TOC
Kirifuri Plateau (Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture) — Overview (History, Features, and Attractions)
Kirifuri Plateau is a plateau area that stretches south of Lake Chuzenji and the Nikko Mountain Range in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, at an elevation of roughly 1,200 to 1,400 meters. Formerly developed as a summer resort and ranch, it is now a popular tourist destination where you can enjoy seasonal natural scenery (day lilies in early summer, alpine plants in summer, autumn leaves, and snowy winter scenery). Many days are shrouded in mist, hence the name "Kirifuri" (mist).
Features and attractions
- A view of the vast plateau and the Nikko mountain range.
- It is famous for its early summer Nikko Hemerocallis colony (Kisugehira Park), and the sight of yellow flowers blooming all over the place is breathtaking.
- The mist and sea of clouds create a fantastical landscape, and the changing light in the morning and evening is beautiful.
- You can easily enjoy nature by hiking, picnicking, driving, etc.
Highlights
- Kisuge-daira Park: The best time to see the day lilies (a highland flower similar to the day lily) is June to July. There are walking paths and observation decks.
- Around Kirifuri Falls: The waterfall (Kirifuri Falls) near the entrance to the plateau has an impressive waterfall landscape, and there is a walking route so it is easy to visit both places.
- Ranch scenery and the direction of Ozasa Ranch: There are ranches scattered nearby that have facilities where you can interact with cows and sheep, as well as shops where you can taste dairy products.
- Viewpoint: Enjoy panoramic views of the Nikko mountain range, sea of clouds, and other distant views from the observation deck and parking lot on the plateau.
- Hiking trails: There are several trails, from short walks to more serious trails that connect to the routes in Nikko National Park.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Nikko Station / Tobu Nikko Station (both "Nikko" stations).
- Public transportation from the station:
- Tobu Bus and JR Bus routes depart for Kirifuri Kogen and Ozasa Ranch (the number of buses varies depending on the season). The journey time is approximately 30 to 50 minutes depending on the route and stops.
- Buses run infrequently, and during peak season they may be crowded or have special services, so please check the timetable in advance.
- car:
- From Nikko Station: Generally, it takes about 20-30 minutes by car (depending on road conditions).
- From Tokyo: Take the Tohoku Expressway and head towards Nikko via Utsunomiya IC. The travel time will vary depending on your departure point and route, but it will generally take around two hours from Tokyo.
- Parking: Paid and free parking is available at Kisuge-daira, the observation point, the ranch, etc. (varies by facility).
- Note: In winter, roads may be frozen or snowy, and traffic restrictions may be in place. When traveling in winter, we recommend bringing studless tires or chains, and checking road information.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short-term viewing and photography: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Walking and viewing at Kisuge-daira Garden: 1-2 hours (may take longer during the flowering season due to crowds)
- Half-day tour including farm tour and snacks: 2-4 hours
- If you are planning to hike and visit other nearby spots: 1 day (all day)
Nearby spots
- Kirifuri Falls: A famous waterfall near the entrance to the plateau. It can be reached by a short walk.
- Ozasa Farm: A farm where you can enjoy dairy products and Jingisukan, as well as hands-on experiences and interactions with animals.
- Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple: Nikko's historic shrines and temples (within a 20-30 minute drive).
- Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls: A representative tourist spot in the Oku-Nikko area (approximately 30-40 minutes by car).
- Oku-Nikko trekking spots such as Senjogahara and Lake Yunoko: Perfect for combining with nature walks.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: During the peak season for day lilies (late June to July) and the autumn foliage season (mid-October to early November), many visitors come, and parking lots and roads become congested. Please consider leaving early in the morning and using public transportation or temporary parking lots.
- Weather changes: The weather on the plateau is changeable, with fog and sudden drops in temperature. Be sure to bring warm clothing and rain gear.
- Walking and shoes: The walking trails are unpaved and muddy in places. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Protect the plants: The flowers and vegetation of the plateau are precious. Please do not pick or trample on the flowers, and please stay on the designated paths when viewing them.
- Garbage and Manners: Please be sure to take your garbage home with you or dispose of it at the designated area. Please be considerate of those around you regarding noise and bonfires.
- Winter precautions: Snow and frozen roads may result in road closures and chain restrictions. Please check social media and road management information in advance and be sure to have the necessary gear.
- Mobile phone/first aid: There are places in the mountains where you won't have cell phone reception. When hiking for long periods of time, it's a good idea to prepare a map, headlamp, first aid kit, etc.
Kirifuri Highlands is a place where you can enjoy the changing faces of the seasons. Please enjoy nature safely by wearing appropriate clothing and equipment for the season you are visiting.
