Ryuzu Falls to Yudaki Falls Trail

The Ryuzu Falls to Yudaki Falls Trail links two of Okunikko's signature waterfalls via the Senjogahara marshland in Nikko National Park, Tochigi Prefecture. The route begins at the Ryuzu Falls trailhead, reached by Tobu Bus from Chuzenjiko Onsen (about 35 minutes, ¥1,050), and runs 5.6km one-way northward past Senjogahara to Yudaki Falls at the outlet of Lake Yunoko. Elevation gain is gradual, rising about 85m from Ryuzu Falls (1,393m) to Yudaki Falls (1,478m), and the walk takes 2-3 hours one-way at a comfortable pace. The path alternates between forest dirt track along the Yukawa River, wooden boardwalk sections through the open Senjogahara marsh, and a final stretch of packed earth and stone steps beside Yudaki Falls. Shade varies from dense birch and larch canopy near the falls to fully exposed boardwalk across the marsh. Notable points along the way include the Ryuzu Falls rapids and teahouse at the start, the Izumiya rest hut partway through Senjogahara, and the thundering 70m cascade of Yudaki Falls near the finish. There are rest facilities and refreshments at both trailheads, though no huts along the mid-section, so hikers should carry water for the crossing.