Things To Do
in Nasu
Nasu is a scenic highland town in Tochigi Prefecture known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and family-friendly outdoor appeal. Nestled in the Nasu Kogen plateau, it offers cool summers, snowy winters, and a mix of nature, onsen culture, and countryside charm. The area is accessible from Tokyo by rail and car, making it a popular weekend escape.
Expect leafy valleys, crater views, temperate climates, and a tranquil pace that suits outdoor lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Nasu and check into a traditional ryokan where you can experience the authentic Japanese hospitality and warmth. Enjoy a delightful breakfast consisting of seasonal ingredients and local delicacies. After breakfast, take a stroll around the ryokan's gardens to soak in the serene atmosphere.
Visit the Nasu Animal Kingdom, where you can interact with various animals while surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Engage in seasonal activities such as petting llamas and watching animal shows. Don’t forget to grab some lunch at the park’s café, featuring local produce.
Return to the ryokan for a traditional kaiseki dinner, where each dish is an artful representation of local flavors. Reflect on your day's adventures as you relax in the onsen, allowing the natural hot spring water to rejuvenate your spirit. End the night by gazing at the starry sky, a perfect way to conclude your first day.
Begin your day by hiking the picturesque trails of Nasu Highland, known for its stunning views of mountains and valleys. Bring along a packed breakfast to enjoy at a scenic overlook, where you can appreciate the tranquility of nature. The crisp morning air will refresh and energize you for the day's explorations.
Visit the Nasu Heisei-no-Mori Forest, a beautiful area filled with walking paths and picnic spots. Explore the forest's varied flora and fauna, and take part in outdoor activities like zip-lining or nature workshops. Grab lunch at a local café nearby, sampling some regional specialties.
Return to Nasu for a leisurely evening soaking in your ryokan's onsen. Once refreshed, venture out to a local izakaya for dinner, where you can savor delicious small plates and drink sake. The evening ambiance, filled with laughter and warm conversations, showcases the local charm perfectly.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛏Hotel/ryokan per night | $120-250 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $10-25 |
| 🎟Entrance to onsen or attraction | $6-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful highland scenery and hot springs
- Family-friendly with easy access from Tokyo
- Limited nightlife and crowds peak during holidays
- "こんにちは" - Hello (formal)
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
- "トイレはどこですか" - Where is the toilet?
Places to Visit in Nasu
Visit one of these nice places.
Captures panoramic views of the Mt. Nasu caldera and surrounding highlands, best at sunrise or late afternoon.
Pastoral fields and rolling hills offer wide-angle opportunities and seasonal color in spring and autumn.
Stone-paved lanes and traditional inns provide atmospheric shots with warm lantern light in the evening.
Food in Nasu
Nasu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Delicate sheets used in soups, hot pots, or nigiri—often prepared at specialty shops and found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Buckwheat noodles served cold with dipping sauce or hot in broth, a staple in mountain towns.
Stir-fried noodles featuring seasonal greens and local produce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market area offering fresh produce, local snacks, and seasonal treats within the onsen town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Shower before entering baths, do not wear swimsuits, and avoid bringing towels into the water. Some onsens prohibit tattoos.
Maintain a calm demeanor in public spaces and on trains; speaking softly is appreciated.
Remove shoes when entering homes, traditional inns, and many temples; use provided slippers.
Safety
Tipping in Nasu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected and included in prices. A tip is rarely expected and can be politely declined with thanks.
Cash is widely accepted; many places accept credit cards, especially in inns and larger restaurants. In rural spots, cash may be preferred; some shops support mobile payments, but plan to carry yen for smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers and fresh greenery; ideal for hiking and visiting markets.
Cool and pleasant compared to coastal areas; occasional rain showers; great for outdoor activities and sunset photography.
Vibrant foliage across highland forests; popular for scenic drives and long photography sessions.
Snowy landscapes and hot springs; skiing is available nearby; plan for cold conditions and shorter daylight hours.
Nasu at Night
Hiking in Nasu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail in Oku-Nasu with varied terrain and viewpoints.
Wide, open-highland paths offering expansive views and seasonal color.
Airports
How to reach Nasu by plane.
Major international airport in Tokyo; around 2-3 hours to Nasu by train or car.
International gateway near Tokyo; about 3-4 hours by train or car.
Smaller airport north of Tokyo; primarily domestic flights; convenient for routes from the northeast region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Visitors look for outdoor activities, hot springs, and family-friendly facilities.
Many seek tranquil onsen experiences and scenic nature trails, often staying in ryokan with private baths.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby resorts offer alpine runs and snow activities in winter.
Several courses in the Oku-Nasu area with mountain views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nasu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many herbal and vegetable-forward options; look for sets labeled as vege or yama no shoku; communicate no fish or dashi when ordering.