Shiobara Valley in Tochigi Prefecture

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Facts & Figures

The Shiobara Valley along the Hokigawa River is part of the Nikko National Park within the Tochig Prefecture. The area near Mount Nasudake (1917m), an active volcano, is a great hiking place, famous for its hot springs (Nasu Onsen and Shiobara Onsen), waterfalls, and untouched nature. Canyoning is another attraction, which gets here more and more popular. There are approximately 100 waterfalls in the Shiobara Valley. The best time of the year to visit this beautiful place is during the colorful autumn season. My tip: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Nikko, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan.

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History

Shiobara Valley is famous for its hot springs. Shiobara Onsen is a health resort with seven different types of spas with a history of over 1200 years. Many well-known artists and writers like Natsume Soseki (1867 -1916) and Ozaki Koyo (1868 - 1903) have visited this place. More than 50 monuments can be found in this town to honor those famous artists who came here for an onsen visit. In 2005 the decision was made to form a new city called Nasushiobara which consisted of Shiobara, the city Kuroiso, and the town Nishinasuno. It is the northernmost city in the Kanto region.

Sightseeing spots in and around Shiobara Valley

Top:

Momijidani Suspension Bridge next to the Shiobara Dam - It is with 320m the longest suspension bridge within the Shiobara Valley and one of the longest in Japan.

Ryuka-no-taki - This impressive waterfall with a height of 60m and a length of 130m is flowing over three levels.

Mikaerino-Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge - You must enjoy the panoramic view from the highest bridge in Shiobara. The suspension bridge was built in 1987 and is 100m long and 30m above the ground.

Mikaeri-taki - The waterfall reaches a height of 20m and is located close to the Mikaerino-Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge.

Shiobara Valley Hiking - There are two recommended hiking paths: the Yashio hiking course (passing by the Hokigawa Dam) with about 3.7km recommended for families and the more challenging Mikaeri hiking course with 3.3km.

Kotarogafuchi - This old teahouse deep in the forest offers traditional Japanese snacks in an amazing landscape setting. It is my insider tip for you.

Nanatsu-iwa - 7 uniquely shaped rocks can be seen from the Nanatsu-Iwa Suspension Bridge.

Shiobara's Eleven Hot Springs - There are 11 hot spring spots located within the Shiobara Valley, which are - Arayu, Fukuwata, Ooami, Shiogama, Shionoyu, Hataori, Monzen, Furumachi, Nakashiobara, Kamishiobara and Motoyu. It is heaven for onsen lovers:)

Waterfalls (taki) - The top 10 waterfalls in the valley are Mikaeri-no-taki, Ryuka-no-taki, Suren-no-taki, Fu-no-taki, Hoko-no-taki, Raitei-no-taki, Osutobi-no-taki, Nana-no-taki and Senshin-no-taki.

Nearby:

Nikko - The city is full of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The absolute highlight there is the famous Toshogu Shrine. Read more >

Mount Nasudake - The area around the active volcano Mt. Nasudake is a hiking paradise and you should enjoy a relaxing time at the Nasu Onsen hot spring resort.

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

September

Shiobara Onsen (hot spring) festival (mid-September)
The festival is held to show the appreciation of hot springs in this area.