TOCHIGI

Lake Chuzenji

Touring the Untouched Natural Beauty of Lake Chuzenji

Everywhere you look around Nikko’s Lake Chuzenji promises to offer unrivaled views of nature at its finest. From verdant forests to volcanic mountains, there’s plenty to see, and just as much to do, in the area.

Nature & Outdoor Relaxing Stay Activities Onsen(Hot Springs) Scenery

Access

Emerald forests, majestic mountains, cool blue waters, and refreshing hot springs are just a few of the natural delights you’ll find in Tochigi.

Flanked by foliage-rich mountains at 1,269 meters above sea level, Lake Chuzenji's location is reason enough to be impressed. But, this scenic, striking blue lake has plenty of other reasons why it's one of Nikko's most treasured natural features. The lake was formed around 20,000 years ago, after the eruption of Mt. Nantai, Nikko's sacred volcano. Today, the lake that sits at the foot of Mt. Nantai is as scenic as ever, home to a cluster of nature-centric attractions like hiking, water sports, and Chuzenji Onsen, a quaint hot spring town.

If you want to explore the area in depth, a hilly network of lakeside walking trails weaves its way around the entirety of the 25-kilometer circumference of the lake. To admire Lake Chuzenji from a different perspective, take a scenic boat cruise, or head over to the Chuzenjiko Skyline. Most of the area that surrounds Lake Chuzenji remains relatively untouched. On the northern end of the lake is where you'll find the most developed pocket of the area, where Chuzenji Onsen sits.

This quaint onsen town is pumped full of mineral-rich hot spring water sourced from Nikko Yumoto Onsen, located 12 kilometers away. At its source, this water is a scolding 78 degrees Celsius (172.4°F), but as it makes its journey from Nikko Yumoto Onsen to Lake Chuzenji, it cools just enough to the perfect bathing temperature. It's the most idyllic spot to slow down, take a soak, and embrace the untouched beauty of Tochigi.

If you want to witness the natural wonder of Japan, Nikko’s Lake Chuzenji is an excellent place to see it all, and is only three hours from Tokyo by train and bus. From the volcanic Mt. Nantai to the colorful leaves that line walking paths around the lake, there’s so much to take in while touring Tochigi.

Address

Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Station) “Nikko” Tourist Information Center
719-1 Imaichi, Nikko City, Tochigi 321-1261

Contact

Tel: +81 288-22-1525
Email: info@nikko-kankou.org

Business hours

09:00 – 17:00

WEB site

https://www.visitnikko.jp/en/itineraries/day-at-regal-lake-chuzenji/