Nasu (Tochigi)
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5 Activity Experience Spots to Fully Enjoy the Nature and Culture of Nasu Highlands

The Nasu Highlands show a completely different face in each of the four seasons. With good access from the city center, it is a popular destination for a wide range of generations, from couples to families. If you are wondering where to go for sightseeing in Nasu, here are some recommended activity spots, including places where you can stroll while feeling the power of nature and historic hot springs.

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

A hot spring that represents Nasu Yumoto. Please note that you cannot use soap to wash your body.
A representative hot spring of Nasu-Yumoto. Please note that you cannot use soap to wash your body.

A historic hot spring opened about 1,400 years ago. It is said that a hunter who missed his shot at a deer followed it and witnessed the deer healing its wounds in this hot spring. Because it was discovered by a deer, it was named "Shika no Yu" (Deer Hot Spring). It has long been used as a hot spring resort, and it is also known as a place where Matsuo Basho stopped during the first half of his "Narrow Road to the Deep North" journey. The charming wooden architecture was rebuilt in 1941. You can feel the passage of time from the atmosphere of the hot spring resort that has been passed down to this day.

An experience you can only have here, with unique bathing methods

A hot spring with different temperatures. It is said that there used to be a 52℃ hot spring. The water is soft, so it is easy to enter even at high temperatures.
A hot spring with different temperatures. It is said that there used to be a 52°C spring. The water is soft, making it easy to enter even at high temperatures.

Here you can experience "Kaburi-yu" (dousing hot water over the head) and "Tan-netsu-yoku" (short-term hot spring bathing). "Kaburi-yu" is a bathing method that enhances the effects of the hot spring and is rare in Japan. There are six types of bathtubs with temperatures of 41, 42, 43, 44, 46, and 48°C (the women's bath does not have 48°C but has a spacious bathtub). You can start from your preferred temperature, but avoid long soaks. Try to keep your baths short and take breaks in between. The cloudy water is a sulfur spring. It is said that it makes your body feel warm and cozy after bathing because it stimulates the intestines. After enjoying the hot spring, don't forget to buy souvenirs such as bath salts and commemorative bathing towels.

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This is a place many people still visit for hot spring cures. Even if you go for sightseeing, I recommend it because you can experience the hot spring cure culture. The wooden architecture built over the river, which is packed with many years of history, is also a highlight.

Nasu Onsen Shika no Yu
  • Address181 Yumoto, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture MAP
  • Access30 minutes by car from JR Kuroiso Station
  • Bus accessTake a bus from JR Kuroiso Station, get off at "Nasu Yumoto Onsen," and walk for about 4 minutes.
  • Business hours8:00–18:00 (Last admission 17:30)
  • ClosedOpen every day
  • Admission FeeAdults 500 yen, elementary school students 300 yen, infants free
  • TEL0287-76-3098
  • ParkingFree

A famous mountain in Nasu where you can fully enjoy nature and which is easy to climb even for beginners

It is also certified as one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains. The magnificent view from the summit is a pleasure that can only be experienced by those who climb it.
It is also recognized as one of the 100 Famous Japanese Mountains. The magnificent view from the summit is a pleasure that can only be experienced by those who climb it.

Mount Chausu is the main peak of the Nasu mountain range. It is an active volcano that still spews white volcanic smoke today. From spring to early summer, you can enjoy the lush green foliage, and in autumn, the mountain is covered in vibrant fall colors. It is a mountain that is easy for beginners to tackle, with various courses ranging from casual hikes to those for serious climbers, allowing you to choose according to your available time and skill level. By using the Nasu Ropeway, you can reach the summit station at the 9th station in one go. You will be thrilled by the aerial walk as you ascend the mountain.

Don't miss the spots around Mt. Chausu, which are packed with highlights.

Nasu Highlands Observatory is also known as the "Lovers' Sanctuary." It is a memorable place registered as the 100th in the country and has become a famous spot for proposals.
Nasu Kogen Observatory is also known as a "Lovers' Sanctuary." It is a memorable spot registered as the 100th in the country and has become a famous location for marriage proposals.

Even though it is easy to climb, be sure to prepare thoroughly before your hike. Depending on the day, there can be a difference in temperature between the day and morning/evening, and it can feel chilly. Don't forget to take measures against the cold. It is convenient to bring something to wear over your clothes, such as a thin cardigan.
At the foot of the mountain on the way to the trailhead, there are plenty of tourist spots such as the Sessho-seki stone, which is associated with many legends including the Nine-Tailed Fox, and the Nasu Onsen Shrine. On a clear day, you can get a panoramic view of the Kanto Plain from the Nasu Highlands Observatory, located at an altitude of 1,048 meters. Be sure to stop by the surrounding tourist spots before your climb and enjoy the various scenery.

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It takes about 50 minutes on foot from the summit station to the summit of Mount Chausu. Since there are rugged rocky areas unique to a volcano, be sure to wear hiking boots (trekking shoes).

Mount Chausu
  • AddressYumoto, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture MAP
  • AccessApprox. 50 minutes by car from JR Nasushiobara Station (to Nasu Ropeway Sanroku Station)
  • Admission FeeFree
  • TEL0287-76-2619 (Nasu Town Tourism Association)
  • ParkingFree (Nasu Ropeway Free Parking Lot)
  • Notes*Please check the official website for Nasu Ropeway fares, etc.
    (https://www.nasu-ropeway.jp/)

    *Please check the official website for Nasu Ropeway fares, etc.

Experience horseback riding at a ranch where you can feel the refreshing breeze typical of Nasu.

You can choose from two types of courses: 1 km (approx. 30 minutes) and 2 km (approx. 60 minutes).
You can choose from two types of courses: 1 km (approx. 30 minutes) and 2 km (approx. 60 minutes).

Located in the hilly area of the Nasunogahara plain, this ranch is colored by rows of cherry trees in spring and the autumn leaves of dawn redwoods in autumn. In the horse trekking experience, which even beginners can enjoy with peace of mind, you can go for an outdoor ride while being gently swayed on horseback, gazing at the magnificent mountain range stretching from the Nikko mountains to Mount Nasu. There are also "interaction experience" courses such as walking a horse, brushing, and feeding. There is also a restaurant on the premises where you can enjoy lunch boxes featuring "vegetable curry" and "taco rice" made with fresh local ingredients. You can also enjoy a refreshing tea time with brown sugar lattes or homemade lemonade.

Enjoy a rich time interacting with horses and having lunch.

Watching a horse being brushed so comfortably is heartwarming.
Watching a horse being brushed so comfortably is heartwarming.

For those who want to enjoy interacting with horses more casually, there are "interaction experiences" where you can take a horse for a walk, brush them, or feed them, as well as a "lead horse course" exclusively for children. The appeal lies in being able to choose the experience that suits your physical strength, age, and travel schedule.
The comfortable grounds also feature a restaurant where you can enjoy lunch boxes such as "farm vegetable curry" and "taco rice" made with fresh local ingredients. On sunny weekends, "kitchen cars" also appear under the blue sky. You can spend a refreshing tea time with brown sugar lattes, homemade lemonade, and more.

NASU FARM VILLAGE
  • Address1298-1 Sabara, Otawara City, Tochigi Prefecture MAP
  • Business hours11:00–17:00
  • ClosedWednesdays, 2nd and 4th Thursdays (irregular holidays may apply)
  • Admission FeeHorseback riding experience 1km, approx. 30-minute course: 9,700 yen
  • TEL0287-54-0009
  • NotesPlease check the website for details such as riding restrictions and restaurant/cafe business hours.

A beautiful emerald green waterfall cascading down in Nasu.

You can look down at the beautiful Komadome Falls from the observation deck.
You can look down at the beautiful Komadome Falls from the observation deck.

Komadome Falls is said to be so beautiful that even horses would stop in their tracks. Previously, it was overgrown with greenery and could only be seen after the leaves had fallen, but with the opening of "Nasu Heisei-no-Mori Forest," a waterfall observation deck was built, allowing you to enjoy a panoramic view of its powerful appearance all year round.
Pay attention to the clear blue waterfall, which stands out in contrast to the seasonal nature such as fresh green leaves and autumn foliage. If you want to see the flow of water up close, bring a telescope or camera to feel even closer to the waterfall. From "Komadome Hill," a short walk from the waterfall, you can also view the magnificent Nasu mountain range.

Be truly healed by the sound of water echoing in the surroundings.

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

After seeing the waterfall, try walking along the "Nasu Nature Research Path Shirato River Line," a new trail that opened on April 1, 2021. It has also become easier to get to the "Yahata Azalea Park," where 200,000 beautiful flowers bloom. Since "Kita Onsen" is nearby, it is also recommended to stop by to soothe your tired body.
It is about a 40-minute walk from the Nasu Heisei-no-Mori Field Center. You can enjoy a stroll surrounded by the untouched nature of Nasu while heading toward the waterfall. If you are short on time, you can also use the parking lot near the waterfall.

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Before Nasu Heisei-no-Mori Forest opened, it was called a phantom waterfall because it was blocked by trees. The sight of the cascading waterfall, along with the seasonal scenery, is a must-see.

Komadome Falls (inside Nasu Heisei-no-mori Forest)
  • Address3254 Takaku-hei, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture (Nasu Heisei-no-mori Field Center) MAP
  • AccessApprox. 50 minutes by car from JR Nasushiobara Station
  • Business hours9:00–16:30; until 17:00 in May, August, and October
  • ClosedWednesdays (if a public holiday, closed the following day)
  • Admission FeeFree admission (paid programs available)
    *Guided walks are paid and require advance reservation
  • TEL0287-74-6808
  • ParkingFree

A place where you can feel the nature of Nasu in every season.

In the forest where rich nature remains, you can observe natural beech forests and rare animals.
In the forest where rich nature remains, you can observe natural beech forests and rare animals.

This is a nature park at the foot of the Nasu mountains where you can fully enjoy forest bathing. Opened in 2011, this area, which was previously off-limits, is now a place where you can experience rich nature.
In the park, we hold "Guided Walks" where you can stroll through the forest with staff members called interpreters who know the surrounding nature inside and out. You can walk through the forest while listening to stories about the highlights unique to that season and day, as well as the creatures that live in the forest. Enjoy strolling through 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.

Make reservations for guided walks and more here. Ask the staff about the scenery and highlights you can see that day.
Make reservations for guided walks and other activities here. Ask the staff about the scenery and highlights you can see that day.

At the Field Center on the premises, you can learn about the history of the park and information that will lead to interesting discoveries during your forest walk. We also recommend participating in the 30-minute free mini-program/mini-guide, which is held twice a day. There is also a library corner and a rotating cafe during the green season. (Please check the website for the cafe's schedule.)
"Nasu Heisei-no-mori Forest" allows you to feel the forest nurtured by nature and human activity. Please come and visit to feel the refreshing air of Nasu. Please come and visit to feel the refreshing air of Nasu.

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There are three main types of guided tours with an interpreter! These include the "Children's Forest Exploration Course" for ages 4 and up, the "Inquiry Course" for fun and deep exploration of nature's wonders, and the "Relaxing Yosasa Shindo Course" for a laid-back experience among giant trees and massive rocks.

Nasu Heisei-no-mori Forest
  • Address3254 Takaku-hei, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture (Nasu Heisei-no-mori Field Center) MAP
  • AccessApprox. 50 minutes by car from JR Nasushiobara Station
  • Business hoursRegular / 9:00–16:30, May, July, August / 9:00–17:00
  • ClosedWednesdays (if a public holiday, closed the following day)
  • Admission FeeFree admission (paid programs available)
    *Guided walks are paid and require advance reservation
  • TEL0287-74-6808
  • ParkingFree

MAP

Nearby Hoshino Resorts facilities
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*The information provided is current as of the date of the article's update. Please check in advance as it may be subject to change.