Local Travel Guide of Nasu
by Melissa B.
About this Local Travel Guide of Nasu
I put together this travel guide of Nasu with off the beaten path experiences and places. It is a guide aimed at someone who likes to see things that aren’t always in the travel guide books.
Who is this travel guide for?
This local travel guide of Nasu is aimed towards solo travellers, couples, or small groups.
Total budget?
¥2,500 – ¥3,500 per person
01
Enjoy when
Farm Fresh
Minamigaoka Dairy Farm
Minamigaoka Dairy Farm is good for families, couples, and a small group of friends. It has activities like horseback riding, fishing, and animal petting/feeding. There is a range of shops and restaurants at the entrance, but don’t miss the Jersey milk and soft-serve ice cream! It’s so fresh! There also have skewered meats dishes and Jinigis kan (Lamb BBQ) if your appetite is bigger. Best to get there early as the car parking area can get crowded.
(Location: Google Map)
02
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A one of a kind museum
Taima museum
At first glance, this shop might seem funny or taboo. However, a visit to this museum will educate you on Japan’s history with the hemp plant. The shop staff was very informative (in Japanese) and allowed us to open the display case and touch the items inside. Also, there is even a cute little hemp shrine! The museum is small and sells several things that are not in your typical Japanese supermarkets, like hemp oils, seeds, and protein powder. Free admission.
(Location: Google Map)
02
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03
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Killer views
Sesshoseki, Killing stone
Take a stroll around this area and learn about the Japanese legend of a nine-tailed fox. The walk up to the boulder is short and smooth. As you get closer to the top, you will begin to notice the sulfuric odor. There is an interesting collection of Jizo statues leading up to the boulder and a shrine nearby. It is a scenic place to take photos. Parking and admission are free.
(Location: Google Map)
04
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Deer Baths
Shikano Yu Onsen
Relax in one of the oldest onsens in Japan. The waters here are known for being therapeutic and you’ll feel great after getting out. The legend goes, an injured deer that soaked in these onsen waters was completely healed. That is where the name comes originates. Bring a towel, but shampoos and soaps are unnecessary as you cannot use them in these baths. They have a ryokan to spend the night in, but you can also go for the day!
(Location: Google Map)
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My favorite places to eat in Nasu
Hamburger Cafe UNICO
Hamburger Cafe UNICO has a nice variety of burgers used with locally made ingredients. The interior of this place is minimalistic yet stylish. The staff are friendly and the background music sets a nice mood. In addition to the selection of burgers, they also have an eclectic drink menu with handmade sodas and shakes. The price ranges from 1600yen to 2200yen per person.
(Location: Google Map)
Mr. Beef
Mr. Beef has unique retro decor and is reminiscent of the US. They offer a wide range of Hamburg and steaks which they will cook to your liking. The staff was friendly and patient. We got a coupon for a free drink when posting our meal on to SNS! The price ranges from about 1300yen to 3000yen per person.
(Location: Google Map)
Itinerary (Ideas for a day trip)
Morning
- Minamigaoka Dairy
- Check out the shops and museums on route 17
- Nasu Safari Park
Afternoon
- Nasu Rindoko Lake View
- Stained glass Museum Nasu
- Nasu Teddy bear museum
Evening
- Sesshoseki
- Nasu Yuzen Shrine
- Shika no Yu Onsen
Lunch
- Finland no Mori Hammock Cafe
- Nasu Shozo Cafe
- Mr. Beef Dining
Dinner
- Mr. Beef Dining
- Juraku Hoten Steak House
- Unico Cafe
Stay
- Hotel Epinard
- Sansuikaku
- Royal Hotel Nasu
Check out other local guides here!
Local writer: Melissa B
Melissa moved to Japan in 2014 from Boston Massachusetts in the US. She currently works and resides in Tochigi City. Holding a background in art, Melissa is always looking for a good exhibit to see or music event to attend. On her days off, she frequently goes sightseeing to hot-springs, temples and shrines, and unique restaurants.
See all of Melissa’s local guides: Melissa B’s Travel Guides