Why Hike in the Nasu Highlands?
The Nasu highlands (那須高原) in Tochigi Prefecture offer some of the most accessible and rewarding hiking in the Kanto region. With Mount Nasu (Nasudake) as a dramatic centrepiece, trails range from easy nature walks through beech forests to challenging volcanic ridge routes. The area is within a few hours of Tokyo, making it a popular weekend escape for hikers of all levels.
Key Hiking Areas Around Nasu Oosawa
1. Mount Chausu (茶臼岳) — The Volcanic Summit
At 1,915 metres, Chausudake is the main volcanic peak of the Nasu range and one of the most popular hikes in the area. A ropeway from the Nasu Ropeway Station takes you up to around 1,684 metres, from where a well-maintained trail leads to the rocky summit. The round trip on foot from the ropeway station takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. On clear days, the panoramic views across Tochigi and neighbouring prefectures are spectacular.
Difficulty: Moderate | Best season: May to October
2. Asahi-dake and Sanbonyari Trail
For more experienced hikers seeking a longer day out, the traverse from Asahi-dake to the Sanbonyari (三本槍ヶ岳) peak — the highest point in the Nasu range at 1,917 metres — offers stunning ridge walking with views of both Fukushima and Tochigi. This route typically takes 5 to 6 hours return.
Difficulty: Challenging | Best season: June to October
3. Senjo-ga-hara Marshland Walk (戦場ヶ原)
Located near Nikko but easily combined with a Nasu trip, Senjo-ga-hara is a high-altitude wetland offering a flat, beautiful boardwalk trail through marsh grasses, wildflowers, and birch woodland. It's ideal for families and those who prefer an easy-paced nature walk.
Difficulty: Easy | Best season: May to November
Trail Tips and Safety
- Check volcanic activity alerts. Mount Nasu is an active volcano. Check the Japan Meteorological Agency's volcanic alert level before visiting. Access to certain areas may be restricted at short notice.
- Start early. Trails get busy on weekends and holidays. An early start helps you avoid crowds and afternoon weather changes.
- Wear layered clothing. Temperatures on the highlands can be significantly cooler than at sea level, even in summer. Wind and fog can appear quickly.
- Bring water and snacks. There are limited facilities on the trails themselves. Pack enough food and at least 1.5 litres of water per person.
- Sturdy footwear is essential. The volcanic terrain on Chausudake is rocky and loose. Proper hiking boots are strongly recommended.
Getting to the Trailheads
The Nasu Ropeway serves as the main starting point for the volcanic summit hikes and is accessible by bus from Nasu-Shiobara Station or by car. Parking areas fill up fast during peak autumn weekends, so arriving before 8am is advisable. For Senjo-ga-hara, buses run from Nikko Station during the main tourism season.
What to Pack
- Waterproof jacket and wind layer
- Hiking boots with ankle support
- Trail map or downloaded offline GPS map
- Sunscreen and hat
- First aid basics and emergency whistle
- Portable phone charger
After the Hike
One of the great rewards of hiking in Nasu Oosawa is soaking tired muscles in an onsen afterwards. Many ryokan and public baths near the highlands welcome hikers for day-use bathing. It's the perfect way to close out a day on the trails.