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Lake Chuzenji is Nikko’s natural retreat, surrounded by waterfalls, marshlands, hiking trails, and relaxing hot springs—an easy escape for a day trip.
A Nature-Filled Journey Around Lake Chuzenji
When people think of Nikko, temples and shrines often come to mind. But just beyond the UNESCO heritage zone lies Lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖), a volcanic lake surrounded by forest, waterfalls, and hiking paths. We set out to explore the quieter northern and western shores, where the scenery feels unspoiled and the pace slows down.
Our route took us from Ryuzu Falls to Senjogahara Marsh, past Yudaki Falls, and ended at Lake Yuno. It was one of the most refreshing days of our trip, filled with family-friendly walks and dramatic landscapes.
Pro Tip: Grab lunch before leaving the east end of the lake. We stopped at Kamiyama (かみやま) for donburi, and it was a hearty and satisfying meal.
Optional Start: Mount Nantai Trailhead
Shortly after passing the torii gate of Futarasan Chugushi Shrine, you’ll see the entrance to Mt. Nantai, one of Nikko’s sacred peaks. The hike is steep and takes about 8 hours round trip, with a ¥500 entrance fee. We didn’t attempt it on this visit, but it’s a bucket-list challenge for experienced hikers.
Stop 1: Ryuzu Falls (竜頭ノ滝)
Only a short drive from the east end of the lake, Ryuzu Falls (Dragon’s Head Falls) stretches nearly 300 meters over volcanic rock. The water splits around a large boulder, creating the look of a dragon’s beard.
Highlights:
- Famous for azaleas in late spring and fiery foliage in October
- Easy access with parking nearby
- A teahouse and souvenir shop offer snacks and coffee with a view
This stop was short but memorable, and perfect for families with kids.
Stop 2: Senjogahara Marshland (戦場ヶ原)
Further along the northern road, we reached Sanbonmatsu Park, the main entry point to Senjogahara Marsh. At 1,400 meters above sea level, the marsh offers sweeping views of golden grasses, distant peaks, and a boardwalk path through wetlands.
Even in the rain, we found it beautiful. The legend behind its name—“Battlefield Plain”—tells of gods fighting over Lake Chuzenji. It adds a mythical layer to the already dramatic scenery.
Stop 3: Yudaki Falls (湯滝)
Just upstream from the marsh lies Yudaki Falls, a powerful 76-meter cascade fed by Lake Yuno. A walking path runs alongside the falls, allowing you to feel the spray as the water crashes down. Depending on the season, the volume shifts, but it’s always a striking sight.
Final Stop: Lake Yuno (湯ノ湖)
At the northern end of the route, we reached Lake Yuno, a small crater lake bordered by forest. Yumoto Onsen, a hot spring town at its edge, gave the air a distinct hint of sulfur, reminding us of the volcanic energy beneath our feet.
We walked part of the one-hour trail around the lake, which felt calm and restorative. The onsen ryokans here even have outdoor baths overlooking the water, making it an ideal place to spend the night if you want to extend your trip.
How to Get to Lake Chuzenji
From Tokyo by Train
Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya, then the JR Nikko Line to Nikko. Or ride the Tobu Limited Express from Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko. From either Nikko or Tobu-Nikko Station, transfer to a Tobu Bus bound for the lake and Okunikko.
Bus from Nikko
Buses depart from in front of Tobu-Nikko Station. Look for bay 2C for Chuzenji Onsen and bay 2A for Yumoto Onsen. Typical travel times: about 48 minutes to Chuzenji Onsen and about 88 minutes to Yumoto Onsen.
By Car
Drive the Irohazaka mountain road from central Nikko to the lake. The uphill and downhill roads are one-way in opposite directions, with many hairpin turns. Parking is available near major sights.
Passes and Payment
The NIKKO PASS All Area covers all Tobu Bus lines in Nikko, including Okunikko, and also includes seasonal extras like the Akechidaira Ropeway and Lake Chuzenji cruise when in operation.
Pro Tip: Autumn is the busiest season. Start early, expect traffic on Irohazaka, and check the last return bus times for Yumoto Onsen if you are relying on public transport.
Is Lake Chuzenji Worth Visiting?
If you want to balance Nikko’s ornate temples with quiet time in nature, Lake Chuzenji is perfect. The route from Ryuzu Falls to Lake Yuno offers waterfalls, marshes, and easy trails in one loop. It’s less crowded than central Nikko and feels like a refreshing retreat.
More to Explore Nearby
As a scenic caldera lake high in the Nikko mountains, Lake Chuzenji is the source of Kegon Falls and places you close to some of the region’s most dramatic viewpoints, historical sites, and relaxing stays.
- Kegon Falls – Visit one of Nikko’s most famous waterfalls, which is the spectacular outflow of water directly from Lake Chuzenji.
- Akechidaira Plateau – Head up this scenic plateau by ropeway for a spectacular vantage point, offering sweeping views that overlook both Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji.
- Hoshino Resorts KAI Nikko – Discover a luxury accommodation option located on the shores of Lake Chuzenji itself, offering a serene base for exploring the high-mountain area.
- Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa – Explore this beautiful former imperial residence and memorial park that combines Edo, Meiji, and Taisho architectural styles, located down the mountain.
