Autumn Family Trip to Nasu: Enjoying Nature and Fall Foliage! A 2-Day, 1-Night Family Itinerary

Autumn is the Best Season in Nasu! Enjoy Fall Foliage and Nature

Autumn is the best season in Nasu.

Nasu, a highland area, experiences the arrival of autumn earlier than Tokyo, with cooler temperatures starting as early as September.

From October to November, the fall foliage reaches its peak, attracting numerous visitors to the region.

While Nasu is known as one of Japan’s premier villa destinations and often thought of as a getaway for adults, it’s also an ideal spot for families. Beyond its natural beauty, Nasu offers opportunities to explore history, tradition, and art, making it a great destination for children as well.

In this article, we’ll introduce a 2-day, 1-night itinerary for a family trip to Nasu in autumn!

What’s the Weather Like in Nasu During Autumn? Tips for Families on Clothing and Essentials

When planning a trip to Nasu in autumn, it’s important to remember that the weather changes significantly from September to November.

Though it’s all “autumn,” the temperatures vary greatly month by month.

In this section, we’ll break down the average temperatures and recommend suitable clothing for each month.

September Weather and Clothing

In September, Nasu enjoys mild daytime temperatures, but mornings and evenings can get quite chilly, sometimes dropping to around 10°C (50°F).

You might feel the cool air, especially at night.

During the day, a single shirt is usually enough, but it’s recommended to bring a light jacket, hoodie, or cardigan for layering to adjust to the temperature changes.

October Weather and Clothing

October is when the fall foliage reaches its peak, making it one of the best seasons in Nasu.

The average temperature during this time is about 19°C (66°F), which is about 4°C (7°F) lower than in Tokyo.

In the city, you can comfortably wear a long-sleeve top during the day, but it’s wise to prepare a scarf or jacket for the cooler mornings and evenings.

Since the popular fall foliage spots are located in mountainous and highland areas, they tend to be even colder than the city, so bringing a knit sweater or coat is recommended.

Additionally, weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so don’t forget to pack rain gear.

November Weather and Clothing

In November, Nasu experiences a significant drop in temperature, with snow occurring in mountainous areas and temperatures sometimes dipping below freezing.

While it’s rare for snow to fall in the vicinity of Nasu-Shiobara Station or in the city, there can still be days that feel quite wintery.

Particularly from late November, the cold becomes more pronounced, with chilly mornings and evenings.

If you plan to visit Nasu in November, it’s advisable to bring sweaters and a thick coat. If you’re heading to the mountainous areas, a down jacket will provide added warmth and comfort.

Children’s Clothing and Essentials

When visiting Nasu with children in autumn, it’s important to prepare warm clothing and sturdy footwear.

If you plan on hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, make sure to bring comfortable, well-fitting shoes that your children are used to wearing.

Additionally, when visiting attractions like Nasu Animal Kingdom or Sesshoseki, which are located in highland areas, it’s recommended to be well-prepared for the cold.

In addition to down jackets or thick outerwear, having hats, gloves, and scarves will ensure that everyone stays warm and comfortable.

Recommended for Family Trips! 2-Day, 1-Night Autumn Itinerary in Nasu

In this section, we’ll introduce a 2-day, 1-night itinerary for enjoying autumn in Nasu with children.

Since traveling by car is the norm in Nasu, we’ll assume that a rental car will be used for both the first and second days.

This model itinerary is designed for those arriving at Nasu-Shiobara Station via the Tohoku Shinkansen and planning to rent a car locally.

For information on what is needed when renting a car, please refer to our previous article.

Geography and Access Guide to Nasu Town

In our previous article, we introduced Nasu Town as a place rich in attractions, including nature, history, cuisine, and...

nasupulse.com

2024.06.09

Now, let’s take a closer look at the itinerary!

Day 1: A Day to Enjoy the Autumn Foliage and Nature of Nasu

On the first day, enjoy the autumn scenery and nature of Nasu.

After arriving in Nasu from Tokyo, we’ll head straight to see the main attraction: the beautiful fall foliage.

Let’s also take the opportunity to enjoy the unique traditions and culture of Nasu, including spots like Sesshoseki and Nasu Onsen Shrine.

9:30 – Arrival in Nasu

Take the Tohoku Shinkansen, Nasuno No. 253, from Tokyo to Nasu.

Departing Tokyo Station at 8:28, you will arrive at Nasu-Shiobara Station at 9:32.

In just about an hour, you’ll arrive, making it convenient even for families with children.

After arrival, let’s rent a car near Nasu-Shiobara Station.

During the fall foliage season, it can get quite crowded, so it’s advisable to book your Shinkansen tickets and rental car in advance.

Note: This information is as of October 16, 2024. Please verify the schedule, as it may change.

10:30 – Enjoy the Stunning Views at Nasu Ropeway

Drive to the main highlight of this trip, the beautiful fall foliage spot.

It takes about 50 minutes by car from Nasu-Shiobara Station to the Nasu Ropeway. Since the area around the ropeway can get very crowded, it’s a good idea to stop for a restroom break or a convenience store along the way.

The Nasu Ropeway is a popular spot where families can easily enjoy the autumn leaves.

While the ride takes only about 4 minutes, the breathtaking views overlooking Mount Nasu are unique to this location.

After arriving at the ropeway’s summit station, you can freely enjoy activities like hiking Mount Chausu or climbing the observation deck.

It takes just under an hour to hike from the summit station to the top of Mount Chausu, making it perfect for beginners or families with children, and it’s a great opportunity for a first-time hiking experience.

Even if you don’t want to go on a full hike, you can casually enjoy nature by exploring the observation deck and the surrounding area.

According to the Nasu Ropeway’s website, hiking Mount Nasu is not recommended for children in lower elementary school grades, so choose activities that suit your child’s fitness and development level.

Since the highland area can be cooler and the weather can change rapidly, be sure to bring warm clothing and wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking.

12:00 – Lunchtime

There is no restaurant at the Nasu Ropeway summit station, but there is a shop selling curry and soba, which many visitors tend to use.

Alternatively, you can prepare your lunch in advance and enjoy a picnic near the summit or at the observation deck, which is highly recommended.

If you finish your walk and are heading back down, nearby restaurants such as Penny Lane Nasu and Aoki-ya (for udon and soba) are good options.

Regarding Penny Lane, it is introduced in detail here, although it is in Japanese.

14:00 – Sesshoseki (Killing Stone) and Nasu Onsen Shrine

In the afternoon, how about exploring Sesshoseki and Nasu Onsen Shrine to experience the culture and history of Nasu?

Sesshoseki is one of Nasu’s most famous tourist spots, designated as a national scenic site because the Edo-period haiku poet Matsuo Basho wrote verses about this place in his work Oku no Hosomichi (The Narrow Road to the Deep North).

The legend of the Nine-Tailed Fox, which dates back to the Heian period, is also well-known, making it a great opportunity to learn about the area’s history and traditions.

However, please note that hydrogen sulfide (sulfur) can be present around Sesshoseki, so it’s not recommended to visit with infants.

Nasu Onsen Shrine is a historically rich shrine said to have been established during the Asuka period in the 7th century.

The tale of Nasu Yoichi shooting the fan target during the Battle of Yashima in the Genpei War is very famous; it is said that Yoichi prayed at Nasu Onsen Shrine before successfully shooting the fan.

Additionally, the shrine grounds feature the “Sazare-ishi” (small stones) mentioned in the lyrics of the Japanese national anthem, which is popular as a power spot for blessings.

Since Sesshoseki and Nasu Onsen Shrine are located very close to each other, be sure to visit both.

There are several hot spring facilities nearby, so if you have extra time, enjoying a day-use bath is also recommended.

Facility Name	Nasu Onsen Shrine / Sesshoseki
Address	182 Yumoto, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture
Details	https://nasu-yuzen.jp/

18:00 – Dinner along Nasu Kaido

After finishing your sightseeing at Sesshoseki and Nasu Onsen Shrine, enjoy dinner along Nasu Kaido.

Along Nasu Kaido, the main street of Nasu, you can find a variety of restaurants ranging from chain establishments to local eateries, offering Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine.

Here are some family-friendly restaurants where you can enjoy dining with children.

Nasu’s Famous Restaurant! Gioia Mia

A famous restaurant in Nasu featured in numerous media outlets.

It is said that the Imperial Family visited this establishment while staying at the Nasu Imperial Villa.

You can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, mainly focusing on pizzas and pastas.

It’s recommended to order a variety of dishes and share them with the whole family.

Regarding Gioia Mia, it is introduced in detail here, although it is in Japanese.

Enjoy Steak at a Reasonable Price! Steak House Juraku

Steakhouse Juraku is a restaurant where you can enjoy “Tochigi Wagyu,” a brand of beef from Tochigi Prefecture.

Operated by “Gyuraku,” a long-established butcher shop with a history of 75 years, this restaurant offers authentic wagyu steak at reasonable prices.

Regarding Steakhouse Juraku, it is introduced in detail here, although it is in Japanese.

7:30 PM – Arrive at the cottage “PlaceToBe Nasu Machi”

After finishing dinner, let’s head to the cottage where you’ll be staying.

A whole cottage rental is highly recommended, as it allows the kids to play and make noise without disturbing anyone around.

This time, we would like to introduce PlaceToBe NasuMachi, located near Nasu Safari Park!

The cottage is conveniently located with easy access to the main areas of Nasu, surrounded by beautiful greenery.

There are two accommodation units: ToriCommons can accommodate up to 7 guests, while Kaon can host up to 5 guests.

Each unit is equipped with child-friendly amenities for infants, making it a perfect private cottage for families to enjoy together.

Details about PlaceToBe NasuMachi are available here, though it’s in Japanese.

Day 2: Create Lasting Memories at Interactive Facilities

On the second day, let’s visit interactive facilities to create unforgettable memories.

Taking plenty of photos and engaging in hands-on experiences at the ranch is sure to create lifelong memories!

10:00 AM – Nasu Rindo Lake Family Farm

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Nasu Rindo Lake Family Farm is a unique experience that combines a zoo and amusement park.

Although it has “farm” in its name, the facility features many attractions such as a Ferris wheel, maze, go-karts, and merry-go-rounds.

Of course, as a farm, you can also enjoy interactions with animals.

Experiences such as horseback riding, milking, feeding, and walking with animals offer precious memories that will last a lifetime.

Please check the official website for details, as some activities may have age restrictions.

Facility Name	Nasu Rindo Lake Family Farm
Address	414-2 Takakuhei, Nasu-machi, Nasu-gun, Tochigi Prefecture
Details	https://www.rindo.co.jp/

12:00 Lunch at the Farm

Nasu Rindo Lake Family Farm has several dining options available for lunch.

Within the park, you can choose from three restaurants: “Cantine,” “Midori-chan’s Jersey Milk Hall,” and “Mekke! Café,” allowing you to select based on your mood or menu preferences.

There are special dishes using Jersey milk and a barbecue buffet, making it hard to decide what to eat!

They also offer a wide variety of children’s meals, so families with small children can dine comfortably.

Don’t miss the fresh milk soft serve ice cream, as well as cheese and pudding made from the farm’s own dairy products!

The butter and ice cream made from the milk of Jersey cows raised on the farm are very popular and make great souvenirs.

14:00 Creating Memories at Trick Art Pia Nasu

Spending a day at Nasu Rindo Lake Family Farm is fantastic, but if you have some extra time, why not visit Trick Art Pia Nasu?

Trick Art Pia Nasu is an experiential art museum where you can enjoy fascinating trick art.

The facility consists of the “Trick Art Hall,” the “Trick Art Maze Hall,” and the “Michelangelo Hall,” each featuring different themes of trick art.

You can take many fun and intriguing photos using optical illusions, including pictures that seem to leap out of the artwork.

The entire area is designed to be an immersive trick art experience, complete with puzzle-solving quizzes, ensuring that visitors of all ages—from small children to adults—can have a great time at this museum.

Regarding Nasu Trick Art Pia, it is introduced in detail here, although it is in Japanese.

Facility Name	Trick Art Pia Nasu
Address	5760 Takaku-Ko, Nasu Town, Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture
Details	https://www.trick-art.jp/

18:00 Return to Tokyo

The two action-packed days have come to an end, and it’s time to head back to Tokyo.

If you’ve rented a car, don’t forget to return it.

Let’s take the Tohoku Shinkansen “Nasuno” from Nasushiobara Station to return home.

After 6:00 PM, there are several departures available, such as the 280 (departing at 18:03), 282 (departing at 19:03), and 218 (departing at 19:32).

During the autumn foliage season, the Shinkansen can get quite crowded, so it’s recommended to reserve your seats in advance, just like on the way there.

Note: Information is accurate as of October 16, 2024. Train schedules may change, so please confirm details yourself.

Summary

This article introduces a model course for a recommended family trip during the autumn foliage season in Nasu.

While Nasu is often associated with vacation homes, it is full of spots that children can enjoy.

Staying in a cottage allows you to relax without worrying about crying or noise, which will also ease the burden on parents.

If you’re planning to stay in Nasu, be sure to consider PlaceToBe NasuMachi!

Reservations can be made through the Airbnb pages for ToriCommons and Kaon.