Irohazaka

Japan | 6.7 km

Irohazaka is a pair of winding switchback mountain roads, one up and one down, located in Tochigi Prefecture and connecting downtown Nikko with the higher elevations of the mountainous Okunikko region. This scenic winding course has 48 curves, 20 on the high road and 28 on the lower, named after the letters of the ancient Japanese alphabet. With an elevation change of 440 metres, the road offers views of some of the most beautiful autumn foliage in Japan and its many turns provide plenty of vantage points.

While only a short route, the winding design provides stunning riding and the Akechidaira Plateau at the top offers spectacular views of the valley as well as Mount Nantai. As it’s a quick journey, you may want to travel it in both directions to make sure you see absolutely everything on offer.

Sea of Happiness
Irohazaka leads to Lake Chūzenji and Kegon Falls, two major sightseeing spots in one. Water from the beautiful Lake Chūzenji – also known as the Sea of Happiness – plunges down off a cliff as the Kegon Falls.

Click here to view this route in the Harley-Davidson Ride Planner and start planning your next adventure.

Originally published in 2023.

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