Nestled just a short 70-minute train ride from Tokyo, Nasu in Tochigi Prefecture has long been a favorite destination for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and therapeutic hot springs. Offering everything from serene mountain landscapes to ancient onsen (hot spring) resorts, Nasu is a prime destination for those seeking an authentic and enriching Japanese experience.

A Diverse Range of Natural and Cultural Attractions

Visitors to Nasu can immerse themselves in its incredible natural beauty, which changes dramatically with the seasons. Nasu Kogen, a vast plateau located at the southern base of Mt. Chausu, is particularly renowned for its stunning landscapes. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and camping, and is also home to Nasu Animal Kingdom, a family-friendly attraction.

In addition to Nasu Kogen, the Nasu Onsen Village is another highlight for visitors. This historic village is home to a variety of traditional ryokans (Japanese inns) where visitors can relax and experience the therapeutic benefits of the region’s hot springs. Nasu Onsen Village has a history that spans over 1,390 years and is steeped in local legends, such as the story of a monk who discovered the area’s hot springs while pursuing a wounded white deer. The waters are believed to provide relief from ailments like muscular pain and neuralgia, making Nasu Onsen Village a perfect place for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate.

Shiobara and Itamuro Onsen: Traditional Hot Spring Getaways

A visit to the Shiobara Onsen Village in Nasushiobara City, Tochigi, offers travelers a blend of natural beauty and centuries-old wellness traditions. The village boasts around 60 ryokans, with many offering visitors a chance to soak in the region’s famed hot springs. The surrounding area is equally picturesque, especially during the fall when the landscape is painted with vibrant autumn foliage. Visitors can enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the hot springs while taking in views of waterfalls and lush mountains.

Just a short distance from Shiobara Onsen is Itamuro Onsen, a hidden gem nestled in the mountains. Known for its healing waters, which date back to the Heian period, Itamuro Onsen has long been a destination for those seeking a traditional wellness experience. The mildly alkaline waters are renowned for their skin-beautifying and stress-relieving properties. Surrounded by natural beauty, Itamuro Onsen also offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping.

Cultural and Seasonal Festivals

Beyond its hot springs, Nasu is home to cultural events like the annual Gojinka Festival. Held at the end of May, this traditional fire festival is meant to appease the spirits of Mt. Chausu, a local volcano that has erupted several times throughout history. The festival is marked by a dramatic fire performance, a torchlight procession, and the ignition of a giant fire pillar. The Gojinka Festival is an exciting way for visitors to experience Nasu’s unique cultural heritage while celebrating the power and beauty of nature.

Unique Culinary Experiences and Artisan Shops

For food lovers, Nasu offers plenty of culinary experiences, including the famous Tentaka Brewery. Known for producing organic sake without using chemical fertilizers or pesticides, Tentaka Brewery is an ideal stop for those interested in learning about traditional sake-making techniques. Visitors can tour the brewery and sample award-winning sake, gaining insight into the meticulous process that goes into crafting this iconic Japanese beverage.

In addition to sake, Nasu is home to shops specializing in local sweets and cheeses, with the Cheese Garden Nasu Honten being a standout. The shop is known for its delicious cheese-based desserts, such as the imperial villa cheesecake, and its café offers freshly baked pizza and handmade sweets. A visit to this spot provides an opportunity to enjoy Nasu’s natural beauty while indulging in its culinary offerings.

Ryokan Stays and Traditional Japanese Hospitality

For those seeking a more immersive experience, Nasu offers a range of traditional ryokan stays. Sansuikaku, a luxury ryokan nestled in the quiet foothills of Tochigi Prefecture, offers guests the chance to relax in private hot spring baths while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The ryokan also serves exquisite multi-course kaiseki meals made from fresh, local ingredients. For those seeking an unforgettable culinary experience, guests can even savor Nasu Kuroge Wagyu Beef, a rare delicacy produced by local ranchers.

Meanwhile, Shofuro Matsuya, a historic ryokan in Nasushiobara City, offers 13 rooms with open-air baths, allowing guests to enjoy a private and authentic Japanese experience. The ryokan’s meals, served kaiseki-style, highlight seasonal ingredients from Tochigi’s mountains and rivers, and the on-site bar offers a selection of local sake and wine.

Exploring Nasu’s Other Gems

Other highlights of Nasu include the Roadside Station Meiji no Mori Kuroiso, a historic site with flower fields, local produce, and seasonal scenery. The station features areas dedicated to craft goods, dining, and shopping, making it a great stop for travelers interested in local culture and cuisine. Another lesser-known but unique experience can be found at Sachinoyu Onsen, which offers the “tsuna no yu” bath—where guests enter a waist-deep tub filled with gravel stones—believed to aid in joint pain and blood circulation.

Impact on the Travel Industry

The growing popularity of Nasu as a year-round destination is likely to continue boosting Japan’s travel industry, particularly in the areas of wellness and eco-tourism. With its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences, Nasu is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for travelers seeking relaxation, adventure, and authentic experiences.

As more tourists seek out destinations that offer both relaxation and adventure, Nasu’s unique combination of hot springs, hiking, and cultural festivals is set to make it an even more popular choice for travelers. The increasing emphasis on wellness tourism, as seen in the growing demand for onsen experiences, is expected to drive more visitors to Nasu’s hot spring resorts.

The post Is Nasu, Tochigi the Ultimate Destination for Booming Hot Springs, Scenic Beauty, and Cultural Treasures Across Nasu Kogen, Shiobara, and Itamuro Onsen? appeared first on Travel And Tour World.