Nasushiobara City · Sessho-seki—A Land of Mysterious Kitsune Legends!

Hey everyone! Today, let's explore a legendary spot in Japan—Sessho-seki (Killing Stone) in Nasushiobara! ✨ This isn't just a sulfurous volcanic rock; it's a mystical place deeply connected to the legend of the nine-tailed fox! 📖🔥 ⸻ ⛱️ Must-See Highlights: 🦊 Legend of the Nine-Tailed Fox—Legend has it that Tamamo-no-Mae, a nine-tailed fox disguised as a beautiful woman, was subdued by a sorcerer and transformed into Sessho-seki, a stone that constantly emits poisonous gas, leaving the surrounding area barren for millennia! 👀 The legendary "demonic aura" still lingers in the air, adding to the mystery! 🌫️ 💀 "Land of Death"—The rocks here still exude a strong sulfurous smell, and the ground is barren, as if it were a forbidden zone left in the real world! 🧌 ⛩️ Onsen Shrine & Fox Statues—This shrine is dedicated to the mystical fox deity, and you can see many adorable fox statues. Don't forget to pray for good fortune! 🙏 🚶 Recommended Hiking Route—Walk from Onsen Shrine to Sessho-seki, enjoying the volcanic landscape of Nasu Highlands and the steaming hot springs along the way. The atmosphere is amazing! 🌋💨 ⸻ 🍜 Food Guide: ✔ Nasu Milk Ice Cream 🍦—Made with fresh milk from Nasu Highlands, it's rich and satisfying, perfect for enjoying while you explore! ✔ Onsen Manju (Steamed Buns) 🍡—Red bean paste buns steamed with hot spring water, offering a warm and sweet treat! ✔ Tochigi's Famous Yuba Dishes (Tofu Skin) 🥢—Try the Yuba Udon noodles; the rich broth paired with the smooth tofu skin is a perfect match! ⸻ 🏨 Accommodation Guide: 🏡 Nasu Onsen Ryokan—After visiting Sessho-seki, relax and unwind at a nearby Nasu Onsen hot spring resort! ♨️ 🏯 Nasu Yumoto Onsen · Shika-no-Yu—The hot springs here are said to have powerful healing properties. You can even try the high-temperature hot spring challenge! 🔥 ⸻ 🚄 Transportation Guide: 🚆 From Tokyo: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Nasushiobara Station, then transfer to a bus to Nasu Yumoto Onsen Station. Sessho-seki is about a 5-minute walk from there. 🚌 Recommended for Road Trips: Take the Tohoku Expressway and exit at Nasu IC. It's about a 20-minute drive from there. ⸻ 💗 Other Tips: ✔ Best Time to Visit 🍁—Autumn and winter are the best seasons to visit. The autumn leaves 🍂 combined with the sulfurous steam create a breathtaking view! ✔ Praying to the Fox Deity 🦊—Remember to toss a coin and make a wish. It's said to be particularly effective for career, wealth, and relationships! ✨ ✔ Beware of the Sulfur Smell ⚠️—The sulfur smell can be strong in some areas, so sensitive individuals may want to wear a mask! 💡 If you love mysterious legends, volcanic landscapes, or want to experience the real aura of the nine-tailed fox legend, Sessho-seki is your dream destination! 🔥🦊