Cycle Through Okunikko's Autumn Foliage

In autumn, the hills of Okunikko transform into beautiful fall colors. One of the best ways to experience the striking scenery is to rent a bicycle and pedal through the less-traveled side of Okunikko. Ride at your own pace and enjoy the red and yellow hues reflected in Lake Sainoko and Lake Chuzenji. The foliage along this roughly 4.5-hour route is at its peak in early to mid-October. Staying the previous night at Yumoto Onsen or on the shores of Lake Chuzenji allows you to avoid the traffic jams on Irohazaka Slope that are common during prime leaf-peeping season.

Setting off to Odashirogahara Plateau

Start your day by renting your bike at the Sanbonmatsu-Chaya Eco-Tourism Center (by the Sanbonmatsu bus stop). Before you depart, head across the road and take in the autumn scenery of the Senjogahara Plateau from the Senjogahara Observation Deck. Then hop on your bike and proceed down the road past the Akanuma Nature Information Center until you reach the road for low-emission buses. For the following stretch of the route, cyclists must stay on this road to protect the natural environment, being sure to yield to the occasional passing bus. Follow this road until you reach Odashirogahara Plateau. In autumn, the grasses of this marshland turn shades of red, orange, and yellow, matching the surrounding area's foliage. The one lonely birch tree standing among the grass offers an interesting photo opportunity.

The serene shores of Lake Sainoko

After passing the Yumihari Pass, the ride is mostly downhill. Coast down to the Sainoko-iriguchi bus stop, hop off your bike, and walk about 25 minutes through colorful trees to reach Lake Sainoko. The out-of-the-way location of this small lake (1.5 kilometers in circumference) means it has one of the quietest lakeshores in Nikko. Bask in the sounds of water, bird songs, and the whistling wind as you view the Manchurian ash trees surrounding the lake's sandy shores. Lake Sainoko used to be part of the much larger Lake Chuzenji, but soil and sand naturally dammed and separated it over thousands of years.

A quieter side of Lake Chuzenji

Head back to your bike and cycle onward to Senjugahama Beach on the west side of Lake Chuzenji. This stretch of the famous lake's shoreline is less visited and much calmer than the northern end. Here, you can unwind and relax after your ride with views of Mt. Nantai towering over the water—particularly pretty in fall. After a calming stroll along the shore, continue along the same path to head back to Sanbonmatsu and return your bike.

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Areas of Nikko

Central Nikko

The heart of Nikko combines World Heritage shrines and temples, traditional cuisine and crafts, and lush natural settings. Add a trip to this area to a stay in surrounding regions, such as Kinugawa Onsen.

Okunikko

Located in the center of Nikko National Park, Okunikko includes the marshlands of Senjogahara, Mt. Nantai, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls. The area has many hot spring retreats and inns.

Kinugawa-Kawaji Onsen

Set along the Kinugawa River, this area is one of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts. Beyond ryokan and hotels, there are theme parks and many natural attractions. Kinugawa is a good base for further Nikko adventures.

Yunishigawa, Kawamata and Okukinu Onsen

This area is known for its remote location and restorative waters. Enjoy a relaxing escape as you explore undeveloped nature and hot springs.

Imaichi

Historically an inn town, Imaichi is now the gateway to the greater Nikko area. With soba-making lessons, sake breweries and a host of seasonal festivals, Imaichi merits a long stop before heading on to Nikko Toshogu or Kinugawa Onsen.

Ashio

Ashio is most famous for its copper mine, which flourished for over 400 years. Visitors can ride trolleys down the 700-meter long mining tunnel and get a feel for the mine as it once existed.