Nasu Autumn Foliage & Hot Spring Day Tour from Tokyo | Momijidani Suspension Bridge, Sessho-seki & Nasushiobara Footbath | Autumn Foliage Special
- Visit 'Sessho-seki' to admire the peculiar volcanic rock landscape and feel the mysterious atmosphere filled with legends.
- Explore Nasu Kogen Yuai-no-Mori, enjoy the open highland scenery, and discover local delicacies and souvenirs.
- Stroll across the Momijidani Suspension Bridge, the longest on Honshu, Japan, and enjoy the full mountain of autumn leaves (admission included).
- Visit the Nasushiobara footbath to experience a comfortable natural footbath, allowing your feet to relax during the trip and enjoy the healing time of the hot spring town. (Footbath admission included)
- Enjoy popular attractions in Nasu and Shiobara in one go, combining volcanic wonders, highland scenery, valley views, and hot spring experiences for an easy nature trip in Tochigi.
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Product Info
Depart from Tokyo for a one-day journey to the Nasu region of Tochigi, combining volcanic wonders, highland scenery, valley views, and hot spring experiences to feel the natural charm far from the city.
First, head to the iconic Nasu attraction, 'Sessho-seki,' to admire the peculiar rock formations created by volcanic activity. The surrounding area is filled with a unique natural atmosphere, and combined with the legends passed down through time, it adds a mysterious and distinctive vibe to the trip.
Next, visit the Nasu Kogen Yuai-no-Mori, where you can enjoy a leisurely time in the open highland environment. This area gathers local specialties, gourmet food, and souvenirs, allowing you to freely explore the local Nasu style and feel the natural and simple lifestyle of the highland region.
Then, proceed to the Momijidani Suspension Bridge, where you can stroll across the bridge spanning the Hoki River valley and admire the surrounding mountains and valley scenery from a height. The scenery is unique in every season, especially in autumn when the autumn leaves are in full bloom, painting the entire valley in vibrant colors, making it a popular spot for enjoying the natural scenery of Nasu and Shiobara.
Finally, arrive at the Shiobara Hot Spring footbath, where you can soak your feet in the warm spring water to slow down and soothe your fatigue at the end of the trip. Enjoy a relaxing time accompanied by the leisurely atmosphere of the hot spring town.
This trip connects the volcanic landscape of Sessho-seki, the natural scenery of the Nasu Highlands, the valley views of the Momijidani Suspension Bridge, and the healing experience of the Shiobara hot springs, making it perfect for travelers who want to explore the natural landscapes of Tochigi, enjoy seasonal scenery, and experience a leisurely pace.
Sessho-seki | Volcanic Wonders and Demon Fox Legends
The Sessho-seki (Killing Stone), a historic site in the Nasu Highlands, is a volcanic wonder shrouded in mystery. Surrounded by the scent of sulfur, the desolate and unique landscape, intertwined with ancient legends, makes you feel as if you have stepped into another world. Legend has it that a beautiful yet evil nine-tailed fox, 'Tamamo-no-Mae,' disguised herself as a beautiful woman to approach the Emperor. After her true identity was revealed, she fled to Nasu. Eventually, the nine-tailed fox was defeated and transformed into a giant rock that emitted toxic gas, killing any creature that approached it, hence the name 'Sessho-seki' (Killing Stone). Today, this legendary boulder stands quietly amidst the sulfur-filled mountains, serving as a unique attraction that combines natural wonders with Japanese folklore.
Nasu Kogen Yuai no Mori | Local Delicacies and Souvenirs. This area gathers various restaurants and local specialty shops, offering a wide variety of Nasu Highland cuisine. Passengers are free to choose their own lunch according to their preferences. In addition to enjoying the food, you can also purchase local Nasu specialties and souvenirs, soaking in the leisurely atmosphere of the highland. The itinerary includes a free lunch, allowing you to taste local flavors while enjoying your meal time at your own pace.
Every autumn, the Momijidani Suspension Bridge welcomes its most beautiful season of the year. Walking across the approximately 320-meter-long suspension bridge, the surrounding mountains are painted in shades of gold and red, with layers of autumn leaves extending along the Hoki River valley, decorating the entire valley like a painting. Standing on the bridge and looking out, the vibrant autumn colors and the clear valley stream interweave into a magnificent landscape. As the breeze blows, the mountain of autumn leaves sways gracefully. Strolling across the bridge feels like being inside an autumn landscape painting; it is a must-see view during the autumn foliage season in Nasu-Shiobara.
A unique foot bath facility located in Nasu-Shiobara City, Tochigi Prefecture, featuring one of the largest foot bath trails in Japan. Passengers can enjoy the warm hot spring while admiring the surrounding mountain scenery, allowing their feet to relax in the hot spring. Strolling slowly along the foot bath and feeling the comfort and warmth brought by the hot spring is an ideal experience to relax after visiting the Shiobara Onsen town.
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Departure/Destination: Tokyo - Tochigi
Duration: Same-day round trip
Transportation: Bus
Bus Company: Sunshine Trading Co., Ltd.
Meals: Breakfast 0, Lunch 0, Dinner 0
Accommodation: None
Minimum Participants: 7
Tour Leader: 1 (Driver will act as tour leader for groups of 15 or fewer)
Tour Guide: 0
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating Company: Sunshine Trading Co., Ltd.
Address: 1-1-1 Shinmeiminami, Adachi-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Tokyo Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-7084
Travel Agency Association: Regular Member of Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)
Reminders
A minimum of 7 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 20:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: Epilepsy, Pregnant women, Asthma, Acrophobia, Heart disease, High blood pressure
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Please ensure that the phone/APP contact information you provide can be reached during your trip to Japan. If you are unable to participate in the tour due to being unreachable, late, etc., no refunds or compensation will be provided.
Vehicle type: Vehicles are arranged according to the number of people. For small groups, a driver who also serves as an on-board staff member will be arranged to provide full travel services, without an additional tour leader or guide. Some drivers/guides may use translation software to communicate with passengers. Please note this before booking. This product is a shared service, and you will be traveling with other passengers. Please be sure to comply with the stay time at each attraction and cooperate with the tour leader or driver/guide. Small groups of 7–14 people are led by a driver who also acts as a guide; the driver will not accompany you off the bus. Bus tours of 15–49 people are equipped with an independent tour guide. Actual arrangements will be adjusted according to the number of people on the day.
The entrance fees for the Momijidani Suspension Bridge and the foot bath are not included in the tour price. If you are unable to visit due to weather, traffic restrictions, temporary closure of the scenic area, government announcements, force majeure, or adjustments made by the travel agency based on actual conditions, or if you choose not to participate for personal reasons, these will be considered as voluntarily forfeited items. No refunds, cash equivalents, or other compensation will be provided. Thank you for your understanding.
If the trip is canceled due to force majeure (including natural disasters, war, strikes, government bans, mechanical failure, traffic accidents, etc., which are beyond our control) before departure, the company will refund the full tour fee before departure. If the trip is suspended on the day of departure or during the trip due to the above reasons, the remaining tour fee will be refunded after deducting the actual expenses incurred. In such cases, no additional compensation claims will be accepted, and other losses or additional expenses incurred must be borne by the passenger. The return time on the day of the trip may be delayed due to objective factors such as road conditions and weather, especially during holidays when traffic congestion is more likely. The company will flexibly adjust the itinerary according to the actual situation, and the return time may be later than expected. If you need to catch a night flight or connect to a subsequent itinerary on that day, it is recommended to reserve sufficient time to avoid affecting subsequent arrangements. No refunds or compensation will be provided for delays in the itinerary. Please be aware of this. Special reminder to passengers who need to catch flights: please evaluate carefully before signing up, or arrange subsequent itineraries properly.
The bus operates on a one-seat-per-person basis to ensure the comfort and safety of all passengers. Seat assignments cannot be requested in advance. Please be aware that depending on the daily booking situation, you may be seated next to a passenger of a different gender. In accordance with local Japanese regulations, children aged 3 and older are required to occupy their own seat; therefore, they must be charged the same price as adults. If you are traveling with children, please notify customer service when placing your order. If you fail to notify us in advance and do not pay the required fees, and the vehicle becomes overloaded due to the child boarding on the day of the trip, the tour guide reserves the right to refuse boarding to the child and their accompanying parent to comply with local regulations and ensure the safety of all passengers. In such cases, the company will not be held liable, and no refunds will be provided for fees already paid. Any additional losses incurred must be borne by the passenger. Thank you for your cooperation.
Minors under 18 and children must be accompanied by an adult with full civil capacity. For passengers aged 70 and older, it is recommended to be accompanied by family or friends and to sign a disclaimer on the day of departure. To ensure your safety and the rights of other group members, please proactively and truthfully inform us of any chronic illnesses, mobility issues, or other special health conditions at the time of booking so that we can make appropriate arrangements and provide assistance in advance. Any costs incurred due to the need for special assistance for personal reasons must be borne by the passenger.
If you are carrying multiple or large pieces of luggage, please inform us in advance. Each passenger is limited to one suitcase.
The best time for autumn foliage may be advanced or delayed due to weather conditions. The tour will depart on the scheduled date even if it is not the peak period, and you cannot cancel the reservation for free for this reason. Please be aware of this.
Please bring your own towel for the foot bath experience. If you do not bring a towel in advance, you can also purchase one on-site at the foot bath for 300 yen each.
There are stairs and slopes at Sessho-seki and the Momijidani Suspension Bridge. Please watch your step and it is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes.
FAQ
1. Are the Momiji-dani Suspension Bridge and Sessho-seki in Nasu Shiobara suitable for visits outside of autumn?
While the Momiji-dani Suspension Bridge is a famous spot for autumn foliage and attracts visitors with its stunning mountain views, attractions like Sessho-seki and Nasu Highland Yuyuu Hiroba can be visited year-round. Sessho-seki is renowned for its unique volcanic rock formations and mysterious legends, making it season-independent. Nasu Highland Yuyuu Hiroba offers expansive highland scenery and local specialties. The Nasu Shiobara foot bath also provides a relaxing hot spring experience suitable for all seasons, offering relief for your feet during your travels.
2. How do I get to the meeting point for a day trip to Nasu Shiobara from Tokyo?
Day trips to Nasu Shiobara from Tokyo typically set the meeting point near major, easily accessible train stations in the city, such as around Shinjuku or Tokyo Station. The specific meeting point, time, and detailed directions will be provided via your voucher or confirmation email after you book the tour. We recommend carefully reading this information before your departure and allowing ample travel time to ensure you can easily find the meeting spot and start your journey smoothly.
3. How much time is approximately needed to walk across the Momiji-dani Suspension Bridge and visit Sessho-seki?
For a walk across the Momiji-dani Suspension Bridge, it's generally recommended to allow about 30 to 60 minutes. This is enough time to leisurely stroll across the bridge, admire the natural scenery on both sides of the valley, and take commemorative photos on or around it. For visiting Sessho-seki, we suggest allocating 40 to 60 minutes. You can wander through the volcanic rock area, experience its unique sulfurous scent and mysterious atmosphere, and learn about the legend of the Nine-Tailed Fox. Actual visiting time can be flexibly adjusted based on your individual pace and interests.
4. What is special or legendary about Sessho-seki in Nasu?
Sessho-seki in Nasu is a volcanic landscape full of mystery. Its uniqueness lies in the continuous emission of sulfurous gases from underground, which makes it difficult for vegetation to grow around it, creating a desolate yet distinctive volcanic terrain. The most famous legend associated with Sessho-seki is that the Nine-Tailed Fox demon from Japanese mythology transformed into this stone after being defeated. It continues to emit poisonous gas, harming living beings that pass by, hence its name 'Sessho-seki' (Killing Stone). Visitors can experience the wonders of nature and the charm of ancient legends up close.
5. Besides enjoying the scenery at Nasu Highland Yuyuu Hiroba, what other activities are recommended?
At Nasu Highland Yuyuu Hiroba, in addition to enjoying the expansive highland scenery and fresh natural air, there are well-equipped facilities for visitors to experience. You can explore local specialties and savor delicious dishes made with Nasu Highland ingredients. You can also purchase a variety of local souvenirs, such as agricultural products, dairy products, and handicrafts, to take the unique flavors of Nasu home with you. It's also a great place to rest and relax, suitable for a brief stop.
6. What is the process for experiencing the Nasu Shiobara foot bath?
The experience at the Nasu Shiobara foot bath is very simple and relaxing. Simply find a comfortable seat in the foot bath area, remove your shoes and socks, and slowly dip your feet into the warm, natural hot spring water. The spring water gently envelops your feet, effectively soothing travel fatigue and promoting blood circulation. While soaking your feet, you can enjoy the surrounding natural scenery or chat with your companions. After soaking, dry your feet with the towels provided. It's a simple yet therapeutic hot spring experience.
7. What items are recommended to bring when visiting outdoor attractions in Nasu Shiobara?
When visiting outdoor attractions in Nasu Shiobara, we recommend bringing comfortable shoes suitable for walking to explore areas like the Momiji-dani Suspension Bridge or Sessho-seki. Since your trip involves outdoor activities, please prepare clothing according to the season: for summer, bring sun protection, a hat, and light clothing; for autumn and winter, pack warm jackets, scarves, and other cold-weather gear. Additionally, a light rain gear, a portable power bank, and a camera are practical items for capturing beautiful memories and preparing for weather changes.
8. What are the recommended photo viewpoints for Momiji-dani Suspension Bridge, Sessho-seki, and Nasu Highland Yuyuu Hiroba?
At the Momiji-dani Suspension Bridge, the best photo viewpoint is from the center of the bridge, which allows you to frame the long suspension bridge itself along with the valley below and the dense forests on both sides. The scenery, especially the magnificent autumn foliage, is spectacular. For Sessho-seki, we recommend capturing the unique volcanic rock formations from different angles, with the dispersing sulfurous mist in the background to create a mysterious and distinctive atmosphere. At Nasu Highland Yuyuu Hiroba, you can capture the expansive highland scenery or combine local characteristic architecture and shops with the natural landscape for photos rich in local flavor.
