On the way up the winding NR 120 from Nikko to Lake Chuzenji is a small rest stop overlooking the slope and road below. Here snacks and ice cream can be purchased, but the reason we stopped was the Akechidaira Ropeway and its amazing view.

After paying the small fee we boarded the cable car and rode up to the viewpoint. On the way up and back down we were able to get a clear view of the descending portion of the NR 120, the famous Irohazaka. This road zigzags even more than the one on the way up and it was very cool to see the line of cars slowly weaving their way down. This road has also been featured in the anime Initial D.

From the platform there’s a great view down the mountain we just ascended of Nikko and the valley beyond.

The best view is on the opposite side. Here the platform overlooks Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji behind it. This view was breathtaking. We were fortunate to have some clouds overcast during the late afternoon which allowed for some light rays to breakthrough over the lake and surrounding mountains.

The only thing that could have made it better was if we weren’t a few weeks late of seeing the fall colors around the lake. While the main part of Nikko still had leaves falling, the much higher elevation Lake Chuzenji had already finished losing its leaves. Even without the the colors blanketing the mountains around the lake the view was spectacular.

Google Maps Link: Akechidaira Ropeway