New and fun experiences in Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen

Tobu Railways will begin operating a daily, vintage steam locomotive service from late July.  This nostalgic train called SL Taiju – meaning “Steam Locomotive Great Tree” — will run between Shimo-imaichi Station — near Nikko’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and Kinugawa Onsen Station – with access to the area’s famous therapeutic hot springs. The name was chosen in honor of the first Tokugawa Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, who was nicknamed Taiju. 

Outdoor Activities in Nikko / Kinugawa Area

With an altitude of 1269 m, Nikko’s Lake Chuzenji is Japan’s highest lake. A great summer respite away from Tokyo, the Lake now is a popular spot for stand-up paddleboarding.   SUP!SUP! offers a range of options – a beginners’ experience to short tours that include some famous diplomat summer residences. It’s history, culture, and outdoor adventure all in one!

Rafting, Canyoning, Boat Rides

The Kinugawa River is particularly well-known for the dramatic beauty of its natural river valley. Here, an array of water activities allows visitors the opportunity to feel at one with nature. NAOC Rafting Tours, led by experienced guides, provides safe rafting experiences. The trip carries rafters past various waterfalls and cascades, which can only be conquered through the cooperation of everyone in the boat. Canyoning is a thrilling river sport giving participants firsthand experience of the outdoors. Canyoning guests dive into waterfall pools and glide down rocky slides. The Kinugawa River Boat Ride is a captain-steered, 40-minute boat trip down the Kinugawa River. It is a wonderful and refreshing way to experience the river valley scenery often with a splash. 

SL Taiju Tickets

All seats on the Taiju are reserved and can be purchased at Tobu Tourist Information Center Asakusa on the first floor of Asakusa Station, or at Shimoimaichi Station from concierges who can communicate in many languages.

Reserved seat ticket: 750 JPY (adult) / 380 JPY (child)

Website: https://www.tobu.co.jp/en/ticket/online.html