What other travelers are saying about Mount Nantai
Awesome hike on a well marked trail, must do while in Nikko. Steep elevation gain, took us 5 hours return. The trail is mainly covered by trees, with limited exposed spots so you remain protected from rain or the sun. The peak is exposed for the last 20 minutes with panoramic views of the Nikko National Park. Experienced snow in early November, which was not predicted - it was beautiful but ensure you are prepared for the change in weather at the summit, it can get very cold!
The best times for hiking are from late June to early October. During these months, the weather is generally clear, and the trails are less likely to be covered in snow or ice.
While it is possible to hike Mount Nantai without a guide, having a guide can enhance safety and provide valuable local knowledge. For those unfamiliar with the area or inexperienced hikers, joining a guided tour may be beneficial.
The hike to the summit typically takes around 4 to 6 hours, depending on the route chosen and the hiker's pace. It's advisable to start early in the day to ensure enough time for the ascent and descent.
The best way to reach Mount Nantai is by taking a train or bus to Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. You can use local transportation or taxis from Nikko to get closer to the trailheads.
The trail starts with a Torii gate and you have to pay to do it - 1000yen. It starts very steep and already at the start you can see monkeys. Don’t forget to buy a bear bell - you can buy at the stores close by. It took us around 6 hours up and down.
Pretty good hike! Fairly steep at the start and cold on the top so bring layers. Mt Fuji was visible as it was a clear day.
Need 1000¥ cash at start and you need to start before 12 o’clock
Great hike but it’s challenging.
I recommend grippy shoes, my trainers were super slippery and it’s quite dangerous, I fell down a few times, thankfully only small cuts
My tips for tourists/foreigners wishing to do this hike (as of May 2025)
TLDR: entrance closes at 12, wear shoes with grip (!) - it is slippy, bring at least 2 litres of water
- entrance to the trail is 1000 yen, I think cash only.
- CANNOT enter after 12pm
- 1.100 meter elevation gain. this hike is STEEP
- wear proper shoes, I wouldn’t recommend this in normal trainers. You will need shoes with grip.
- the snow close to the top, and the gravel near the summit is very slippy, sticks/poles could be a massive help.
- bring at least 2 litres of water, also electrolyte water could be good.
- there are a lot of bug swarms at the top, bug spray would’ve been helpful.
- seemingly there are monkeys, I didn’t see any but something to beware of if you planning to bring food.
- bring food! It is a long hike. At least 6 hours including some rest time so you will want some energy.
- there is no bins located along the trail. Or toilets. The only toilet is at the temple you enter. You must pay 100 yen for paper :/
Overall, amazing hike even on a cloudy day. I started at 11am and was down by about 5pm with minimal stops other than a good rest at the top. Most of the trail is on scramble trail which is pretty steep. There is a section you walk along a winding road. The start of the trail is through some really nice woodland, but again, steep! And it only gets worse 🤣
