Nasu Town, located in the northern part of Tochigi Prefecture, is a charming tourist destination offering natural beauty and a wide range of activities.
Knowing the seasonal temperatures and suitable clothing can greatly enhance your travel experience.
This article introduces the climate of Nasu Town and the appropriate clothing for each season.
Characteristics of the climate of Nasu Town
In the northwest of Nasu Town stands the Nasu Mountain Range, with Mount Chausu as its main peak, and the Nasu Plateau spreads across the southern slope.
Due to its highland terrain, the area is characterized by cool summers and snowy winters.
The significant temperature difference between morning and evening necessitates attention to clothing.
Nasu Town is renowned as a summer resort destination in Japan, attracting many tourists due to its abundance of vacation homes and leisure facilities.
Please check out the previous article for an overview of Nasu Town.
Seasonal Clothing and Tourist Spot Guide
Introducing the seasonal temperatures and recommended tourist spots of Nasu Town.
The following graph shows the annual temperatures of Nasu Town.
Spring: March to May
What to Wear:
Even in spring, with Nasu Town’s average low temperature around -1°C(39.2°F) in March, winter outerwear such as down jackets or thick coats is still essential due to the possibility of snowfall and snow accumulation.
During this time, in high-altitude areas, you may witness a phenomenon where snowflakes blown by the wind off the mountains create an illusion of snowfall despite clear skies. In Japan, this is known as “wind flowers.”
By mid-April, cherry blossoms and azaleas start to bloom, marking the beginning of the cherry blossom viewing season. With an average high temperature of 16°C(60.8°F), it remains slightly chilly, making trench coats or jackets essential for spring outerwear.
The average high temperature in May is a very comfortable 21°C(69.8°F), making it an ideal time for sightseeing. During the day, you can get by with just a long-sleeved T-shirt or a sweatshirt.
Where to Go:
Nasu Flower World
A vast flower park spread across Nasu Highlands. Various flowers bloom throughout the seasons. In spring, the nemophila and Iceland poppies are in full bloom. Please note that the park is open from late April to late October.
Kuroiso Park
Known for approximately 230 cherry blossom trees, including Somei Yoshino, making it a famous cherry blossom spot. The park is illuminated at night, allowing visitors to enjoy the cherry blossoms in the evening. The peak viewing period is typically from mid to late April.
Yawata Azalea Colony
A cluster of azalea bushes located halfway up the Nasu Highlands at an altitude of 1,100 meters. Visitors can enjoy the view of the fresh green Nasu Mountain Range and mountain azaleas. The peak viewing period is usually from mid to late May.
Summer: June to August
What to Wear:
In Nasu, the average high temperature in June is 24°C(75.2°F). Before the rainy season, the weather is still not too hot, making it comfortable.
As the rainy season arrives from late June to mid-July, it is recommended to prepare rainwear and windbreakers to protect against the cold from rain and wind.
The average high temperature in August is 28°C(84.2°F). You can wear short sleeves during the day. Due to the strong sunlight, it’s necessary to take sun protection measures such as wearing a hat and applying sunscreen. Additionally, since there is about a 10°C(50°F) temperature difference between day and night, having a cardigan or hoodie will provide peace of mind.
Where to Go:
Nasu Trick Art Museum
A museum of trick art. Since it is indoors, you can enjoy it even on rainy days. Unlike typical art museums, you can touch the exhibits and take photos, making it fun for both adults and children!
Nasu Animal Kingdom
A popular spot as an interactive zoo where you can have many close encounters with animals. There are so many hands-on events like feeding experiences, horseback riding, camel rides, dog walks, and cat shows that one day isn’t enough to enjoy them all.
Nasu Rindoko Family Farm
A theme park where you can enjoy both a tourist farm and an amusement park surrounding the only lake in Nasu Highlands, Lake Rindo. At the farm, you can interact with alpacas and goats, experience milking, and go horseback riding. The amusement park offers activities such as go-karts, zip-lining, and water bicycles. Every year in July, August, and September, fireworks festivals are held at night. Please check the website for the schedule.
Autumn: September to November
What to Wear:
The average high temperature in September is 24°C(75.2°F). Although the daytime temperature is comfortable, the temperature difference between day and night means it is advisable to have a cardigan or hoodie.
From late September to late October, the autumn leaves are at their best. During this time, the average high temperature is 19°C(66.2°F). It is advisable to have a light outer layer, such as a mountain parka or jacket.
By November, it quickly starts to feel like winter. With an average high temperature of 13°C(55.4°F), winter coats and sweaters become necessary.
Where to Go:
Mount Chausu
The main peak of the Nasu Mountain Range. The autumn leaves can be enjoyed around early October each year. This mountain can be enjoyed even by beginners. For those who are concerned, you can take the “Nasu Ropeway” from the base station to the summit station at the 9th station. (Please check the operating status on the website in advance, as the Nasu Ropeway may be suspended due to strong winds.)
Tsutsuji Suspension Bridge
Located in Nasu Yumoto, this suspension bridge is 130 meters long and 38 meters high. The autumn leaves can be enjoyed around mid-October each year. From this thrilling suspension bridge, you can enjoy the autumn colors of the Nasu Mountain Range.
Winter:December to February
What to Wear:
In December, the average high temperature is 8°C(46.4°F), and the average low temperature is -2°C(28.4°F), bringing a sudden chill.
In January and February, the average high temperature is 5°C(41°F), and the average low temperature is -4°C(24°F), making it even colder.
It can get cold enough to freeze water pipes. You will need proper winter clothing, such as a down jacket, gloves, scarves, and hand warmers.
Since it snows, snow boots are recommended. If you are coming by car, snow tires or chains will be necessary.
Where to Go:
Hunter Mountain Shiobara
Hunter Mountain Shiobara is a ski resort located in Nasushiobara City. You can enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. Gear and equipment such as ski wear and snowboards are available for rent.
Shika-no-Yu
Shika-no-Yu is a day-use hot spring with a history of about 1,390 years since its opening. There are six different temperatures of hot spring water (five for women), allowing you to choose the one you prefer. The high sulfur content makes soap difficult to lather and the bathhouse floors slippery, so shampoo and body soap are prohibited. Please be aware of this rule.
Summary
Nasu Town is a charming tourist destination where you can enjoy natural beauty and a variety of activities.
Being a highland area, it has cool summers and snowy winters.
Spring and autumn offer relatively comfortable temperatures, with opportunities to enjoy flowers and autumn foliage.
Please refer to the information on the climate and suitable clothing for each season, as well as the recommended tourist spots for each season, to enjoy a comfortable trip.
