Lake Yunoko
湯ノ湖
A remote lake at an elevation of 1,478 meters, formed by a lava flow from the eruption of Mount Nantai. Yumoto Onsen sits on its shore, and in winter the lake is popular for smelt fishing through holes cut in the ice.
A highland lake at 1,478 meters elevation
Formed when a lava flow from an eruption of Mount Nantai dammed a valley, Lake Yunoko sits at the highest elevation of Oku-Nikko's lakes, offering a quiet, remote atmosphere distinct from Lake Chuzenji. It also serves as the source of the stream that becomes Yudaki Falls.
Yumoto Onsen on the lakeshore
Yumoto Onsen, on the shore of Lake Yunoko, has a history said to date back to its discovery by the priest Shodo Shonin, and offers milky-white sulfur-spring baths. It's a popular base for enjoying Oku-Nikko sightseeing along with a hot-spring stay.
Winter smelt fishing through the ice
In winter, when the lake surface freezes over, ice-hole smelt fishing (wakasagi fishing) becomes a popular activity, drawing many anglers each year. In other seasons, the lake is enjoyed for camping, hiking, and canoeing, offering different attractions throughout the year.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
The lake surface, still cold from the remaining winter chill, and the fresh greenery of early spring can be enjoyed.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
A comfortable retreat from summer heat, popular for camping and hiking.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
The autumn leaves reflected on the lake's surface create a beautiful, picturesque scene.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
The lake freezes over, and ice-hole smelt fishing becomes a popular seasonal activity.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 1-2 hours for a lakeshore stroll
- Crowd levels
- Relatively quiet compared to Lake Chuzenji
- Best time to visit
- Weekdays during the fresh-green season or autumn-leaf season are recommended
| Address | Yumoto, Nikko, Tochigi |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open access for viewing (24 hours) |
| Admission | Free (smelt fishing requires a separate fee) |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 5 min walk from Tobu-Nikko Station (About 90 minutes by Tobu Bus bound for "Yumoto Onsen," then a 5-minute walk)