A spectacular view of Kurinso and autumn leaves! Sentegahama Beach in Oku-Nikko

  • Tochigi
  • Sightseeing
Sategahama beach and Mt. Nantai (Photo by Konishi Hotel, Oku-Nikko)
Have you ever heard of Senjugahama beach in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture? Located at the western end of Lake Chuzenji, it is a beautiful beach known only to those in the know and inaccessible by ordinary cars. The scenery of the 2-kilometer-long beach, Lake Chuzenji with its high transparency, and the majestic Mt. Although it is located deep within Oku-Nikko, it is easily accessible, and in addition to nature, wildlife may also be seen. Along with the glamorous part of Lake Chuzenji, why not experience the charm of this serene place?

Shodo Shonin and Sentegahama Beach

Chitegahama Beach is said to be the place where Shodo Shonin, the founder of Nikko, saw the golden Senju Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) in the lake. Lake Chuzenji, the center of Oku-Nikko, is dotted with temples and shrines and cruises on pleasure boats, and the glamorous part of the lake is attracting a lot of attention.
Cruising on a sightseeing boat

June, when the kurinoso (flowering plants) are in full bloom

The first recommended time to take a stroll is in June, when the kurinoso (flowering plants) are in full bloom. On the beach that stretches 2 kilometers from north to south of Sentegahama Beach, the kurinso (Japanese silver leafed lily) blooms in June. It is truly a treasure trove of untouched nature! The green of the trees, the sunlight filtering through the trees, and the clear, transparent waters of the beach are just breathtaking. This is one of the quietest places in Lake Chuzenji, so you can take your time to enjoy nature.
Kurinso (photo courtesy of Konishi Hotel, Oku-Nikko)
The kurinso is believed to have originated in Japan, and its beautiful flowers attract visitors, just like its flower language, which says, "Happiness piled up". The pretty pink and purple flowers are in full bloom, and many people visit to catch a glimpse of them.
Lovely Kurinso (lily of the valley)

Autumn, when the trees change color

Usually from mid-October to November, the Mizunara oak and Haru elm trees, which are over 200 years old, change color. In the early morning, the warm surface of the lake becomes misty and the morning sun shines through, creating a fantastic sight.
Autumn leaves

Access to Sentegahama Beach

No cars are allowed on the lake, which can be reached by bus, on foot, or by sightseeing boat. Please note that cruising on Lake Chuzenji, which stops at Chitegahama beach, is available only in June. For those who want to fully enjoy nature, hiking is recommended. The beautiful scenery that can only be seen at this time of year in Nikko is a must-see.

The low-pollution buses that run from Akanuma are convenient for accessing Chitegahama Beach, providing easy access to the deepest part of Oku-Nikko, where you may see wild animals as well as nature. Why not experience the charm of the deep nature and quiet place as well as the glamorous part of Lake Chuzenji?
Nantai-san (photo courtesy of Oku-Nikko Konishi Hotel)
For reservations for train + accommodation "Tochigi Area", please contact 【 JR East View Dynamic Rail Package 】
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