Mt. Nantai is a scenic mountain located along the shores of Lake Chuzenji, in the town of Nikko. Mt. Nantai is a popular hiking. Standing at 2,486 meters (8,156 feet) tall, it’s one of the most iconic mountains in the region. The mountain is sometimes called the “Mount Fuji of Nikkō” because of its near-perfect conical shape. Mt. Nantai has significant cultural importance, worshipped as a sacred peak as part of Futarsan-jinja Shrine, found at the base of the mountain. The shrine’s founder, Shōdō Shōnin, was the first recorded person to climb the mountain in 767 AD, and ever since, it has been regarded as a spiritual pilgrimage route.
Hiking Mt. Nantai
Mt. Nantai is a popular hiking area, taking about a 5-7 hours to complete the return journey. The Mt. Nantai Hiking season commences from late April through to Early November. The trailhead commences at Futarasan-jinja Shrine, where climbers must register with the shrine and pay a climbing fee of 1,000 yen before starting the hike.
Along the walk, you’ll find numerous shrines and resting areas as you climb the mountain. The walk culminates at Nantaisan crater, which offers beautiful views of Lake Chuzenji and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Viewing Areas
Popular viewing areas of Mt. Nantai include the Lake Chuzenji shore, the Mt. Hangetsu Observation Deck viewing to the south of Mt. Nantai, and from the Akechidaira Ropeway.
Explore Nikko
Top Attractions
Lake Chuzenji
Scenic and relaxing lake town
Kegon Falls
One of Japan's most famous waterfalls
Toshogu Shrine
One of Japan’s most opulent and historically significant shrines
Shinkyo Bridge
Iconic Red Bridge in Nikko
Kirifuri Waterfalls
Two-tiered waterfall surrounded by beautiful forest
Hours and Admission (Mt. Nantai Hiking Trail)
- Hours: April to October 6:00am - 12:00pm
- 1,000 JPY
- Average Time Spent: 5-8 Hours (Return)
Accessing Mt. Nantai
Futarasan-Jinja, where the Mt. Nantai Trailhead is found, can be accessed by bus from JR Nikko Station using the Tobu Nikko Bus. The bus ride will take one hour, and cost 1250JPY. The bus between Nikko and Futarsan-jinja is covered by the Nikko All Area Pass.
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Where to Stay
Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel
A historic lakeside resort with onsen baths and stunning views.
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Nikko Station Hotel Classic
Popular historic western-style hotel in the heart of Nikko, perfectly located for exploring Nikko.
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