Enjoying the Early Summer in a River Valley Sculpted by Nature. Recommended Water Activities in the Kinugawa Area.

Nikko and Kinugawa, areas surrounded by rich natural scenery, allow visitors not only to experience World Heritage Sites, but also to enjoy rafting, canyoning and other water activities beginning from the early summer onwards. The Kinugawa River is particularly famous for the dynamic beauty of its natural river valley, where, from early summer, various water activities give visitors the opportunity to feel at one with nature. We introduce some of those activities below.

◆Enjoying Water Activities on the Kinugawa River

1.NAOC Rafting Tour
NAOC started in 2000 as the first rafting operator in Tochigi Prefecture. The company, led by experienced guides, provides a safe rafting experience. Working on one of the tributaries of the Kinugawa River provides clear water and beautiful river valley scenery. The trip carries rafters past various waterfalls and cascades, which can only be conquered through the cooperation of everyone in the boat. Rafting on the Kinugawa River is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the four seasons.

Website: https://www.naoc-jp.com/9.php
Video: https://www.facebook.com/pg/naocjp/videos/

2.NAOC Canyoning
Participants in canyoning dive into waterfall pools and glide down rocky slides. To reach your destination, you'll also need climbing skills to pass through the water and wet rocks. Canyoning is a thrilling river sport giving you firsthand experience of the outdoors.

Website: https://www.naoc-jp.com/category/summerservice/canyoning

3.Kinugawa River Boat Ride
A boat trip down the Kinugawa River, with the captain steering the boat, is a wonderful way to experience the river valley scenery. On this thrilling, yet refreshing 40-minute trip down the river, try to avoid getting splashed!

Website: https://travel.tochigiji.or.jp/en/things-to-do/15/

◆Arranging Water Activities and other Excursions

Nikko Concierge
Within Tobu Nikko Station is a concierge service for foreign tourists, with staff ready to provide guidance in English, including arranging accommodation and local tours. Visitors can also pick up a copy of the Nikko Guide Map, available in nine versions including, English, traditional Chinese and simplified Chinese. In addition to the water activities introduced here, the concierge can also help you arrange a trip on Taiju, the steam locomotive operating between Shimoimaichi and Kinugawa Onsen, or Tobu World Square, an attraction celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Enquiries: nikko-concierge@tobu.co.jp