Introducing autumn foliage at Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake) in Nikko National Park, Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture — a video guide to the fall colors.
Tochigi Prefecture — Autumn at Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake)
Photo: Autumn at Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake), Tochigi Prefecture
This time we present a video by Zekkei Channel titled “[4K] Nikko National Park — Mt. Nasu Autumn Colors: Kanto’s No. 1 Fall Foliage Spot 2020.”

Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake), which boasts some of the best autumn colors in the Kanto region, sits inside Nikko National Park in Tochigi Prefecture.
What makes its fall foliage special is that you can enjoy the colors while hiking.
The video captures the dramatic contrast between the towering volcanic slopes of Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake) and the blazing red leaves — a sight that will make you want to see it in person. Start by watching the beautiful 4K footage of the autumn scenery.

What kind of mountain is Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake)? When is the best time to see the leaves?
Photos: Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake), Tochigi Prefecture
Mt. Nasu, the main peak of the Nasu Mountain Range and part of the volcanic group centered on the Nasu Five Peaks, is also known as Mt. Chausudake. It has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains.

Located in the northwest of Nasumachi in Nasu District, Tochigi Prefecture, Mt. Chausudake rises to 1,915 meters. Together with Mt. Asahi to the north, it offers autumn views of Japanese maple and Enkianthus (dōdantsutsuji). As an active volcano, you may notice faint sulfur scents in the air.

The foliage typically peaks from late September through early October. With the ropeway in operation, people from beginner to advanced levels can enjoy autumn hiking, and climbers gather here in large numbers every year.

Highlights of Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake) autumn foliage and recommended viewpoint spots
Photos: Autumn colors at Ubagadaira (Ubagadaira plateau), Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake), Tochigi Prefecture
The must-see on Mt. Nasu is the striking pairing of the active volcano and vivid red leaves. The tree-lined slopes that lead toward the summit offer outstanding views throughout the climb.
Video cue 1:33 — Exceptional foliage visible during the ascent of Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake).

The summit views are breathtaking. You will find yourself breathless at the panorama that stretches 360 degrees: the town below, the forests dyed red, and the wide horizon.
A maintained trail circles the crater, so you can walk around the rim. Climbers call this circuit ohachi meguri (a circuit around the crater).

If you visit during peak foliage, don’t miss the views from Ubagadaira.
The dramatic contrast between volcanic steam and the red canopy is truly moving — a photographer’s dream.
Video cue 5:57 — Ubagadaira at the foot of Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake).

Recommended routes and clothing for autumn hiking on Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake), especially for beginners
Photo: Nasu Ropeway, Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake), Tochigi Prefecture
Autumn hikes on Mt. Nasu suit everyone from first-time walkers to serious climbers.
Several routes vary by difficulty, but beginners will appreciate taking the ropeway. If you want to enjoy the colors without attempting a full technical climb, the ropeway makes the ascent easy and accessible.

From Nasu Ropeway Summit Station to the summit of Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake) is about a 50-minute walk one way. This pleasant route lets you enjoy leaf viewing while you climb.

What about temperature and clothing during the fall colors? From late September through October, daytime temperatures often hover around 10°C near peak season. Mornings and evenings can be cold, and strong winds sometimes reach the summit, so wear layers and bring an easily removable outer layer to adjust your body temperature.

Wear sturdy hiking boots or trekking shoes, and bring rain gear because mountain weather can change quickly.

Beginner tip: the ropeway takes you to the ninth station in about four minutes — a quick lift for those who prefer an easier route. Below are access details and parking information.
Photos: Mt. Nasu and the Nasu Ropeway, Tochigi Prefecture
If you drive to the trailhead, there are three parking areas:
・Nasu Ropeway parking — 175 spaces
・Mount Nasu Toge-no-Chaya Daiichi and Second Parking Areas — 167 spaces
・Daimaru Parking Lot — 160 spaces

Ropeway fares are round-trip: adults (junior high school students and older) 1,800 yen; children (ages 3 to elementary school) 900 yen.
During peak foliage you can enjoy beautiful colors from inside the ropeway, so it’s highly recommended for sightseers as well.

The ropeway ride from Nasu Ropeway Sanroku Station to the summit station takes about four minutes, delivering you quickly to the ninth station of Mt. Chausudake.

Summary — Autumn foliage at Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake)
Photos: Mt. Chausudake (Mt. Nasu) in autumn, Tochigi Prefecture
Against the white plumes of steam and the dark volcanic slopes, the fall colors look dazzling. Many visitors describe the view as a once-in-a-lifetime scene.

Expect crowds during peak foliage. Before you go, check the weather forecast and, if possible, live cameras for leaf color and parking status.

After your hike, relax at a hot spring to soothe tired muscles. Kyukamura Nasu offers day-use hot spring baths. Nikko National Park has many natural spots beyond Mt. Nasu, so when you visit Tochigi Prefecture, take time to enjoy its varied landscapes.

TripAdvisor — Mt. Nasu (Mt. Chausudake)