Lake Yunoko

Lake Yunoko north of Nikko takes its name from the hot springs that line its shore. The lake itself was formed when lava and debris from Mt. Mitsudake blocked the Yugawa River. A 3-kilometer trail circles the perimeter, and the area around the lake is part of the Oku-Nikko Wetlands, a registered Ramsar Convention site. Further on, Konsei Pass straddles the Gunma and Tochigi border at over 2,000 meters, offering wide views across Oku-Nikko. The pass sits along a traditional Shugendo pilgrimage circuit and holds a small shrine, Konsei Jinja, accessible from the parking area. The road closes in winter.