Nantaisan Tohai Kosha Taisai (Mt. Nantai Climbing Festival)

Welcoming the Sunrise at the Summit – A Breathtaking Experience

Climbing Mt. Nantai, a Sacred Site in Nikko

The Tohai Kosha Taisai is the largest festival of Futarasan Jinja Shrine Chugushi, and has been held continuously for over 1,200 years since the late Nara period. Deeply rooted in the worship of Mt. Nantai, the festival takes place annually from July 31 to August 7. During this period, many visitors climb Mt. Nantai to pay their respects.

In addition, pilgrims can climb Mt. Nantai at night during the festival. This allows climbers to reach the summit and witness the sunrise. At the shrine office, participants can receive items such as amulets, climbing certificates, sacred water, and coffee.

Every year, around 2,000 climbers gather at night for this event. Before dawn, they set out, reaching the summit at around 4:40 a.m. to witness the rising sun. The sight of the glowing sun emerging from behind the sea of clouds is a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. The festival continues with rituals and ceremonies at the mountaintop.

Location Map

Basic Information

Address	2484 Chugushi, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
Telephone Number	0288-55-0017
Website	http://www.futarasan.jp/
Date	Annually from July 31 to August 7
Venue	Futarasan Jinja Shrine Chugushi (2484 Chugushi, Nikko City) and Okumiya Shrine (Mt. Nantai summit)
Map Code	947 268 564*60

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.