(Photo by Ekaterina Bespyatova)
The Akechidaira Ropeway, located just off the famous Irohazaka Winding Road in Nikkō, offers unsurpassable views over Lake Chūzenji and Kegon Falls from the top of a nearby mountain. The ride itself is short and not very exciting, but the views are of a kind you won’t get anywhere else.
Only here can you truly appreciate the amazing geology of this area, part of Nikkō National Park. The lake is surrounded by mountains on all sides but one, where its waters fall down in a straight line as if trying to escape the confines of its stone basin. Mount Nantai towers to the right, and from late October through November the mountain slopes are ablaze with colors. Winter will present you with the unforgettable sight of Kegon Falls turned into one giant icicle.
Of course, to be able to see all this you need to visit on a clear day. It may get quite chilly at the observation point at any time of year, so bring an extra layer. Also, be prepared to wait in line—Akechidaira is a popular tourist spot and gets crowded on weekends, especially during the fall season.
Getting there: From Nikko Station get on a bus going to Lake Chuzenji or Yumoto Onsen and get off at Akechidaira. If traveling by car, just follow the Irohazaka winding road to Lake Chuzenji—you will not miss the ropeway’s large parking lot. No matter what transport option you use, you will only be able to use the ropeway on your way up, not down, so plan accordingly.
Address: Hosoo Fukazawa, Nikko 321-1445, Tochigi Prefecture
The ride is really short - about 3 minutes. (Photo by Ekaterina Bespyatova)
Irohazaka, a road leading from central Nikko to Lake Chuzenji; you can climb it either by bus or by car. (Photo by Ekaterina Bespyatova)
(Photo by Ekaterina Bespyatova)
The colors are beautiful in late October. (Photo by Ekaterina Bespyatova)
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