Japan’s Highest Lake: 5 Must-See Scenic Wonders of Oku-Nikko – Have You Heard of Mount Nantai?
▲ The cool climate around Chuzenji Lake makes it an ideal summer retreat. (Photo by reporter Xu Wenbin, same below)
Reported by Huang Wanru / From Nikko, Japan
You haven’t truly been to Japan if you haven’t visited Nikko. If you’re tired of Tokyo’s cityscape, head to Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture—just under a two-hour drive from Tokyo. Renowned worldwide for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, it’s perfect for travelers seeking an in-depth experience.Our reporter visited the Oku-Nikko area and recommends these five must-see attractions, featuring waterfalls, lakes, and wetlands—all in one trip.
1. Chuzenji Lake
You’ll understand the beauty of Nikko just by visiting Chuzenji Lake. Each season here offers something unique—azaleas in early summer, autumn foliage in fall—and you can enjoy a sightseeing cruise, paddle a boat, fish, or simply stroll along the lakeside path, taking in the serene views. It’s a photographer’s paradise.
▲ At Chuzenji Lake, the breathtaking mountain-surrounded scenery is unforgettable.
With a circumference of about 25 kilometers, a depth of 163 meters, and an elevation of approximately 1,269 meters, Chuzenji Lake is Japan’s highest natural lake. Originally a volcanic crater of Mount Nantai, it was formed by lava. Due to its high altitude, the lakeside is cool and peaceful even in summer, making it a favorite Japanese summer retreat.
▲ You can walk along the lakeshore or take a cruise to enjoy the scenic views at your leisure.
To admire Chuzenji Lake, stroll along the lakeside path and enjoy the views and local flora at your own pace—the atmosphere is relaxing and carefree. Alternatively, take a cruise to gaze at Mount Nantai, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, and take in the 360-degree panoramic views of the stunning lake and mountain scenery.
▲ You can take the newest cruise ship, the Mount Nantai, launched in summer 2017, to enjoy the magnificent views of Chuzenji Lake.
In autumn, when the maple leaves turn, Chuzenji Lake is at its most beautiful. The red foliage surrounding the mountains creates a spectacular and romantic scene as you cruise around the lake. Every year, many domestic and international tourists visit just to witness this breathtaking “autumn splendor.”
Transportation: Take a Tobu Bus bound for Chuzenji Onsen or Yumoto Onsen from Tobu Nikko Station, get off at “Chuzenji Onsen,” and walk about 5 minutes.
2. Chuzenji – Rikitake Kannon
Standing on the shores of Chuzenji Lake, Chuzenji Temple has a history of over 1,200 years and is a branch temple of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rinno-ji. Legend says that in 766, the founder of Nikko, Shodo Shonin, saw a statue of the Thousand-Armed Kannon in Chuzenji Lake and carved one from katsura wood. The standing “Rikitake Kannon” in the main hall is now designated as an Important Cultural Property. Visiting here also offers a stunning view of Chuzenji Lake and the distant landscape.
▲ The tranquil and elegant Chuzenji Temple boasts a history of over 1,200 years.
▲ The Rikitake Kannon in Chuzenji Temple’s main hall is an Important Cultural Property.
%This is one of the best spots to visit.
3. British Embassy Villa Memorial Park
Want to experience a taste of romantic Europe? Near Chuzenji Lake, there’s a special place where you can feel 19th-century Britain. After leaving Chuzenji, walk along a tree-lined path for about 20 minutes to reach the British Embassy Villa Memorial Park. Here, you can enjoy the ambiance of the Victorian era while taking in the views of Chuzenji Lake.
▲ Walk along the tree-lined path and enjoy the scenery to reach the British Embassy Villa Memorial Park.
▲ The British Embassy Villa Memorial Park is a famous international summer retreat.
Built during the Meiji era by a British diplomat, the former British Embassy Villa reopened as the British Embassy Villa Memorial Park after 120 years. It displays many documents related to British culture and history. Here, you can enjoy authentic English tea and sweets while cooling off in a relaxing and leisurely setting.
▲ %At this spot, you can enjoy the refined British atmosphere and take in the beautiful views of Chuzenji Lake.
Transportation: Take a Tobu Bus bound for Chuzenji Onsen or Yumoto Onsen from Tobu Nikko Station, transfer at “Chuzenji Onsen” to a bus heading to Hangetsuyama, and get off at “Italia-kan / British Embassy Villa Memorial Park Entrance,” then walk about 5 minutes.
4. Kegon Falls
With a height of 97 meters, Kegon Falls is known as one of Japan’s Three Great Waterfalls. The water plunges dramatically from the cliffs of Chuzenji Lake—a breathtaking sight you’ll never forget. For the best view, head to the two-story observation deck at the waterfall’s base, where you can look up at the powerful cascade and feel the mist—it’s truly awe-inspiring.
▲ Admire the Kegon Falls from the Waterfall Viewing Platform and experience the breathtaking power of the cascading water up close.
Transportation: Take a Tobu Bus bound for Chuzenji Onsen or Yumoto Onsen from Tobu Nikko Station, get off at "Chuzenji Onsen," and walk for about 5 minutes.
5. Senjogahara Plateau
Hikers and nature lovers shouldn’t miss this spot!"Senjogahara" is located within Nikko National Park, at an altitude of about 1,400 meters. It is one of Japan’s renowned high-altitude wetlands, boasting a rich natural ecosystem that nurtures around 350 species of wild plants. To protect the environment, the area features well-maintained boardwalks throughout, elevated on wooden planks. These not only make walking easier for visitors but also help prevent damage to the wetland. It’s a perfect destination for travelers who love scenic nature.
▲ One of Nikko’s famous attractions—Senjogahara Plateau, with its spectacular grassland wetland views, attracts many photography enthusiasts.
According to mythology, the deity of Mount Nantai and the deity of Mount Akagi in Gunma fought over territory here, which is why it’s called "Senjogahara" (Battlefield Plain). Originally a large lake, sediment accumulation over time gradually formed the current wetland plateau landscape. Visitors can stroll along the wooden boardwalks to enjoy the vast fields, magnificent wetland scenery, and even take in distant views of Mount Nantai. The entire walk takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
▲ Walk along the wooden boardwalks to admire the endless grasslands and wetland landscapes, with mountain vistas in the distance.
Transportation: Take a Tobu Bus bound for Yumoto Onsen from Tobu Nikko Station, get off at "Matsugasaki," and walk for about 1 minute.
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