A Short Trip to Tokyo’s Suburbs: Explore Popular Autumn Attractions by Train

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 
The much-anticipated Japanese maple leaf season, which draws large numbers of visitors every year, is about to begin. Along the various routes of Tobu Railway, which extends from Tokyo to four suburban prefectures and cities, the best time to admire the fall foliage is from late September to early November. Tobu Railway has conveniently launched the highly affordable “DISCOUNT PASS” for the Nikko and Kinugawa areas, allowing travelers to reach the UNESCO World Heritage “Nikko and Kinugawa” region—home to stunning maple leaves—in just about two hours from central Tokyo.

■Nikko and Kinugawa Areas
A place renowned both in Japan and abroad for its beautiful natural scenery, historic temples and shrines, and numerous cultural landmarks, the Nikko and Kinugawa areas boast countless famous historical buildings. With landscapes that change color vibrantly with the seasons, the area offers attractive natural scenery throughout the year, making it a worthwhile destination for any visit. Just around two hours from central Tokyo, you can arrive at this famous attraction located in Tochigi Prefecture.

Chuzenji Lake (Early October to Late October)
Located at the entrance of Oku-Nikko and surrounded by nature, Chuzenji Lake sits at an altitude of 1,269 meters and is the most beautiful lake in Nikko National Park. When red, yellow, and orange leaves drift onto the lake’s surface, the resulting breathtaking scene is further enhanced by the many foreign-style ambassadorial villas scattered along the lakeshore, which have contributed to the area’s international fame. From the lake, visitors can enjoy a boat cruise, and during the foliage season, there is also a limited-time “Best Foliage Viewing Route” cruise. Gazing out over the vividly colored, multi-layered autumn leaves from the lake is a delightful surprise. There are also hiking trails around the lake for leisurely strolls amid the fall colors.

Oze Marshland (Late September to Early October)
Oze Marshland and Odashiro Marshland are among the few marshland areas in Oku-Nikko, Japan. They provide a rare opportunity to admire red marsh grasslands and feature easy hiking trails perfect for foliage viewing. It’s a gentle hiking course that takes about two hours to complete across the marshland.

■ Nasu Area
Nasu Ropeway (Late September to Mid-October)
Tochigi Prefecture’s Nasu District is home to the Nasu Ropeway, which has the largest passenger capacity in the Kanto region—accommodating up to 111 people—and offers an experience akin to walking in the sky. In just about four minutes, it takes you to the 9th station of Mount Chausu, the main peak of Mount Nasu, an active volcano and one of the most representative peaks in the Kanto region. From the ropeway, you can view famous mountains in the Kanto region such as Mount Tsukuba, as well as peaks in southern Tohoku, including Shirakawa City in Fukushima Prefecture and Mount Yamizo. Especially during the foliage season, you can enjoy the spectacular sight of the mountains covered in brilliant red hues.