Nasu Heisei-no-Mori & Komadome Falls

For most of the last century, this stretch of old forest on the flank of Mt. Nasu belonged to the Imperial family and was closed to ordinary visitors. In 2011 it was opened to the public as Nasu Heisei-no-Mori — and it remains one of the most beautifully kept, peaceful patches of woodland in the region.

Why It’s Interesting

It’s a forest with two moods. The Fureai-no-Mori zone offers easy, well-built boardwalk trails anyone can stroll, while the deeper Gakushu-no-Mori can be explored on ranger-guided walks that keep its old-growth character intact. The reward at the end is the Komadome Falls, a roughly 20-metre cascade you reach via an overlook. After the crowds of the highland attractions, the hush here — birdsong, leaves, falling water — is the whole point.

Best Time to Visit

Cool and green in summer; the late-October to November foliage is gorgeous and far quieter than Nasu’s famous spots.

Getting There

Easiest by car from the Nasu Yumoto road; bus from Kuroiso plus a walk or taxi otherwise. Start at the free field center.