Tokyo and Around Tokyo:Stunning Spring Nature Worth Travelling For

It’s back – restriction-free, independent to and around Japan! Time to dust off those pre-pandemic travel plans and start planning an itinerary that will do the long wait justice. Tempting as it might be to hope on a plane as soon as possible, it’s arguably worth holding out for what is Japan’s most spectacular season. Spring is when Japan bursts into life again, thanks to blossom brought by the balmy weather: cherry, of course, but also plum, azalea, wisteria, and rapeseed.

This tranquil lake is located in the lush surroundings of Oku-Nikko (Inner Nikko) and is an ideal spot for trying out the “forest bathing” (spending time in rich natural surroundings) so beloved in Japan. At the southern edge of the lake you’ll find Yudaki Falls, a breath-taking 110m waterfall with an elevation of 70 meters and a length of 110 meters. Hike around the lake to take in the area’s awesome nature: you’ll find Rhododendron and cherry blossoms in abundance in May.

Getting there: 80min by Tobu Bus from Tobu Nikko Station to Yumoto Onsen.

Combine with: a stay in a traditional ryokan hotel in Yumoto Onsen, a hot spring resort just next to the lake.

The Akechidaira Observation Desk, standing at an elevation of 1,373 meters, offers an incredible panoramic view of many of Nikko’s top spots, including Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji. Visit in May to see the Yashio Azalea, a species native to mountainous regions of Japan, in full and glorious bloom. Take the Akechidaira Ropeway up to the Observation Deck or hike up on a trail starting from Lake Chuzenji (it should take about two hours, one way).

Getting there: Take the Tobu Bus bound for Yumoto Onsen or Chuzenji Onsen and alight at the Akechidaira bus stop (approx. 40min)

Combine with: a stay in a traditional ryokan hotel in Chuzenji Onsen, a lakeside hot spring resort.

Senjugahama is a lakeside beach along the banks of Lake Chuzenji and in the shadow of Mt. Nantai. In spring, it bursts with the colour and scent of wild cherry trees and azaleas. You can hike along the lake to the beach from Shobugahama Campsite, with some beautiful viewpoints along the way.

Getting there: Take the Tobu Bus bound for Yumoto Onsen and alight at the Akanuma bus stop (approx. 60min) then take the Low Emission Bus and alight at the Senjugahama bus stop.

Combine with: if you’re up for a challenge, a hike up to the top of sacred Mt. Nantai, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains.

 Covid Restrictions and Travel

From October, all restrictions on travel and Coronavirus quarantine have been lifted in principle. However, to enter Japan travellers will have to provide proof of vaccination status (vaccination certificate), register for an account with Visit Japan Web, and complete an arrival questionnaire.

A Certificate of Testing is only required from those individuals who do not hold proof of vaccination status. Children are exempt from requiring proof of vaccination and obtaining a Certificate of Testing, provided they are accompanied by an adult holding one or the other.

Tobu’s Commitment to COVID-19 Countermeasures

The Tobu Group is committed to implementing appropriate measures to protect our customers and visitors from the risk of infection. At TOKYO SKYTREE, we’ve introduced a suite of measures including enhanced cleaning schedules, masks and other PPE for employees, and temperature checks for visitors on entry. Visitors are also required to wear masks for the duration of their visit. We’ve also introduced similar measures on our trains, for example regular disinfection of train interiors and ensuring windows are kept open for better ventilation. Passengers are also requested to wear masks while on our trains.

Find out more about measures here.

Tobu Railway also operates Global Website, an English language website providing extensive information about the destinations across its network to inspire and enable visitors to plan their travel in detail.

Tobu Railway is part of the Tobu Group, which also operates health clubs, golf courses, theme parks, and hotels, and develops and manages condominiums, housing developments, department stores, and various other properties along its railways and in Tokyo, most notably TOKYO SKYTREE, the world’s tallest tower.