Things To Do
in Nasushiobara

Nasushiobara is a serene city located in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The area is famous for its hot springs, beautiful natural scenery, and proximity to the iconic Nasu Mountain range. It serves as a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and outdoor activities, including hiking and skiing.

Nasushiobara also offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese life with its historic temples and local festivals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Nasu Yuuen, a beautiful park with walking trails, scenic views, and seasonal flowers. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Head to the Nasu Animal Kingdom to interact with various animals and enjoy family-friendly activities. Afterward, explore the nearby Nasu Heritage Museum to learn about the local culture and history.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya, sampling regional dishes, followed by a relaxing soak in one of the many onsen (hot springs) to unwind.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike on the Nasu Mountain trail, taking in the breathtaking views and fresh air. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at one of the scenic lookout points.

afternoon
:

Visit the Nasu Rindoko Lake View with options for paddle boating and cycling around the lake. Grab lunch at a lakeside café.

evening
:

Return to the city and experience a traditional kaiseki dinner, featuring seasonal ingredients, before taking a stroll through the vibrant streets of Nasushiobara.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Ramen meal$8
🍣Sushi platter$15
Coffee$4
🏨Hotel night stay$70
🚍Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Relaxing atmosphere with numerous onsen options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Transportation can be more challenging without a car.
  • English signage may be less common in rural areas.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious

Places to Visit in Nasushiobara

Visit one of these nice places.

Nasu Mountain Range

A stunning backdrop for landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the mountains are bathed in golden light.

Shika no Yu Onsen

The picturesque hot spring area surrounded by nature, perfect for capturing tranquil moments and beautiful scenery.

Rindoko Lake

A serene lake offering opportunities for capturing reflections of the mountains and seasonal changes in foliage.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nasushiobara

Nasushiobara's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Japanese cuisine and local specialties, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Nasushiobara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yuba

Tofu skin, often served fresh or fried, is a local delicacy known for its delicate texture and flavor.

Must-Try!

Nasu Beef

Renowned for its quality, Nasu beef is tender and flavorful, frequently served as shabu-shabu or grilled.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nasushiobara Food Market

A lively market where you can sample local delicacies, from fresh produce to street food snacks like yakitori and taiyaki.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nasushiobara experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with snowfall, averaging around 0°C (32°F), while summers are warm and humid, reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and are characterized by beautiful natural scenery, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting and sign of respect; the depth of the bow depends on the situation.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes or certain traditional establishments to maintain cleanliness.

Quietness

Maintain a calm demeanor in public spaces to respect local customs; loud conversations are generally frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nasushiobara is considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is important to be cautious around natural areas, particularly during hiking or skiing. Always follow local guidelines and stay updated on weather conditions.

Tipping in Nasushiobara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan; instead, exceptional service is expected as part of the experience.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash (Yen) and credit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and rural areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, particularly at parks and along riverbanks, creating picturesque scenery.

Summer

Warm weather invites outdoor activities like hiking and water sports, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Experience stunning autumn foliage, especially in the mountains, making it a prime time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures bring snow to the region, providing excellent skiing opportunities at nearby resorts and beautiful winter landscapes.

Nightlife Guide

Nasushiobara at Night

Nasushiobara's nightlife is more subdued compared to larger cities, focusing on cozy izakayas, bars, and traditional tea houses. Visitors can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, with many establishments offering local sake and shochu. The nightlife scene is enhanced during festivals, where street food stalls and local events create a vibrant experience.

Hiking in Nasushiobara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Nasu Hiking Trail

A popular trail offering scenic views and varied terrain, suitable for hikers of all levels, with well-marked paths.

Chausuyama Trail

A moderate hike leading to a stunning viewpoint, perfect for capturing photos and enjoying a picnic.

Airports

How to reach Nasushiobara by plane.

Fukushima Airport

Located approximately 60 kilometers from Nasushiobara, it serves both domestic and limited international flights, providing access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nasushiobara is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where key attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. However, some areas may require transportation to reach distant attractions, particularly those in the surrounding natural landscapes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Families

Many local families enjoy outdoor activities and cultural festivals, contributing to community engagement.

Tourists

A growing number of domestic and international tourists visit for the natural beauty and hot springs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in Japan, with many local teams and youth leagues, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.

Skiing

Given the proximity to the Nasu Mountains, skiing is popular in the winter months, drawing both locals and tourists alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nasushiobara is generally light, but car travel is recommended for accessing remote attractions. Public transportation options include buses and trains, which connect to larger cities and nearby areas, but schedules may vary, so checking in advance is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nasushiobara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, particularly with dishes featuring yuba or seasonal vegetables.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be more limited, but many rice-based dishes are available and can be requested without soy sauce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Nasushiobara is accessible with several hospitals and clinics available. Visitors should have travel insurance that covers medical services, and English-speaking staff may not always be available, so it's best to carry a translation app or phrasebook.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide