5 Famous Tourist Spots in Senjogahara, Tochigi

Located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, at an elevation of about 1,400 meters, Senjogahara is a vast wetland spanning roughly 400 hectares. Surrounded by mountains such as Mt. Nantai and Mt. Taro, it offers magnificent scenery. About 350 species of plants grow here, and a wide variety of birds—including great tits—inhabit the area, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.

“Senjogahara,” largely untouched by human development, features well-maintained boardwalks, and nearby are well-known tourist spots like Yutaki Falls and Ryuzu Falls—perfect for scenic hiking.

A roughly 2.5-hour hike taking in several attractions makes for an unforgettable visit to Senjogahara. Below are five famous spots along the hiking trails to check out on your next trip!

1. Ryuzu Falls

Situated along Senjogahara’s hiking routes, Ryuzu Falls is a must-see attraction.

Together with Kegon Falls and Yutaki Falls, it is one of the “Three Great Waterfalls of Oku-Nikko.” Formed by water rushing over lava from an eruption of Mt. Nantai, its two large rocks near the plunge pool divide the flow, resembling the head of a dragon—hence its name, which literally means “dragon’s head falls.”

You can appreciate different natural landscapes each season. In May and June, the vibrant purple Tohgoku Mitsuba Tsutsuji azaleas are especially beautiful. During fall, Ryuzu Falls is a renowned spot for colorful foliage, offering stunning autumn views.

There’s also a teahouse where you can enjoy a meal or traditional Japanese sweets while admiring the waterfall.

A recommended dish is the “Ryuzu-style ozoni,” featuring deep-fried mochi unique to this teahouse. Many visitors come specifically for this specialty. Another local favorite is the “Semui Dango,” which you can enjoy with either sweet soy sauce (mitarashi) or red bean paste (ogura).

2. Senjogahara

Senjogahara is the main highlight of any hike or stroll in this area. Spanning 400 hectares, it’s a massive marshland that displays different seasonal faces year-round, making it a hugely popular spot for visitors. You can admire beautiful scenery no matter the season.

According to legend, Senjogahara got its name from a mythical battle in ancient times between the deities of Mt. Nantai and Mt. Akagi, who fought over Lake Chuzenji. Other folklore ties the marsh to tales of conflict, adding a historical dimension to your visit.

Famous for its 350 species of plants and abundant birdlife, Senjogahara remains a precious natural habitat. You’ll also find several observation decks that offer sweeping views of the marsh from various angles. Walking amid such beauty makes the time fly by, ensuring you won’t tire of the hike or nature walk.

3. Yutaki Falls

Also among the “Three Great Waterfalls of Oku-Nikko,” Yutaki Falls is a famous Senjogahara attraction where water from Lake Yunoko flows directly down into Senjogahara. You can view the waterfall from multiple angles—at the top, at the plunge pool, and from the side.

Especially impressive is the vantage from the viewing platform near the plunge pool, where you can really feel the power of the 70-meter drop—an exhilarating sight as water rushes down from Lake Yunoko.

Close by is Yutaki Rest House, where you can relax, enjoy a meal, or pick up souvenirs. Grilled sweetfish (ayu) is a popular dish, freshly cooked in front of you, and local vegetables are also available.

In autumn, the waterfall is surrounded by vibrant fall foliage, making it a must-see spot for many visitors during Senjogahara’s peak season.

4. Lake Yunoko

Located along Senjogahara’s hiking trails, Lake Yunoko is a small lake that can be circled in about an hour’s walk, offering picturesque views all year round.

In autumn, the colorful foliage is reflected in the lake’s surface, creating a mystical atmosphere. Because hot water springs from the lakebed, you might even catch glimpses of steam rising on certain days. The lake is also a famed trout-fishing spot, bustling with anglers during open season.

Along the walking path, you’ll find quiz boards for a bit of fun. You can check your answers afterward at the Yumoto Visitor Center. A stroll by Lake Yunoko is a great way to soak in the lake’s serene, almost otherworldly charm.

5. Kyukamura Nikko Yumoto

Just steps away from Lake Yunoko is Kyukamura Nikko Yumoto, a recommended lodging option that also serves as a great base for exploring Senjogahara. Surrounded by Lake Yunoko, white birch, and larch forests, it’s a true highland resort. The facility features the well-known Yumoto Onsen, and you can enjoy a day trip soak if you’re not staying overnight.

Dating back to 788, Yumoto Onsen has a long history. Its natural hot spring is fed by a free-flowing sulfur spring, resulting in milky-white water said to be beneficial for healthy skin, as well as for conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and general fatigue recovery.

One unique aspect is that the water’s appearance “changes seven times,” going from nearly transparent right after leaving the source to milky over time. Depending on the lighting, you might see hues of emerald green or pale blue—an experience that can easily make you linger longer than planned.

In the vicinity, you can also enjoy “Anyo-no-Yu,” a free foot bath using the source waters of Oku-Nikko Yumoto Onsen—perfect for soaking tired feet after a day of hiking. Adding a hot spring stop to your itinerary can make your trip to Senjogahara all the more enjoyable.

◎Summary

Aside from the attractions along the Senjogahara hiking courses, there are many other spots worth noting, such as the hidden gem Kotaki (a small waterfall), Izumione Pond with clean spring water you can safely drink, and Aoki Bridge over the Yukawa River. If you familiarize yourself with these highlights in Senjogahara, your hike will be even more rewarding.

Senjogahara’s hiking trails are well-maintained and feature numerous observation decks with panoramic views. There are benches where you can rest, plus a snack shop near Ryuzu Falls to relax at your own pace. Make sure to enjoy a hike that takes in Senjogahara’s stunning tourist spots—you won’t regret it!

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5 Famous Tourist Spots in Senjogahara, Tochigi