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Senjogahara Marsh (戦場ヶ原) is a beautiful highland marshland located in the Nikko National Park in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. Formed by a dammed lake created by a volcanic eruption of Mount Nantai, it has transformed into a vast wetland over thousands of years, becoming one of the most popular hiking destinations in the region, renowned for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife.
The marsh is situated at an altitude of over 1,400 meters and covers an area of approximately 400 hectares. It is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including rare birds such as the Japanese marsh tit and the Eurasian skylark, as well as various types of flora like lilies and irises.
Visitors to Senjogahara Marsh can enjoy hiking along the numerous well-maintained trails that crisscross the area, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the marshland itself. The marsh is especially popular during the autumn foliage season, when the area transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows.
A popular hiking route starts from Ryuzu Falls (竜頭の滝) and passes through Yudaki Falls (湯滝), a powerful 70-meter tall waterfall on the Yukawa River, the sole outlet of Lake Yunoko. The trail then continues through the Senjogahara Plateau before reaching the marsh. Along the way, hikers can also explore other natural attractions, such as hot springs and smaller waterfalls.
Senjogahara Marsh is not only a hiker’s paradise but also a haven for nature enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and observing the unique flora that thrives in this high-altitude wetland environment. Additionally, the nearby Odashirogahara Marsh offers another scenic hiking option for visitors to explore.
Getting there
By Bus
From JR or Tobu Nikko Station:
- Take the Tobu bus bound for Yumoto Onsen
- Get off at Sanbonmatsu bus stop for the observation deck (50 minutes)
- For hiking trails, get off at Ryuzu no taki or Yumoto Onsen
- Journey time: About 70 minutes
- Cost: Around 1700 yen one way
- Frequency: 1-2 buses per hour
By Car
- About 1 hour drive from central Nikko
Senjogahara Observation Deck (Sanbonmatsu)
| Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Admission | Free |
| Phone | +81 288-62-2321 |
| Address | Sanbonmatsu, Chuzenji, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1661 |
| Resources | https://www.visitnikko.jp/en/spots/senjogahara-plateau/ |
