Nature in Tochigi
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Nikko: Ice hiking in the hidden valley
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- Nikko is not all about World Heritage Site like Nikko Toshogu Shrine! It is also home to a vast park across Tochigi, Fukushima and Gunma prefectures with a total area of 114,908 hectares including mountains, waterfalls, marshlands and forests. Out of the many falls in Nikko, there is a hidden narrow ravine, the Unryu Keikoku or the “Cloud Dragon Valley” which lies in the depth of the mountains of Nikko where its rare icefalls can only be seen for few weeks in winter. Its spectacular view of 100 meter wide ice wall and as high as 10 meter icicles are a true beauty of nature that can only be reached by hiking. Unryu Keikoku “Cloud Dragon Valley” Unryu Keikoku is a generic name of the ravine that starts halfway up Mt. Nyhohozan, one of the three main mountains in northern part of Nikko. It is on the headwater of Inari river hidden in the depths of the ravine in the unexplored area and to get there, there are no clear hiking trails. Entrance to the “unknown” world of the hidden Unryu Keikoku Many of us might have heard of Kegon no Taki (Kegon Waterfall) one of the most famous Nikko’s falls located at Nikko National Park.However, did you know that there is a breathtaking waterfall in the hidden depths of Unryu Keikoku with spectacular view when it's frozen in winter?It's a winter wonderland with multiple frozen waterfalls creating thousands of hanging icicles and wide ice walls enough to do ice climb, attracting many experienced hikers and ice climbing enthusiasts. ©NaturePlanet Frozen meets flowing, going over the river to head to the falls ©NaturePlanet Ice climbing over the icefalls Unlike Kegon Waterfall where there is only a single fall, Unryu Keikoku has various forms of falls and each one is different and unique in its appearance in winter. In the deepest area of the ravine lies the main waterfall, Unryu waterfall (Unryu-baku) which looks like a dragon going up into the sky. ©NaturePlanet Close up of the Unryu waterfall (Unryu-baku) and its view from a distance Once entering the ravine, Tomoshirazu waterfall will come into the sight. This is literally translated as “I can’t be bothered about my friends” in the sense that its trail is narrow and dangerous that you have to mind your own business and couldn’t be bothered to help your friends. ©NaturePlanet Tomoshirazu waterfall Tsubame Iwa (sparrow rock) with giant icicles in the arena With the increased number of hikers, the mountain trails have been paved a lot but there is no “correct” way to get to the icefalls. Therefore, at your own risk, hikers can hike up in anyways like taking a detour by going up the hill instead of taking the winding icy trail. 12point crampons, better to have more points to keep you safe and easier to tackle the steep valley walls Winterwonderland hike Icicles and the river flowing beneath it Its trailhead is located about 20-minute drive from Nikko Station and is entirely covered with ice and snow. Therefore, all hikers must bring three types of sacred artifacts: crampons, helmets and trekking poles, for safety reasons. Overall hiking is about 10km, between 5 to 6 hours, with approximately 400m of elevation gained and lost during the hike.The icefalls are hidden in the depth of the ravine and as you get closer to the falls, the trail will get even more icy so putting on crampons is a must. There are many places to take photos with the falls, however, watch out for sudden fall of rocks and icicles from above. Ofcourse, there are no toilets and convenience store to pick up food and drinks in between the hike, so don’t forget to pack well. Solo hike or Tour There are two ways to go hiking, one is going alone and the other is to go on a tour. Like going “into the unknown”, the icefalls are in the depth of the ravine in the hidden region. Unless you are familiar with the area and are experienced hiker with all the appropriate gears, we recommend you to take the tour. There are a couple of tours that specialize in this icefalls. Say hello to these two wonderful guys, Korosuke and Koudai. Korosuke (left) Kodai (right) They specialize in outdoor activities in Nikko and the nearby regions all year round, from hiking to kayaking to many more. These two experts will take you to the fall safely. Depending on the levels of the participants, the route may change, however, if you a good hiker with strong legs, they will take a detour by going up steep snowy hills. If you join their tour, participants can rent crampons, helmets, and trekking pole for free, so all you need is to wear warm, waterproof hiking clothes and good hiking shoes with backpacks filled with lunch and water. Sneakers and jeans are prohibited. If you want to know more about the tour, contact them at http://www.nature-planet.com/ If you are ready to join this adventure, book directly through here https://en.activityjapan.com/publish/plan/1584 Korosuke in the front followed by his tour guests Required Equipment Waterproof hiking shoes, water, lunch, sunscreen, warm clothing layers, warm hat, rain wear, a backpackHelmet, crampons and trekking pole is a must (if you go on a tour, they have rentals) Access The only way to access the trailhead from Nikko station or Tobu Nikko station is unfortunately by cars only. If you are planning to go alone, ask the taxi driver to take you. From Tokyo, there are several ways to go to Nikko and Tobu Nikko station by train.①From Tokyo Station Note of caution, there is no bullet train (shinkansen) that goes directly to Nikko. So you will need to change trains. And Nikko station and Tobu Nikko station is only 5 minute walk apart. From Tokyo station to Utsunomiya Station, take the bullet train (Hokuriku Shinkansen). Change to Nikko Line to go to Nikko station.※bullet train price5,470 yen (unreserved seat) 5,800 yen (reserved seat)※770 yen from Utsunomiya station to Nikko station via Nikko lineThere is one more way to go to Nikko from Tokyo station but this route requires to change train twice. Unless familiar with the trains, it’s best to take the other way.Take the bullet train, Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo station to Koyama station. Change to JR Ryomo line to Tochigi Station. Finally, take Tobu Nikko line to Tobu Nikko Station. ※bullet train price4,580 yen(unreserved seat) 4,910 yen (reserved seat)※1,660 yen from Koyama station to Tochigi station※650 yen from Tochigi station to Tobu Nikko station②From Shinjuku Station The limited express Spacia will directly take you from Shinjuku station to Tobu Nikko station, but it's only 4 trains per day. Please see the train schedule from the following linkhttps://www.tobu.co.jp/foreign/en/using/timetable.html③From Asakusa StationLimited express Revaty (Kegon) will directly take you from Asakusa station to Tobu Nikko station. This station has the most number of direct trains that go to Tobu Nikko station without having trouble of changing lines. Some even have a plug to charge your phone for free. Please see the train schedule from the following linkhttps://www.tobu.co.jp/foreign/en/using/timetable.html※If you are joining the icefall hiking tour, you must get on the 6:30 am train from Asakusa in order for you to get in time. This is the only train that will take you to Tobu Nikko station on time for the tour. The tour usually leaves Tobu Nikko station at 8:30am. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Tochigi
- 29. January. 2020
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Kirifuri Kogen
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- Just eight kilometers north of the of beautiful Nikko city is where you’ll find Kisuge-daira, a lush highland nestled on the side of Mt Akanagi. Breathtaking mountain range views, an altitude of 1300-1600 meters and home to the picturesque Kirifuri Falls, a hike around the Kirifuri Kogen is unforgettable. Lush green in summer, dotted with colorful floral displays in spring and awash in fiery shades of red and orange in autumn it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in witnessing Japan’s natural beauty first hand.
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- Tochigi
- 16. January. 2019
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Deep Japan: 7 of the Country’s Best Hikes
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- If you’re looking for a city escape, or want to really embrace the untouched beauty of Japan, be sure to add a mountain hike to your itinerary. The landscape of the country is incredibly volcanic, which makes for an otherworldly scenery and fertile ground for diverse foliage. Here are just a handful of the nation’s most stunning treks. Kirifuri Kogen Kirifuri Kogen Just eight kilometers north of the of beautiful Nikko city is where you’ll find Kisuge-daira, a lush highland nestled on the side of Mt Akanagi. Breathtaking mountain range views, an altitude of 1300-1600 meters and home to the picturesque Kirifuri Falls, a hike around the Kirifuri Kogen is unforgettable. Lush green in summer, dotted with colorful floral displays in spring and awash in fiery shades of red and orange in autumn it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in witnessing Japan’s natural beauty first hand. Takachiho No Mine Takachiho No Mine Positioned in the northern corner of Miyazaki Prefecture sits Takachiho, an area rich with mystical history and a stunning mountain called Takachiho-no-mine. Standing at 1574 meters tall, the mountain is a popular hiking destination for those who want to explore the country’s more unique landscape, complete with moon-like volcanic rocks. It may not be the easiest hike, but from the summit, the views of the neighboring city of Miyakonojo and the smoking silhouette of Mt. Sakurajima in the distance make it all worthwhile. Nishizawa Ravine Nishizawa Ravine Yamanashi is home to some of Japan’s most beautiful hikes, making it an excellent day or weekend trip from Tokyo or Chiba. If you only have the time to go on one adventure, make the journey to Nishizawa Ravine. Dotted with waterfalls this looped walking trail is relatively quiet, incredibly picturesque and easy for casual hikers too. About 10 kilometers in total, the hike takes between three to five hours and is less than a two-hour journey from central Tokyo. Mt. Takao Mt. Takao Another lush city escape is the ever popular Mt. Takao. Only around 50-minutes from Shinjuku by train it’s one of the more leisurely day trips from the city, but offers some incredible natural scenery, including views of Mt. Fuji on a clear day, an impressive traditional temple and a variety walking paths to explore the mountainside. There is a network of different trails that weave their way up the side of Takao for those of varying hiking levels. The number one hike is the most accessible. Here, autumn is the most beautiful time of the year, but be warned it’s also the most popular. Dewa Sanzan Dewa Sanzan Known in English as ‘the three mountains of Dewa’ Dewa Sanzan is a family of three sacred mountains located in Yamagata Prefecture. Each mountain represents a different stage of life; birth (Haguro-san), death (Gas-san) and rebirth (Yudono-san), and each features a shrine at the mountain peak. In winter the mountains are rather inaccessible given Yamagata’s heavy snowfall, however during spring, autumn and summer they’re a popular and stunning hiking destination for both pilgrims and tourists. The Jomonsugi Trail The Jomonsugi Trail This trail is named after Yakushima’s favorite attraction, Jomonsugui, a wide cedar tree that’s estimated to be somewhere between 2000-7200 years old. Dating all the way back to the Jomon period, and discovered by loggers in the Edo-period, today hikers, adventurers, and tourists make the pilgrimage to the top of Miyanoura mountain to marvel at this time-defying phenomena. Mt. Fuji Mt. Fuji There’s little to say about Mt Fuji, that hasn’t been recited time and time before. In the warmer months Mt. Fuji is a popular hiking route for countless visitors who often make the overnight journey to the top to admire the unforgettable view of the sunrise. Sitting at 3776 meters, it’s Japan’s highest mountain peak and is inhabitable in the colder months. If you do plan climbing it’s worth noting that the main trails the Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya Trails only open between July and September. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 16. January. 2019
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The Most Scenic Lakes in Japan
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- An archipelago of nearly 7000 islands, the country’s coastline is perhaps more iconic than its inland lakes. Treat yourself to stunning vistas and breathtaking landscapes at one of these scenic lakes. Although it can often necessitate a modest trek, getting beyond urban Japan has its own rewards. Making the expedition to one of Japan’s scenic lakes is a fine start. Lake Biwa Lake Biwa One of the world’s oldest lakes, Lake Biwa, named its resemblance—in shape—to the biwa lute carried by the goddess Benzaiten, and the Omi region (the former name of Shiga Prefecture where the lake lies) were home to the earliest civilizations in the country and have long been celebrated in song and poetry. JR's Biwako Line begins in Kyoto and deposits travelers at various points around the lake, including Omihachiman, a city home to merchant mansions and stone walkways along the Hachimanbori Canal, and, near Hikone Station, Hikone Castle, a well-preserved castle with views of the lake. Lake Motosuko Lake Motosuko One of the bodies of water that make up the Fuji Five Lakes, a group of lakes at the base of Mt. Fuji, Lake Motosuko is perhaps most famous for its iconic view of the mountain—if you’ve ever wondered where the view of Mt. Fuji on the 1000 yen note was captured, it was Motosuko. There are several hiking trails in the region, heading out to spots with great views of the surrounding landscape. Despite its scenic beauty, Motosuko is underappreciated; and it feels thousands of miles away from the bustling metropolis on its doorstep. Lake Towada Lake Towada Located in an active volcanic caldera in Towada National Park, Lake Towada has become a hotspot for travelers in northern half of Japan. Convenient even without all the gear, Towada is a great place to camp and canoe. Around Utarube, outfitters and campgrounds welcome travelers of all skill levels to trip out onto the lake and environs. For a truly bizarre side trip from Utarube, venture east to the village of Shingo and its Tomb of Jesus Christ. It was in Shingo that Yamane Kiku, an archeologist, decided that Jesus Christ hid out after fleeing the Middle East and dying of natural causes a century later. Lake Okushima Lake Okushima Created by the construction of the Shimagawa Dam, Lake Okushima is worth the trip from the Shima Onsen area. After arriving by bus in Shima Onsen from Nakanojo Station, the walk to the lake takes about a half hour. The lake’s crystal blue waters are fed by the same streams that run through the hot springs resort. Lake Chuzenji Lake Chuzenji Getting to this scenic lake near Nikko involves a journey up the Irohazaka, one of the twistiest roads in the country, and a ride on the Akechidaira Cable Car. There are events year round and the scenery is vastly different depending on what season you arrive in. The lake is drained by the mighty Kegon Falls, one of the most scenic waterfalls in the world. Lake Mashu Lake Mashu Hokkaido’s Lake Mashu is a young, clear lake that fills the Mashu caldera. To the Ainu, the aboriginal people of this northern island, this was the Lake of the Devil, perhaps from the blankets of mist and fog that frequently cloak the lake in a mysterious haze. The lake and the observatories around it are best visited by car. The landscape is particularly stunning in winter, although the trip out is made treacherous by snowy conditions. ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Japan
- 21. June. 2018
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Lake Chuzenji
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- Situated at the foot of Mount Nantai, is Lake Chuzenji, a scenic lake that’s arguably one of Nikko’s most breathtaking natural sites. Originally the lake was formed from an eruption by Mount Nantai, almost 20,000 years ago. To this day the surrounding areas of the lake feel relatively untouched except for the eastern end of the lake where Chuzenji Onsen, a small hot spring town was built. From hiking and exploring to relaxing in one of the local hot springs, Chuzenji and its neighboring area boasts a lot of options for those wanting to spend a day in this naturally stunning area. Lake Chuzenji The name Mount Nantai literally translates to man's body mountain” however it also goes by the name Futara-san. An iconic Nikko landmark, the 2,486 meter high mountain towers high over the lake and surrounding areas that are visible as far as the Pacific coast 100 km away on a clear day. Incredibly popular with hikers and mountain climbers, Nantai is home to a network of trekking paths of varying degrees of difficulty. If you want to hit the top, the trail to the summit begins through a gate at Futarasan Shrine's Chugushi, aka its middle shrine. The gate is open to the public from the 5th of May until late October when the weather provides safe climbing conditions. Lake Chuzenji Technically to this day the mountain is still considered ‘active’, a title it was given in September 2008, when the Japan Meteorological Agency assessed Nantai’s status following research by Toyama University. However evidence shows that the last eruption occurred around 7,000 years ago. If that doesn’t deter you from visiting the mountain (and it shouldn’t) then you’re in for a pretty incredible sightseeing experience. Make your way up to the lake lookout point, at Hangetsuyama, a mountain at the south-eastern corner. From this vantage point you can get a full view of Mount Nantai in all of its panoramic glory. Ideally the best time of the year to get there is during koyo (autumn) season in October and November when the Lake, Mount Nantai and its surrounding forests transform from a lush green to fiery shades of gold, orange and red. Lake Chuzenji ©NAVITIME JAPAN. Travel Info Check out our travel tips to make your trip better!
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- Tochigi
- 27. November. 2017
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Recommended spots
132 results
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- Kegon Falls
- Waterfall
- Tochigi Pref. Nikkoushi Chugushi 2479-2
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- Lake Chuzenji
- Lake
- Tochigi Pref. Nikkoushi Chugushi
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- Ryuzu Waterfall
- Waterfall
- Tochigi Pref. Nikkoushi Chugushi
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- Numappara Marshland
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4.037 Reviews - Plateau
- Tochigi Prefecture Nasushiobara City
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The My family enjoyed the easy stroll on the trail down to the marsh and on the board walk around the marsh. It was cloudy the day we went but still pleasant. Even after heavy rains the night before...
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- Kinu-numa Swamp
- Lake
- Tochigi Pref. Nikkoushi Kawamata
Tochigi Main Areas
Most visits to Tochigi revolve around Nikko, a small city home to the spectacular, lavishly decorated Toshogu Shrine and Nikko National Park with its mountains, lakes, waterfalls, onsen, and wild monkeys. Neighboring Oku-Nikko is an extension of the fantastic scenery famous for its autumn leaves, while Tochigi’s capital, Utsunomiya, is the only place in the world where you can find oya stone beautifully exhibited in temples and the Oya History Museum.
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