Located in the northern part of Tochigi Prefecture, Nasu Town is a tourist destination renowned for its rich natural beauty.
From majestic mountains and historic hot springs to charming rural landscapes, Nasu offers a variety of captivating scenery.
In this article, we will introduce some recommended spots where you can fully enjoy the natural beauty of Nasu Town. Please use this as a reference for your travels.
About the Nature of Nasu Town
Nasu Town is known in Japan as a place where you can enjoy abundant nature despite being only about 2 hours away from the capital city, Tokyo.
The Nasu Mountains tower in the northwest, while the Nasu Plateau stretches across the southern slopes. Each season offers a different landscape: cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and snowy scenes in winter.
Due to its rich natural environment, the town is home to various wildlife such as monkeys, wild boars, and deer.
In summer, one can also spot insects like beetles, dragonflies, and butterflies.
The diverse range of activities that can be enjoyed amidst nature adds to its allure, including camping, gyro rides, and kayaking.
For more details about Nasu Town, please read the full article.
Introduction of Recommended Spots in Nasu Town
Here are some recommended spots where you can fully enjoy the natural beauty of Nasu Town. Be sure to visit them!
Nasu Heisei no Mori
Nasu Heisei no Mori, a part of the former Nasu Imperial Villa grounds, offers a splendid spot for forest bathing.
This vast 540-hectare forest is divided into two areas: “Fureai no Mori” (Interactive Forest), where visitors can freely stroll and enjoy various nature experiences, and “Manabi no Mori” (Learning Forest), which emphasizes environmental conservation and restricts free access to guided walks.
The Nasu Heisei no Mori Field Center, the hub facility of the forest, offers various programs, including guided walks.
It is recommended for first-time visitors to make use of this center.
A place where you can see different plants and creatures each season is its charming appeal.
Komadome Falls
In the “Fureai no Mori” (Interactive Forest) area, there is Komadome Falls, known as Nasu’s primary waterfall.
This two-tiered waterfall measures approximately 3 meters wide with a drop of about 20 meters, and the water’s color in the upper and lower pools is remarkably beautiful and mystical.
The surrounding mountains, covered with trees, change their appearance with the seasons. Especially during autumn, visitors can enjoy the contrast between the red and yellow tinted valley and the clear blue beauty of the waterfall.
| Facility Name： | Nasu Heisei no Mori |
| Address： | 3254 Takakuhei, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture |
| Details： | https://nasuheisei-f.jp/enfc/ |
Mount Chausu
Mount Chausu is the highest peak in the Nasu mountain range, standing at an elevation of 1,915 meters. It is an active volcano that still emits smoke.
From the summit, you can enjoy a magnificent 360-degree panoramic view. The hike to the summit is relatively accessible, making it popular with both novice and experienced climbers. For those not confident in their climbing abilities, a ropeway is available up to the 9th station.
In spring and summer, you can enjoy fresh greenery, while autumn offers vibrant foliage.
Despite being a low mountain, it’s reassuring to hike with appropriate gear.
Mountain weather can change quickly, so it’s advisable to prepare rain gear, warm clothing, and comfortable shoes. Additionally, there are no toilets on Mount Chausu, so it’s recommended to use facilities before hiking. The ropeway may suspend operations in strong winds, so checking the website in advance is advisable.
| Facility Name： | Mount Chausu |
| Address： | Yumoto, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture |
| Details： | https://www.nasu-ropeway.jp/attraction/ |
Sessho-seki
Near Nasu-Yumoto Onsen in Nasu Town lies the lava known as “Sessho-seki“.
This scenic spot features scattered rocks across its rugged landscape, permeated by the smell of sulfur, creating a unique atmosphere.
The area around Sessho-seki emits volcanic gas, leading ancient observers to believe that the stones caused death to animals that approached, thus earning its name which means “killing stone”.
Ropes are tied around the stones where animals have perished as a form of respect, with annual ceremonies to replace these ropes.
Legend has it that Sessho-seki is the transformed figure of the nine-tailed fox defeated during the Heian period.
In March 2022, the stone split in two, sparking discussions that the nine-tailed fox had returned.
If you enjoy mysteries and historical sites, be sure to visit.
| Facility Name： | Sessho-seki |
| Address： | 182 Yumoto, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture |
| Details： | https://www.mlit.go.jp/tagengo-db/en/R2-00679.html |
Tutsuji Suspension Bridge
The Tsutsuji Suspension Bridge is a 130-meter long and 38-meter high suspension bridge located in Nasu-Yumoto.
Located near the “Sessho-seki” introduced earlier, it offers views of Nasu’s majestic mountains as a backdrop from atop the bridge.
With its design allowing a view directly below from the middle of the bridge, it provides a thrilling experience.
Visitors can enjoy fresh greenery in spring and summer, and autumn foliage in the fall.
Hachiman Azalea Grove
The Hachiman Azalea Grove is located just across the suspension bridge.
The azaleas are typically in full bloom from mid to late May.
It is said to have 200,000 azalea plants spread over 23 hectares, offering a spectacular view of pink flowers when they are in full bloom.
This area has been selected as one of the “100 Best Fragrant Landscapes” by the Japanese Ministry of the Environment and is also included in Tochigi Prefecture’s “100 Best Scenic Spots” for its abundant natural beauty.
It’s a valuable spot worth visiting, especially during the peak blooming season of the azaleas.
| Facility Name： | Tutsuji Suspension Bridge |
| Address： | Yumoto, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture |
| Details： | https://www.nasu-ropeway.jp/enjoy/11# |
Nasu Onsen
Nasu is famous for its hot springs, attracting many tourists.
After the discovery of the original source of Nasu Onsen, Shika no Yu, numerous other hot springs were subsequently found, offering a variety of bathing experiences.
Each hot spring has different properties and benefits, making a hot spring tour enjoyable.
Additionally, nearby there are hot spring towns and historical sites, perfect for a stroll and hot spring hopping.
Shika no Yu
Shika no Yu is the original source of Nasu Onsen and has a history spanning over 1,300 years.
The name is derived from a legend where a wounded deer healed its injuries in the hot spring.
The water is sulfuric and is said to be effective for skin diseases, gynecological disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, and fatigue recovery.
The hot spring temperatures are relatively high, ranging from 41°C, 42°C, 43°C, 44°C, 46°C, and 48°C (48°C is not available in the women’s bath), allowing visitors to choose a bath at their preferred temperature.
| Facility Name： | Shika no Yu |
| Address： | 181 Yumoto, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture |
| Details： | https://www.nasukogen.org/nasuonsen/# |
For more details about Nasu Onsen, please refer to this article.
PlaceToBe NasuMachi
“PlaceToBe NasuMachi” is an accommodation facility located in Nasu Town.Located in the central area, it offers excellent access to the tourist spots introduced above.
A river flows nearby, providing the soothing sounds of running water.
Surrounded by trees, the cottage allows guests to fully enjoy the nature of Nasu Town.
It is the perfect facility for enjoying both the natural beauty and sightseeing in Nasu Town.
You can make reservations from the link below.
Why not consider staying at PlaceToBe NasuMachi for your accommodation?
| Facility Name： | PlaceToBe NasuMachi |
| Address： | 3511-14 Takakuotsu, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture |
| Details： | https://placetobe.tokyo/en/ |
Summary
This article introduced spots in Nasu Town where you can experience the natural beauty and enjoy nature.
Nasu Town offers charming landscapes throughout the seasons, from majestic mountains to historic hot springs and rural scenery.
It is an ideal destination for those who wish to be healed by nature or enjoy outdoor activities.
We encourage you to visit Nasu Town and experience the splendor of its nature firsthand.
