🏞️Senjōgahara Plateau: Nikko’s Most Scenic Nature Walk

Senjōgahara Plateau: Walking into a Living Landscape

Stepping onto the Senjōgahara Plateau Nature Trail ⭐⭐feels like entering a living landscape painting. Set in the heart of Nikko National Park, this high‑altitude marshland stretches out in quiet, open layers—so peaceful it feels worlds away from Tokyo’s pace.

Yudaki Falls to Ryuzu Falls: The Park’s Most Scenic Route

Yudaki Falls to Ryuzu Falls: The Park’s Most Scenic Route

The route from Yudaki Falls to Ryuzu Falls is widely considered the most scenic in the park. It descends gradually from the highlands near Yudaki into the lower valley where Ryuzu Falls awaits. On the day of our visit, a group of local students was hiking the same path, bringing a lively energy to the otherwise quiet marshland. At the end of the trail, a small cafeteria (龍頭之茶屋) offers a welcome place to rest. Its balcony overlooks the cascading waters of Ryuzu Falls—a perfect spot to pause before heading back.

A Note on Safety: This beautiful route occasionally has bear sightings. Carrying a small bell on your backpack is a simple way to alert wildlife of your presence and encourage bears to move away.

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On November 6, 2025, we followed this scenic route from Yudaki Falls to Ryuzu Falls. The sound of rushing water, the sweep of the marshland, and the vibrant autumn foliage created a calm, immersive rhythm throughout the walk.Stepping onto the Senjōgahara Plateau Nature Trail feels like walking straight into a living landscape painting. Set in the heart of Nikko National Park, this high‑altitude marshland offers a sense of quiet vastness that feels worlds away from Tokyo’s pace.

Boardwalks Through Wetlands and Forest Edges

The trail is famous for its beautifully maintained elevated boardwalks, guiding hikers across wetlands, streams, and forest edges without disturbing the fragile terrain. The gentle rhythm of wood underfoot adds to the calm of the walk.

Yudaki Falls — Where Onsen Waters Meet the Mist

Yudaki Falls (湯滝) is a powerful and majestic waterfall located at the southern edge of Lake Yunoko. It marks the dramatic point where the lake’s waters begin their journey down toward the Senjōgahara Plateau via the Yukawa River.

Ryuzu Falls — "Dragon’s Head Falls"

Ryuzu Falls is one of the most stunning and unique natural landmarks in Nikko National Park. Located on the Yukawa River just before it flows into Lake Chuzenji, it is celebrated as one of Nikko’s "Three Great Waterfalls."

The Perfect Finish: A Tea House Retreat at 龍頭之茶屋

The autumn colors at Ryuzu Falls were already fading during our late‑season visit, the leaves slipping past their peak. Around Lake Chuzenji, though, you can still catch glimpses of the remaining fall foliage—small pockets of color holding on a little longer.