Nasushiobara City | A Romantic Escape to Nature

In the northeastern part of Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, lies the picturesque city of Nasushiobara. Not far from Tokyo, it feels like a hidden paradise, exuding unique charm in every season. With an average annual temperature of 12.1°C, cool summers, and snowy winters❄️, it offers a different kind of beauty no matter when you visit. Now, take this guide and embark on a dream trip to Nasushiobara! Embrace Nature, Explore Stunning Attractions • Nasu Onsen: Dating back to the 8th century, Nasu Onsen is one of Japan's oldest hot springs. It boasts diverse water qualities, from mildly acidic to sulfurous, each with its own unique characteristics and health benefits. Immerse yourself in an open-air hot spring nestled in the mountains, enjoying the nourishing warmth while admiring the surrounding natural beauty, allowing your body and mind to fully relax. We recommend the Shiobara Onsenkyo, which not only has abundant hot spring resources but also a unique hot spring culture, such as the "Shiobara Eleven Baths." Each hot spring has its own story and characteristics, worth exploring one by one. • Onuma Park: The forest trails of Onuma Park are filled with a mystical, fairytale atmosphere, as if stepping into a scene from a Studio Ghibli film. Follow the path to its end, where you'll find a wide and tranquil lake, shimmering under the sunlight. In summer, it's a perfect place to escape the heat and observe the adorable "forest green frog" and the world's smallest dragonfly, the "scarlet dwarf."🦟 In autumn, the park transforms into a tapestry of gold and crimson, becoming a famous spot for autumn foliage viewing in Tochigi. • Kinomata Valley: The Kinomata River, a tributary of the Naka River, is known for its clear, ethereal blue-green waters and the surrounding beautiful valley. The forests along the riverbanks offer different scenery in each season, from fresh greenery in spring to fiery maple leaves in autumn🍁. In summer, it's a popular spot to cool off and play in the water, attracting many visitors to enjoy the refreshing coolness. A Feast for the Senses, Savor Local Delights • Nasu Wagyu Beef: Nasu black-haired Wagyu beef is a signature dish of Nasushiobara, known for its tender texture, beautiful marbling, and melt-in-your-mouth flavor. At Steakhouse Juraku Honten, you can savor "Nasu Wagyu Dice Steak" cooked on a hot iron plate, its rich aroma lingering on your palate. Besides steak, you can also try shabu-shabu, sukiyaki, and other cooking methods to experience the diverse charm of Nasu Wagyu beef. • Local Cuisine: Nasushiobara also offers many unique local dishes. For example, "bamboo-steamed cuisine," where ingredients are steamed in bamboo tubes, preserving their original flavors and adding a hint of bamboo fragrance. There's also "onsen manju," a steamed bun with a soft exterior and sweet filling, a must-try delicacy. Grab one at a street-side shop after a long day of exploring, and you'll be filled with a sense of happiness. Practical Guide, Worry-Free Travel • Transportation: From Tokyo, take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen for about 70 minutes to Nasushiobara Station. From there, you can transfer to local buses, trains, or taxis to reach various attractions. If you plan to visit more remote areas, it's recommended to check the bus schedule in advance to avoid delays🚌. • Accommodation Recommendations: Nasushiobara offers a variety of accommodation options. For a hot spring experience, choose an onsen ryokan, such as Nasu Kogen no Yado Sansuikaku, where you can not only enjoy abundant natural hot springs but also savor special mountain kaiseki cuisine. For families, there are also many hotels with family-friendly facilities to meet everyone's needs🛏️. • Other Considerations: Check the local weather forecast before your trip and pack appropriate clothing according to the season. When enjoying the hot springs, be sure to follow the rules of the onsen facility, washing your body before entering the hot spring pool. Also, when trying local cuisine, don't hesitate to explore some lesser-known restaurants, where you might discover unexpected culinary delights! Nasushiobara, a city full of natural charm and gastronomic temptations, awaits your exploration and discovery. Come here to heal your soul in nature and enjoy an unforgettable journey💕.