Satoyama Life: Adventures & Dining in Shiobara Onsen

Tochigi Prefecture , Japan

Satoyama Life: Adventures & Dining in Shiobara Onsen

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience the refreshing wellness and retreat activities in the nature of Shiobara, away from the daily hustle.
Learn about the satoyama lifestyle that harmonizes with nature, making you appreciate Shiobara even more.
Explore with an outdoor guide who knows the mountains of Shiobara inside out, ensuring a safe adventure.
After the activities, enjoy a semi-outdoor meal with local delicacies and interact with locals in a way that's unique to Shiobara.
Participate in the program and contribute to the preservation of the satoyama and the Shiobara community.

Available options

Satoyama Life: Adventures & Dining in Shiobara Onsen

What's included

Insurance during the program

Lunch

Winter: Free rental of Nordic poles for those who wish (limited quantity)

What's not included

Drinks during the natural activities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Recommended Items to Bring： Water bottle for hydration during activities , Snacks (chocolates, candies) , Insect repellent (summer)

Clothes： Wear clothes that can get dirty and are easy to move in, and long pants that cover the knees

Recommended for participants aged 4 and above

If you have children aged 3 or under, please consult us. Partial participation may be possible in some cases

Generally, one bag per person similar to what you would carry for daytime sightseeing is assumed; if you have a lot of luggage, please consult us in advance

We also accept consultations for group participation, so feel free to contact us

In case of cancellation due to bad weather, you will be notified via the email address registered at the time of application (decision made at least two hours before the event; if the weather is questionable, the event will generally not proceed)

If it rains lightly without affecting the activity, it will go ahead as planned. Please understand this in advance

Please take your own measures for waterproofing your smartphone and preventing injuries during the walk

Depending on the natural conditions on the day, such as weather and lake conditions, the course may change

Understand that there are risks of injury in the natural environment and consider joining your own insurance

The program is designed to be manageable even for beginners, but if you are unwell or have concerns, please refrain from participating

Although we have insurance and measures in place for unforeseen circumstances, nature is unpredictable. To minimize risks, always follow the guide’s instructions during the program

Meeting point

Meeting point：Next to Pension Gasthof Yumekiko
Nakashiobara 347-2, Nasushiobara-shi, Tochigi, 329-2924
Access：2-minute walk from the "Myojinshita" bus stop on the Yu-Bus

About Tochigi Prefecture

Tochigi Prefecture is known for its natural beauty, historic temples, and hot springs. It is home to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and offers a mix of cultural heritage and outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Nikko Toshogu Shrine

A UNESCO World Heritage site and the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. It is famous for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture.

Historical 3-4 hours Moderate (1,300 JPY for the outer grounds, 3,000 JPY for the inner shrine)

Kegon Falls

One of Japan's most famous waterfalls, located in Nikko National Park. It is a stunning 97-meter drop surrounded by lush greenery.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (access to the park may require a fee)

Shinkyo Bridge

A sacred bridge and the gateway to the shrines and temples of Nikko. It is one of the three most famous bridges in Japan.

Historical 30 minutes Free (unless you want to cross it, which requires a fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gyoza

Pan-fried dumplings filled with pork and vegetables, a popular street food in Utsunomiya.

Snack Not vegetarian or vegan, contains gluten.

Soba Noodles

Buckwheat noodles served cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth, a staple in Nikko.

Dinner Vegetarian options available, contains gluten.

Yuba

Tofu skin, a delicacy in Nikko, often served in soups or as a topping for soba noodles.

Dinner Vegetarian, contains soy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Nikko National Park White-water rafting in the Dabason River Soaking in hot springs Picnicking by Lake Chuzenji Visiting Nikko Toshogu Shrine Exploring Oya History Museum Swimming in Lake Chuzenji Boat tours on the Daiya River

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring offers cherry blossoms and mild weather, while autumn provides colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tochigi is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a peaceful environment. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi companies and shops

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 150 km

By train

Utsunomiya Station, Nikko Station

By bus

Utsunomiya Bus Terminal, Nikko Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The train network is efficient and covers most of the prefecture, including Shinkansen services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nikko Utsunomiya

Day trips

Kashima Shrine

50 km • Half day

One of Japan's most important Shinto shrines, dedicated to the Shinto deity of martial arts and war.

Oya History Museum

10 km • Half day

A museum showcasing the history of the Oya stone industry, with underground tunnels and exhibits on local history.

Festivals

Nikko Festival • October Utsunomiya Gyoza Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Try local specialties like gyoza in Utsunomiya and soba noodles in Nikko.
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and year.
Consider staying in a ryokan for a traditional Japanese experience, complete with tatami-matted rooms and onsen baths.
Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transportation.