Oku-Nikko
Index
Highlights of Oku-Nikko
Oku-Nikko is where nature and culture intertwine harmoniously. Come to experience the untouched wilderness, ancient forests, pristine lakes, beautiful waterfalls, and awe-inspiring mountains.
In the heart of Oku-Nikko lies Lake Chuzenjiko, Japan’s highest lake at 1,269 meters. Surrounded by a lush forest, its still waters reflect the changing seasons, creating a picture-perfect scene. Visit to marvel at Kegon Falls that cascades dramatically from the lake, adding to the area’s scenic allure. Dominating the horizon is Mount Nantai, one of Japan’s most iconic and sacred mountains. Hikers can enjoy trekking its trails, rewarded with stunning panoramic views. On the shores of Lake Chuzenjiko is Tachikikanon, a temple with 1,200 years history.
Further into Oku-Nikko, you can explore more waterfalls, the vast marshland of Senjogahara, and Lake Yunoko with its Onsen hot springs. Wander wooden boardwalks among wildflowers and crystal-clear streams, enjoying the panorama of Nikko’s mountain ranges.
Oku-Nikko is in the northern part of Tochigi Prefecture and is part of Nikko city. It’s north from the Central Nikko area and between Ashio & Kinugawa Onsen.
Access
From Tokyo
From Airports
Haneda Intl. Airport
Narita Intl. Airport
Ibaraki Airport
Main Stations
Videos of Oku-Nikko
Hiking in Senjogahara Marsh
Beautiful Autumn Oku-Nikko
Autumn colours of Oku-Nikko
E-biking in Oku-Nikko
Yumoto in Early Summer
Winter Lake Yunoko and Yudaki
Things to DO in Oku-Nikko
Lake Chuzenji
Lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖) lies in the center of Oku-Nikko and offers many activities. You can enjoy walking on nature trails, hiking, cycling, cruising, SUP, fishing and much more. The shores also house some nice hotels.
Waterfalls
Oku-Nikko is home to many beautiful waterfalls. Kegon Falls (華厳ノ滝) is counted as the top 3 water falls in Japan. There is also beautiful Ryuzu Falls (竜頭ノ滝) & Yudaki Falls (湯滝) which are popular spots to visit.
Mt. Nantai
Mount Nantai (男体山, Nantaisan) is a mountain with hight of 2,486 meters. A prominent landmark by Lake Chuzenji. This beautiful mountain is popular with hikers, and is open between early May and late October. (Roughly 7 hours hike to the summit)
senjogahara marshland
Senjogahara (戦場ヶ原) is a beautiful marshland with nature trails, 350 plant species and diverse birds. These trails offer stunning views of the marshland against Mt. Nantai. Adjacent to Senjogahara is Odashirogahara, also a popular hiking path.
Yumoto Onsen
Yumoto Onsen (湯元温泉) is a onsen village with a 1,200 year history located on Lake Yunoko's northern shore. It offers ryokans, hotels and day-use baths to enjoy the therapeutic effects of the Onsen. The Onsen provides a majestic view and a relaxing soak amidst nature's beauty.
Lake Yunoko
Lake Yunoko (湯の湖) is a serene mountain lake with a walking trail through a primeval forest of diverse flora and wild birds. Hot spring water bubbles out of the northern shore and peak autumn foliage occurs from late September to mid-October.
Nikko Natural Science Museum
Visit Nikko Natural History Museum, conveniently located near Lake Chuzenji, to discover the fascinating natural wonders and rich history of Oku-Nikko through engaging exhibits.
NAOC
Come cycle with us in the Nikko World Heritage area, and experience history and culture, meet locals, and see rice fields. In winter, we have exciting snow bike rides in Oku-Nikko!
Kitrip Nikko
Join Rieko on one of Kitrip Nikko’s tours through Nikko’s outdoors to have a truly local experience. Unique tours include incense making to harvesting Ice from frozen lakes. See website for more.
Akechidaira Ropeway
Enjoy breathtaking views of Chuzenji Lake, Kegon Falls, and Mount Nantai.
Learn more about places to visit in Oku-Nikko
EATING in Oku-Nikko
Japanese Food
There are a few Japanese restaurants on the main road near the Torii Gate of Lake Chuzenjiko. You can find Kaiseki (a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner mainly served in hotels), Soba, Yuba, and more.
(Restaurants tend to close early, so we recommend checking with Google Maps in advance)
(Restaurants tend to close early, so we recommend checking with Google Maps in advance)
Western Food
There are a few western-style restaurants that serve Trout (the local specialty), and there are also nice coffee shops with lake views around the area.
(Restaurants tend to close early, so we recommend checking with Google Maps in advance)
(Restaurants tend to close early, so we recommend checking with Google Maps in advance)
Trout
Lakes in Oku-Nikko are one of the first trout fishing spots in Japan and have been popular for trout fishing ever since. Many restaurants and hotels offer a variety of trout-inspired dishes. Make sure to try it out when you are there.
Places to STAY in Oku-Nikko
Ryokan (Japanese style)
There are many traditional and modern style Ryokans in Oku-Nikko. Most are around the Lake Chuzenjiko and in Yumoto Onsen.
Hotel (Western style)
There are many western style Hotels in Oku-Nikko including the newly opened Ritz-Carlton Nikko and the historical Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel.
Holiday rental (Airbnb)
There are many houses and rooms available to rent on major rental websites.
Guesthouses
There are many guesthouses for budget travel.
Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel
Visit us for a relaxing stay at our log cabin-themed hotel by Lake Chuzenji. We are known for our French cuisine rich heritage and onsen (hot spring) relaxation.
Top EVENTS around Oku-Nikko
Day trips from Oku-Nikko
Each of these places are within a day trip away. Click on the image to find out more.
