Off the Beaten Path in Japan: A Family Adventure to Nasu Highland Park

🎡 Discover Japan’s Most Family-Friendly Amusement Park: Nasu Highland Park


Entrance to Nasu Highland Park – peaceful even on weekends!

Looking for a Japan destination that’s family-friendly, crowd-free, and full of fun? Skip the typical Tokyo Disneyland trip and explore one of Japan’s best-kept secrets:
Nasu Highland Park, tucked away in the scenic mountains of Tochigi Prefecture—just a few hours from Tokyo.

We visited with our two kids (ages 4 and 1.5) and had an unforgettable mini getaway that we think every traveling family should consider.


🌿 Why Nasu Highland Park?

✅ Off the beaten path
✅ Perfect for young kids
✅ Very few crowds, even on weekends
✅ One of Japan’s most pet-friendly amusement parks


🗺️ Easy Access from Tokyo

The road to Nasu offers breathtaking mountain views.

Nasu Highland Park is about:

  • 🚗 2.5 hours by car from Tokyo or Saitama

  • 🚅 Or take a Shinkansen to Nasushiobara Station and rent a car for the final leg

📍 Open in Google Maps


🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Epinard Nasu


Our home for the night – spacious and family-friendly.

📍 Google Maps
🔗 Official Website (English)

This resort hotel is incredibly family-friendly, with spacious Japanese-Western rooms, child-friendly amenities, and delicious buffet meals.


The low counter buffet for kids – adorable and practical!

🛁 Bonus: There’s a large public bath (onsen-style)—a perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.


🎢 Let’s Play! Best Attractions at Nasu Highland Park


Our son’s favorite: MOGURA – The Cave Adventure!

Here are some of the attractions our kids loved most:

  • MOGURA – Cave Adventure: Kids wear helmets and go treasure-hunting inside an artificial cave.

  • Flying Submarine: Water ride with surprise jets. Bring a change of clothes!

  • River Adventure: Spinning ride with water splashes.

  • 3D Wooden Maze: A massive wooden structure with hidden photo spots!

 


Climb to the top of the maze for awesome views and photo ops.


🐶 The Most Pet-Friendly Amusement Park in Japan


Yes, dogs can ride too!

  • Dogs are allowed on many rides

  • On-site dog café and dog run

  • Perfect for travelers with furry companions
    👉 Pet Info (Japanese)


📷 Photo Gallery Highlights


Our kids had the time of their lives – priceless smiles!


Caught mid-splash – you will get wet!


The Woopy Coaster – small but surprisingly fast!


🎌 Why International Travelers Should Visit

Most foreign tourists flock to major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto—but Nasu offers something special:

  • 🍃 Fresh air and beautiful scenery

  • 👶 Child-centered hospitality

  • 🐾 Pet-friendliness you won’t find in big cities

  • 📸 Better photo opportunities thanks to fewer crowds

🎟️ Tickets & Info: Nasu Highland Park Website (EN)


📌 Save These Links

📍Nasu Highland Park Map: Google Maps
📍Hotel Epinard Nasu Map: Google Maps
🛏️ Hotel Site: https://www.epinard.jp/english/
🎢 Park Site: https://www.nasuhai.co.jp/en/


✈️ Final Words

Nasu Highland Park is truly a hidden gem that combines fun, comfort, and culture. Perfect for:

  • Families with young kids

  • Couples with dogs

  • Travelers who want to explore beyond the typical tourist route

ABOUTこの記事をかいた人

外資系の会社に勤務する4歳と1歳半の子供のパパです。 英語がまったく喋れないけど海外出張に行ったりしてます。 ・【趣味】:サッカー/旅行/写真/DVD映画鑑賞/漫画 ・【目標】:TOEIC700点(現在400点....) ・【将来】:世界中・日本中を旅行したい!!