Mount Nantai

A Majestic Peak Rising on the Northern Shore of Lake Chuzenji

Mount Nantai is one of the representative peaks of the Nikko Mountains, standing at 2,486 meters. Towering over the northern shore of Lake Chuzenji, it offers magnificent scenery.

Since ancient times, the mountain has been revered as a sacred object of worship. At its summit stands the Okumiya Shrine of Futarasan Shrine. Mount Nantai is also called “Futarasan.” The name “Futarasan” originates from the Buddhist term “Fudaraku.”

Every year, a mountain-opening festival is held on July 31, and from midnight on August 1, many worshippers begin their pilgrimage from Futarasan Shrine’s Chugu Shrine, heading toward the summit to greet the sunrise.

In addition, Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, Ryuzu Falls, and the surrounding grasslands and fields at the foot of Mount Nantai were all formed by volcanic activity of the mountain.

The official climbing season runs annually from April 25 to November 11. Starting from Futarasan Shrine’s Chugu Shrine, the climb to the summit takes about 6 to 8 hours round-trip.

※Climbing fee is 1,000 yen per person.
※Reception hours are from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
※Entry is not permitted after 12:00 noon.
※Please bring your own bear bell.

Location Map

Basic Information

Address	Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
Telephone Number	0288-54-2496
Price	Climbing fee: 1,000 yen
DIRECTIONS	From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, take a Tobu bus bound for Yumoto Onsen (about 55 minutes), get off at “Futarasan Jinja Chugu Shrine,” and walk to the trailhead.
Map Code	735 059 428*08

Nikko Area

The Nikko area, in the northwestern part of the prefecture, is particularly mountainous. In the midst of the rich nature, including the 2,486-meter-high volcano Mt. Nantai, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls, there are numerous shrines and temples that are registered as UNESCO Cultural Heritage sites. From Kinugawa Onsen to Kawaji Onsen, hot springs can also be found throughout the area. There are a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy as well, such as stand-up paddleboarding in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter.