Autumn Charm in the Sunlight of the Mountains—Take the Shinkansen to Enjoy the Foliage: Kantō Region :: Hot Springs

The Nikko area can be considered the backyard garden of the Kantō region. Scenic spots such as Yunishikawa Onsen, Nasu Highland, and Lake Chūzenji in Oku-Nikko are all located within close proximity, making it ideal to plan a short 2–3 day trip to slowly savor the richly colored autumnal beauty of Nikko. From Tokyo Station, take the Tōhoku Shinkansen for just about 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach Nasushiobara. Transfer to the JR Tōhoku Main Line for just 5 minutes, then take a bus to Nasu Highland. Although the journey may seem a bit complicated, the breathtaking mountain scenery will quickly make you forget any travel fatigue. From Utsunomiya Station on the Tōhoku Shinkansen, transfer to the Nikkō Line to reach Nikko. Then take a bus through the mountains painted in shades of red and yellow to arrive at Lake Chūzenji. To return to Nikko, first transfer at Shimogawa Station, then take the Tōbu Railway to Kinugawa Onsen, from where you can catch a bus to the historic Yunishikawa Onsen. Lake Chūzenji is a highland lake formed by a volcanic eruption of Mount Nantai, the main peak of the Nikkō Mountains. It is the largest lake in Nikkō National Park and also the highest-altitude lake in Japan. During the brilliant colors of early autumn, the azure lake reflects the deep blue sky, mirroring the fiery hues of the crimson maple leaves. There are numerous excellent viewpoints along the lakeshore. On foggy days, the lake takes on an ethereal and mysterious atmosphere. Visiting at sunset offers an even more stunning sight: the sky, the lake’s mirrored surface, and the surrounding woods all glow red as if ignited, creating an unforgettable scene. Taking a cruise on the lake adds another special dimension to the foliage experience.

It is said that Yunishikawa Onsen was once a refuge for the defeated Heike clan after the historic Genpei War. In autumn, the valley of Yunishikawa becomes adorned with a riot of colorful leaves as various deciduous trees transform. Traditional houses along the stream are also surrounded by bursts of vibrant red foliage, allowing visitors to enjoy not only cultural history but also nature’s palette. Meanwhile, the European-style Nasu Highland offers more than just hiking trails through forests painted in crimson. The sweeping views across the plateau, paired with the fiery red hues of Mount Nasu in the distance, showcase the unspoiled beauty of nature in full display. The area is dotted with uniquely charming resorts and villas, serving delicious seasonal cuisine that further enhances the enchanting feel of autumn in Nasu Highland. Article cited: Beautiful Nikko – Your First Stop Among Kantō's Famous Foliage Spots

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