The Seasons of Oku-Nikko: Winter
Snow in Oku-Nikko starts falling in November. In December, Lake Yunoko and the Ryuzu no Taki Falls partially freeze over. On particularly chilly days, snow blankets all of Oku-Nikko, and hard rime (ice crystals) covers the landscape, creating a stunning winter scene. During this season, some of the smaller cascades of the Kegon no Taki Falls freeze as well.
Visitors can enjoy winter sports and other activities, including skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoe trekking. Winter poses more safety risks compared with the other seasons, and it is recommended that travelers explore with a guide at this time of year. In addition to outdoor activities, winter is also an ideal season in which to enjoy the warm, therapeutic waters of natural hot springs, such as those in Oku-Nikko Yumoto Onsen, a traditional hot spring area with a long history.