Hangetsuyama

Hangetsuyama (半月山), also known as Half-Moon Mountain, is a small mountain located in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. The mountain is famous for its panoramic views from the “Hangetsuyama Observatory” located near the summit. From the observatory, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area, including Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, Mount Nantai, the Senjogahara marshland, and Hachioji Island.

Visitors can hike to the Hangetsuyama Observatory via a trail that begins near Chuzenji Temple. The hike is relatively short and easy, taking around 30 minutes from the first parking lot to reach the summit. From the summit, it takes an additional hour to hike down to Mujina Kubo on the shore of Lake Chuzenji via Hangetsu Pass. The entire hike offers beautiful views of the natural landscape and a peaceful atmosphere.

Hangetsuyama is especially popular in the autumn, when the leaves of the trees in the area change color, creating a stunning display of fall foliage. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the mountain and enjoy the colorful scenery.

To get to Hangetsuyama, you can drive up Irohazaka Slope towards Lake Chuzenji or take a bus to the first parking lot of Hangetsuyama. Please note that the parking lot may get full during the peak autumn foliage season, so using public transportation is recommended.

Getting there

By Bus

From JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station:

• Take a Tobu bus bound for Chuzenji Onsen
• Transfer to the Chuzenji Skyline bus bound for Hangetsuyama
• Get off at Hangetsuyama No.1 Parking Lot
• Journey time: About 70 minutes
• Cost: 710 yen for the Skyline portion
• Note: Skyline bus operates only from July-August to early October-November

By Car

• Drive past Chuzenji Temple on Highway 250
• Follow the winding Chuzenjiko Skyline road
• Park at the parking lot about 3/4 up the mountain

From Parking Lot to Summit

• 30-45 minute hike along a steep nature trail
• Proper hiking shoes recommended

Mt.Hangetsu Observation Deck

Hours	Open 24 hours The Chuzenji Lake Skyline is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Admission	Free
Address	Ashiomachi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1511