter at your favorite temperature, but do not take a long bath. Try to take shorter baths and take breaks while bathing. The cloudy water is sulfur spring water. The effect is to activate the intestines, so your body will be warm and fluffy after bathing. After enjoying the hot spring, do not forget to buy souvenirs such as hot spring elements and commemorative bathing towels.

Local Guide Comment
Many people still visit this place for hot-spring cures. Even if you go there for sightseeing, it is recommended to experience the hot-spring cure culture. The wooden architecture that hangs over the river filled with long years is one of the highlights.
Nasu hot spring Shika-no-yu
  • Address 181 Yumoto, Nasu-cho, Nasu-gun, Tochigi MAP
  • Direction 30 minutes by car from JR Kuroiso Station
  • Bus Direction Take a bus from JR Kuroiso Station, get off at "Nasu Yumoto Hot Spring" and walk about 2 minutes.
  • Hours of Operation 8:00-18:00 (last admission at 17:30)
  • Closed No holidays
  • Admission Fee Adults 500 yen, elementary school students 300 yen, free for infants
  • TEL 0287-76-3098
  • Parking Free of charge

A famous mountain in Nasu that is easy for even beginners to climb and offers a great view of Nasu's natural beauty

The mountain is recognized as one of the 100 most famous mountains in Japan. The spectacular view from the top of the mountain is a treat that only those who have climbed the mountain can enjoy!
The mountain is recognized as one of the 100 most famous mountains in Japan. The spectacular view from the top of the mountain is a treat that only those who have climbed the mountain can enjoy!

Chausudake, the main peak of the Nasu mountain range. Chausudake, is an active volcano that is still blowing white plumes of smoke. From spring to early summer, you can see lush fresh greenery, and in autumn, you can see the autumn leaves spreading all over the mountain. The mountain is an easy challenge even for beginners, and there are a variety of courses, from easy hikes to those for serious climbers, that can be chosen according to the time spent and the level of the climber. The Nasu Ropeway takes you all the way to the summit station at the ninth station. The aerial walk up the mountain is an exciting experience.

Chausudake, and the surrounding area is full of attractions not to be missed!

Nasu Kogen Observatory is also known as
Nasu Kogen Observatory is also known as "Lover's Mecca. It is the 100th place in Japan to be registered as a sacred place for lovers, and is also a famous place for marriage proposals.

Even though it is an easy climb, be sure to prepare carefully before climbing the mountain. Depending on the day, the temperature varies between daytime and evening, and it can feel chilly. Be sure to take warm clothing. A light cardigan or something to wear is useful.
There are many sightseeing spots at the foot of the mountain before you reach the trailhead, including the legend of the nine-tailed fox and other legends such as "Kakuseishi," or "Nasu Hot Spring Shrine. On a clear day, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Kanto Plain from the Nasu Kogen Observation Deck, which is located 1,048 meters above sea level. Please stop by the surrounding tourist spots before climbing the mountain to enjoy the various views.

Local Guide Comment
It takes about 50 minutes on foot from the summit station to the top of Mt. Chausudake, and it takes about 50 minutes on foot from the summit station to the top of the mountain.
Chausudake (Mt. Chausu)
  • Address Oaza-Yumoto, Nasu-cho, Nasu-gun, Tochigi MAP
  • Direction Approximately 40 minutes by car from JR Nasu Shiobara Station (to Nasu Ropeway foot station)
  • Admission Fee Free of charge
  • TEL 0287-76-2619（Nasu Tourist Association)
  • Parking Free of charge (Free Parking for Nasu Ropeway)
  • Memo Please check the official website for Nasu ropeway rates, etc.
    ( https://www.nasu-ropeway.jp/ )

    *Please check the official website for Nasu ropeway rates, etc.

Experience horseback riding at a ranch where you can feel the fresh breeze that is typical of Nasu

There are two courses to choose from: 1 km (about 30 minutes) and 2 km (about 60 minutes).
There are two courses to choose from: 1 km (about 30 minutes) and 2 km (about 60 minutes).

The ranch spreads out over the hills of Nasu-no-ga-hara with an excellent view. In spring, the area is lined with cherry blossom trees, and in fall, it is decorated with the autumn colors of metasequoia trees. Horse trekking is a safe experience even for beginners, and visitors can enjoy riding outside while leisurely swaying on the back of a horse and gazing at the magnificent mountain range that stretches from the Nikko mountain range to Mount Nasu. It is better to wear long sleeves, long pants, and athletic shoes when riding (short sleeves are OK in summer). If you need to change clothes, you can use the simple changing rooms in the Property. In addition, boots, gloves, and helmets are available for rent (or bring your own).

Enjoy a rich time with horses and lunch

Watching the horses being brushed and groomed is a very relaxing experience.
Watching the horses being brushed and groomed is a very relaxing experience.

For those who would like to enjoy more casual interaction with the horses, there is also a "petting experience" where you can pull a horse for a walk, brush it, feed it, etc., and a "pulling horse course" for children only. The appeal of this experience is that you can choose the content of the Experience according to your physical fitness, age, and the time available on your trip.
There is also a comfortable on-site Restaurant, where you can enjoy "farm vegetable curry," grilled chicken, and other dishes made with fresh local ingredients in a lunch box. Also, on sunny weekends, the Weekend Café appears under the blue sky. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing tea time with a brown sugar latte or homemade lemonade.

NASU FARM VILLAGE
  • Address 1298-1, Saibara, Otawara-shi, Tochigi MAP
  • Business hours Open 11:00-17:00
  • Closed Wednesdays, 2nd and 4th Thursdays (irregular holidays)
  • Admission Fee Horseback Riding Experience 1 km, 30 min. course, 9,700 yen
  • TEL 0287-54-0009
  • Memo Please check the website for details such as restrictions on riding, restaurant and café hours, etc.

Beautiful emerald green waterfalls cascading down in Nasu

From the viewing platform, you can look down on the beautiful Komadome Falls.
From the viewing platform, you can look down on the beautiful Komadome Falls.

Komadome Falls is said to be so beautiful that even horses stopped to take a look. In the past, the waterfall could only be seen during the period after the leaves had fallen from the trees, but with the opening of the "Nasu Heisei no Mori" park, a viewing platform was built so that visitors can enjoy the powerful sight of the falls all year round.
The clear blue waterfalls, which are reflected in the seasonal contrast of nature, such as fresh greenery and autumn leaves, are a must-see. Those who wish to see the water flow up close can bring a telescope or camera to get an even closer view of the falls. From "Komadome-no-oka," a short walk from the waterfall, you can also view the majestic Nasu mountain range.

The sound of the water echoing around the area will soothe you from the bottom of your heart.

The Yosasa River flows below Komadome Falls. It is said that Emperor Showa once took a walk here.
The Yosasa River flows below Komadome Falls. It is said that Emperor Showa once took a walk here.

After viewing the waterfall, walk along the "Nasu Shizen Kenkyuji Shiratogawa Line," a newly opened promenade on April 1, 2021, which makes it easier to reach the Hachiman Azalea Park, where 200,000 beautiful flowers are in full bloom. Kita Hot Spring" is located nearby, so it is recommended to stop by to relax after a hard day's work.
It is about a 40-minute walk from the field center of the "Nasu Heisei no Mori". You can walk to the waterfall while enjoying a stroll surrounded by the pristine nature of Nasu. If you are short on time, you can also use the parking lot near the waterfall.

Local Guide Comment
Before Nasu Heisei no Mori was opened, it was called a phantom waterfall because it was blocked by trees. The cascading waterfalls, along with the seasonal scenery, are a must-see.
Komadome Falls (in Nasu Heisei no Mori)
  • Address 3254 Takaku Hei, Takaku Hei, Nasu-cho, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture (Nasu Heisei no Mori Field Center) MAP
  • Direction Approx. 50 min. by car from JR Nasu Shiobara Station
  • Hours of Operation 9:00-16:30, May, August, October - 17:00 (Field Center)
  • Closed Wednesdays (if Wednesday is a national holiday, closed the following day)
  • Admission Fee Admission free (fee-based programs available)
    *Guided walks are available for a fee, advance reservations required
  • TEL 0287-74-6808
  • Parking Free of charge

A place where you can feel the natural beauty of Nasu in each of the four seasons

The forest is rich in nature. A natural beech forest and rare animals can be observed.
The forest is rich in nature. A natural beech forest and rare animals can be observed.

This nature park is located at the foot of the Nasu mountains, where visitors can enjoy forest bathing to the fullest. The park opened in 2011 as a place where visitors can experience the richness of nature in an area that was previously inaccessible.
The park offers "guided walks" through the forest with staff/staff members called interpreters who are well versed in the surrounding nature. Visitors can walk through the forest while listening to stories about the highlights of the season and the day, as well as the creatures that live in the forest. Enjoy walking among azaleas in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter.

Gather information about the forest at the field center

Reservations for guided walks, etc. can be made here. Ask the Staff/staff member about the scenery and attractions you can see that day.
Reservations for guided walks, etc. can be made here. Ask the Staff/staff member about the scenery and attractions you can see that day.

The Field Center, located on the grounds, provides information on the history of the park and interesting discoveries on walks through the forest, and we recommend participating in the free 30-minute mini-programs and mini-guides offered twice a day. There is also a library corner and a daily café during the green season. (Please check the website for the schedule of café openings.)
The "Nasu Heisei no Mori" is a place where you can enjoy "nature as it is" because it has not been modified. Please visit to feel the fresh air of Nasu.

Local Guide Comment
For a guided walk through the forest while listening to the interpreter, the "Owl Course" is recommended. Even beginners can enjoy the "Forest of Learning" in the guide-only area of the park in about two hours.
Nasu Heisei no Mori
  • Address 3254 Takaku Hei, Takaku Hei, Nasu-cho, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture (Nasu Heisei no Mori Field Center) MAP
  • Direction Approx. 50 min. by car from JR Nasu Shiobara Station
  • Business hours Regular hours: 9:00-16:30, May, July, August: 9:00-17:00 (Field Center)
  • Closed Wednesdays (if Wednesday is a national holiday, closed the following day)
  • Admission Fee Admission free (fee-based programs available)
    *Guided walks are available for a fee, advance reservations required
  • TEL 0287-74-6808
  • Parking Free of charge

MAP

Hoshino Resorts facilities nearby
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The information in this article is current as of the date of the update. Please check before visiting as they are subject to change.