2024 Nikko Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Nikko | 100 times less popular than Kyoto, it's a part of Japan you've never been to.

Nikko is located in the Kanto region, 👀 a city in the northern part of Tochigi Prefecture, about 2 hours' drive from Tokyo. 🤔 Many domestic friends may be unfamiliar with the name Nikko, but it is a popular place for viewing maple leaves among Tokyo locals, and it is no less popular than Kyoto~ At the same time, ✅ the hot springs here are as famous as Hakone and Atami, and it's so cool to take a bath while watching the red leaves~ - You can go to Irohazaka and Kanto's top red leaf spot "Lake Chuzenji" to see the maple leaves in Nikko, 💥 as well as the "Ryuzu Falls" where the red leaves and waterfalls are in the same frame. Among them, Irohazaka, I have to say more❗️ It is one of the representative beautiful sceneries of Nikko and a slope road leading to Lake Chuzenji. Because there are 48 bends, the red leaf scenery here is more dangerous and beautiful! By the way~ 🙈 This is also one of the classic locations of the famous anime "Initial D". - Hot springs! In addition to Kinugawa Onsen! Nikko Yumoto Onsen is also worth choosing! This hot spring town is located in the deep mountains near Lake Yuno (Lake Yunoko). If you have time and are interested, you can walk to the nearby Yunohei Marsh, which is the source of the hot springs. There you can see a group of low wooden houses with equipment such as water pumps for extracting hot spring water.

Nikko's Akechidaira Ropeway - Scenic Views Through the Seasons

If you've ever wanted to find a place near Tokyo where you can experience a 'bird's-eye view,' then the Akechidaira Ropeway is your perfect choice! Not only can you enjoy the thrill of the ropeway, but you can also indulge in a visual feast from high above, as if you're dining on the scenery in the sky! When you step onto the Akechidaira Ropeway, get ready for a roughly 3-minute aerial journey. Make sure to have your camera ready because you'll be treated to breathtaking views! As the ropeway ascends, the scenery outside the window becomes increasingly spectacular with the rising altitude. As the ropeway climbs, the panoramic view of Nikko City gradually unfolds. The distant mountains look like a watercolor painting, vibrant and colorful, showcasing the wonders of nature. The Akechidaira Ropeway is suitable for all seasons. When I visited, it was winter, and the snowy mountains were right before my eyes. However, if you want to experience the most stunning scenery, autumn is definitely the best season. During this time, the leaves turn red, orange, and gold, making the entire valley appear as if it's on fire. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery while imagining yourself as an autumn fairy dancing among the trees with the wind. Spring's cherry blossoms, summer's lush greenery, and winter's snowy landscapes all offer different charms on the Akechidaira Ropeway. No matter which season you choose, remember to bring your camera because every moment here is worth capturing! 💰 Average Cost: Round trip for adults 1000 yen 🗓️ Itinerary: You can plan to visit in the morning, take the ropeway, and then explore Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.

A Deep Dive into the History and Art of Nikko Toshogu Shrine

As one of Japan's most important shrines, Nikko Toshogu, located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder and first shogun of the Edo period. Walking into this shrine, I could feel its profound history and culture. Built in 1617 and completed in 1636, the shrine is renowned for its splendid architecture, intricate carvings, and rich decorative arts. Its design incorporates elements of both Shinto and Buddhism, showcasing the pinnacle of Japanese architecture of the time. At Toshogu, I was particularly captivated by the following features: - Yomeimon Gate: Known for its exquisite carvings and golden decorations, this gate is a significant entrance to the shrine and never fails to amaze me each time I see it. - Elaborate Carvings: The shrine's interior carvings, including the famous 'Sleeping Cat' (Neko) and 'Monkey' (Sarutahiko), embody the essence of traditional Japanese art, deeply immersing me in the cultural heritage. - Five-Story Pagoda: This pagoda is part of Nikko Toshogu and showcases exquisite architectural skills, with each level reminding me of the craftsmanship spirit of that era. Nikko Toshogu was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, attracting numerous visitors. I also found a moment of peace here, experiencing the unique culture and history, as if traveling back to that glorious era.

Nikko, Near Tokyo - One of Japan's Three Famous Waterfalls

Kegon Falls, located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, is one of Japan's three famous waterfalls, alongside Fukuroda Falls in Ibaraki Prefecture and Nachi Falls in Wakayama Prefecture. The water source of Kegon Falls comes from Lake Chuzenji, where the lake water cascades down a 97-meter-high cliff, creating a spectacular waterfall scene. The waterfall is surrounded by dense forests, offering different sceneries in each season: lush greenery in spring, cool and refreshing in summer, vibrant autumn leaves in fall, and hanging icicles in winter, making it a breathtaking sight. Visitors can take an elevator to the viewing platform at the base of the waterfall to experience the majestic force and splashing water up close. Kegon Falls was designated as a National Scenic Spot in Japan in 1931 and was selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Geological Sites in 2007. It is a must-visit attraction in the Nikko area. Kegon Falls offers different beautiful sceneries throughout the year, but the best time to visit is in autumn (October to November) when the mountains are covered with vibrant autumn leaves, making the scenery particularly magnificent. Winter at Kegon Falls has its unique charm, with the surrounding water forming spectacular icicles, creating a beautiful blue ice scene. These icicles sparkle in the sunlight, resembling crystal-clear crystals. The winter scenery of Kegon Falls not only showcases the wonders of nature but also gives a sense of tranquility and grandeur. Visitors can admire these icicles from the viewing platform and experience the unique cold and beauty of winter. 📍Address: 2479-2 Chugushi, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture 🏖️Environment/Facilities: Free viewing at the top, paid viewing platform at the bottom for a more impressive experience 🕰️Opening Hours: March to April, November: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM May to September: 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM October: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM December to February: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM 💰Average Cost: Adults: 570 yen Children: 340 yen 💞Recommended Reason: Viewing platform at the base of the waterfall for a close-up experience 🗓️Itinerary: Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine in the morning, then head to Kegon Falls, followed by Lake Chuzenji and Ryuzu Falls in the afternoon, and finally relax at Oku-Nikko Yumoto Onsen.

Nikko|It must be the limit for my personal day trip around Tokyo

It must be the limit for my personal day trip around Tokyo. The reason why it's considered the limit mainly lies in two aspects: The first is the limit of effort. Starting from the Tokyo metropolitan area (such as Ueno), it's about 110 kilometers, roughly 1500 yen, and takes two and a half hours to arrive. The return trip costs 3200 yen by limited express, taking more than two hours to return. Both the time spent and the cost are the limits for my day-return trips. The second is the limit of gains. As a World Heritage site, Nikko has both cultural historical relics and natural scenery, with information fully packed. With mountains, water, and temples, and various experiences to enjoy when the weather is good, it is a perfect tourist destination away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Here's my travel route: In the morning, I set off from Ueno, arrived at Tobu-Nikko Station, wandered around after getting off, and walked to Shinkyo Bridge, a stunning red amidst the greenery. Even more surprising was the 300 yen fee to cross the bridge, and the exit was still sealed off... From the sealed-off exit opposite Shinkyo Bridge, I entered a small grove and headed to Rinno-ji Temple. Friends who are not interested in religion can just take a look from the outside. Like me, spending over 400 yen to enter and being glared at by unknown deities was simply a loss. After that, I followed the signs to Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which is the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu and one of Japan's most lavish shrines. The admission fee was 1600 yen, worthy of the great shogun, contributing to Japan's revenue with utmost dedication. I don't know much about history, but the carvings here felt very exquisite, especially the 'Three Wise Monkeys' and the 'Sleeping Cat' carvings, which were quite charming. Leaving Toshogu, I went to Rinno-ji Temple's Taiyuin Mausoleum (part of the earlier Rinno-ji ticket), and there were still a few autumn leaves inside, making me imagine the beauty of this place during the fall foliage season... From Taiyuin, I walked to Futarasan Jinja Shrine. This shrine worships the deity of Mount Nantai and has a history of over 1200 years. At the entrance, there's a wooden drum for praying for good relationships, with a merit box placed beside it. I took a right turn from the exit in front of Futarasan Jinja Shrine and took a bus, where I encountered the most beautiful Lawson 2.0 The final stop was Lake Chuzenji, a beautiful volcanic crater lake. It exists so comfortably, with the greenery of the surrounding mountains and the rippling blue waves, I couldn't help but imagine how the autumn leaves by the lake must be breathtakingly beautiful. Kegon Falls, located a two-minute walk from Lake Chuzenji, is one of Japan's three famous waterfalls. The waterfall is about 97 meters high, and from the observation deck, you can feel the magnificence and shock of the waterfall up close. The lower observation deck costs 570 yen. After an hour on the bus, is this additional 500+ yen really necessary? In summary, Nikko is truly a versatile tourist destination. You must choose a day with good weather to go, as sunny days make historical sites less gloomy, and the natural scenery under the blue sky and white clouds is simply unbeatable. Even though the transportation and sightseeing costs are high, the experience is really good, and I must return during the autumn foliage season.

Ginzan Onsen

Limited winter scenery in Japan❄Ginzan Onsen➕Zao Tree Ice Two Days|||Friends who didn't go to Ginzan Onsen and Zao Tree Ice last year👀Don't miss it this year🌿Must check in for winter travel in Japan‼️Experience the Taisho romance in the fairy tale world —— 【Ginzan Onsen➕Zao Tree Ice Two Day Tour】 🎡Itinerary 🎈DAY1 🔹8:00 Depart from Tokyo 🔹10:30 Tochigi Toshogu 🔹17:00 Ginzan Onsen 🔹19:20 Yamagata/Zao Onsen Hotel 🎈DAY2 🔹9:00 Depart from the hotel 🔹9:30 Zao Tree Ice 🔹14:00 Zao Fox Village 🔹20:00 Arrive in Tokyo ——

Discover amazing Nikko Toshogu Shrine

#fallishere It’s was such an amazing experience when we visited this historical site . Many beautiful heritage buildings and tree around the area, it will be wonderful when you visiting during autumn. The whole place will change into the colors of falls! Natural colors was added to the historical site . It required ticket to enter to the site our ticket including in the tour . Suggest you to take tour package to visit here as out of town area . Lovely place to visit highly recommended ! 👍🏻 #awesomepic #couplestrip

Exploring Nikko World Heritage in Japan

#fallishere Nikko is a small city in Japan Tochigi prefecture , in the Moutains north of Tokyo. there are many interesting place to visit here as follow;- 1. Nikko Toshogu 2. Kevin Falls 3. Lake Chuzeji 4. Senso-Ji temples 5.Hitachi Seaside Park. it’s interesting to visit here as you able to see other other side of Japan . it’s totally different from what you see in the city. lovely place and recommended to visit . we love it. #couplestrip #awesomepic

Autumn in Nikko Toshogu 🍂🍁

Nikko Toshogu Shrine - The most renowned shrine of “the Shrines and Temples of Nikko”-a UNESCO world heritage site where Ieyasu Tokugawa, the great Shogun who started the Edo Period, is enshrined. Most of the shrine complex you see today was rebuilt in 17th century. The shrine contains 55 buildings including 8 national treasures and 34 listed buildings. The highlights are many colorful buildings which are richly decorated with gorgeous carvings. Do not miss the symbol of peace “Sleeping Cat”, and the “Three Monkeys” with the “see no evil, hear no evil and speak no evil” poses! It was already closed when we got there so we didn't see what's inside. We went in November, most of the leaves fell. Best time to experience autumn in Nikko is prolly October. It's extremely cold in Nikko so just be ready. Location: 2301 Sannai, Nikko-city, Tochigi Prefecture #helloautumn

The Sea of Happiness ☺️

Lake Chuzenji is in Nikko National Park in the city of Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. It is located at the foot of Mount Nantai. There are many activites that you can do; swan rides, kayaking, sightseeing boat cruise, etc. We went late fall, and unfortunately, most of the leaves were gone. It would have been perfect to see a mountain of fall leaves 🍂🍁 The lake is stunning tho 🤩🤩🤩 #nationalpark #nikko #tochigi #japan #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic

The most beautiful day trip from Tokyo !!!

Nikko!! Nikko is a small city in Japan’s Tochigi Prefecture, in the mountains north of Tokyo. It’s the site of Toshogu, the famed Shinto shrine and a lavish memorial for Tokugawa Ieyasu, founding ruler of the Tokugawa shogunate, or Edo Period. Cool weather, quiet environment and beautiful landscape make Nikko to be one of the most accessible day trip from Tokyo, especially to me who don’t like Tokyo crowds , I always try to go out from the city to escape . Nikko have everything that Japan represents for , ancient temples and shrine , mountains, lake and waterfalls. As the person, who like to hike and explore Japan rural landscape, this is the best choice I have made , and also my dream Kumano Kodo trials continuation of mount yoshino and mount koyasan. Actually, this area can get crowded when you come late ( late meant you each here by 10-11 am) but to me as a early bird , I always try to take first train , so when I reach to Nikko , I am one of a few who took first local bus to explore the area without crowd. If you have JR pass , all transportation from Tokyo to Nikko are covered by the pass except for local bus . There is three different bus route to explore the area, depend on what you are interested to . Bus -A explore temples and shrine areas . Bus -B explore onsen areas and Bus -C explore waterfall , lake and hiking trails start . Since I am early than first bus, I explore temples area by foot and wait for Bus C to follow waterfall and lake. One important reminder is , take photo of the buses timing , and come back in time if you don’t want miss and waited long time , sometimes you might even miss last bus 🤭🤭. Then you have to walk for 20-30 km to the station 😝😝. Make sure you put in your calendar to visit Nikko once you are in East side of Japan . See you on the other side of the world 🌎!! #solotravel #japan #naturelover

Autumn 🍁 at Lake Chūzenji, Nikko, Japan 🇯🇵

Getting There - The best way to get here is by bus (JR). You can stop at JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station. Attractions - Chuzenji Lake Observation Deck Hotels - The Ritz-Carlton, the suit room with lake view . This is the best hotel that you can have Lake Chūzenji window view but it’s a bit pricey. Food & Restaurants - A lot of Lakeside restaurants like Chuzenji Lakeside Boathouse Shopping - A lot of local souvenir store like 日光彫 歌ヶ浜 山田屋 #nikko #japan

Shrines and Temples of Nikkō in Japan 🇯🇵⛩️

Address - 2301 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1431, Japan Ambiance/Facilities - Japanese Shrines & Temple Highlights - one of The UNESCO World Heritage Site Avg. Price per Person - around 3000-3500 THB ticket to get to Nikkō Tōshō-gū (the main) but you can walk around to see the small buildings outside Rating - 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ There is combined building between two Shinto shrines and one Buddhist temple. In the autumn, it’s perfect time to visit because you will see the change of 🍁 leaves color. #nikko #temple #japan

hunter mountain

Miss Elly’s beautiful Lake Chuzenji, Nikko.

Where should we start? Nikko nice beautiful quiet small city in the Tochigi Prefecture in the mountains north of Tokyo. There is a few beautiful attractions here but Miss is going to focus on one now. Lake Chuzenji is a beautiful lake above the Nikko town. It takes about 45 minutes from Nikko Station to Lake Chuzenji. The bus journey is beautiful climbing up the mountains with a fantastic view of the cool mountains foliage. Once you reach the top there is more beautiful views to see. Your eyes will going around every where just admiring the view. The air is so fresh and crisp. The lake view is amazing. When Miss Elly was there she see the the local tourist loves to visit. There is a handful of foreign tourists which is good. A place that you should put in your itinerary. Miss Elly suggestion would be stay in Nikko for a minimum of 2 nights or like Miss Elly she stays there for 3 nights. Miss Elly manage to visit most of the place but she still feels there is more to see. Go and visit you won’t regret it. #miss_elly69 #missellyadventure #missellyjapan #missellynikko

Tobu world square- Japan

The world popular buildings of each country. mini structural buildings. Tobu World Square located in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. #tobuworldsquare #japan

When your heart is filled with warmth

#celebratewithtrip This is the Yunishigawa Onsen Kamakura Festival that takes place every year from late January to early March ~ It is located at Yunishigawa Onsen, Nikko, Tochigi prefecture. It is a one hour bus ride from JR Kinugawa Onsen Station. A walk along the Sawaguchi riverbed is the best way to enjoy this unique illumination. The river bed are lined with hundreds of small kamakura huts. Enjoy a stroll around the candlelit river or enjoy the view from a bridge that looks over Sawaguchi.

Autumn Leaves in Nikko

I just went to Nikko from Asakusa station with Tobu Line. They offer discount pass about 2k yen for 2 days. By purchasing this pass, you don't need to pay anything anymore for the transportation that is affiliated to Tobu. We didn't use limited express so we needed to transfer train about 2 times by using local train. It took us 3-4h to arrive at our destination. It was so tiring but so worth it since my friend and I wanted to go somewhere outside Tokyo and watch Koyo (autumn leaves in Japanese). However we were a bit late so we couldn't see much there. If we came a week earlier it would be a perfect time to see koyo. It was still nice tho since we could taste Nikko's local foods, any kind of product from Yuuba (tofu's skin). #fallingforfall #nikko #japan

#christmasgiveaway

Spectacular New Property In Historic Nikko😍

N.#christmasgiveaway #mapletrees #luxuryhotel #skiing #nationalpark #decembertravel #nyedestinations #unforgettableexperiences

Nikko is a peaceful city

nestled in the northwestern part of Tochigi prefecture. From Tokyo, it can be reached in approximately 2 hours by train, making it a perfect weekend trip destination. It is home to Nikko Toshogu, a world-famous Shinto shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. He was the first Shogun of Tokugawa Shogunate which once ruled the entire country for 260 years from the beginning of the 17th century. The original establishment of the shrine dates back to 1617, and it has been visited by numerous tourists as a symbolic structure listed on UNESCO World Heritage Site along with other historical sites in the Nikko area. You can explore the sacred shrine grounds full of magnificent buildings, including 8 National Treasure and 34 Important Cultural Properties. Kegon Falls is another popular spot which offers a refreshing experience in nature with an impressive scenery created by the beautiful waterfall and surroundings! #culturalattractions#nationalpark

the beauty of nature. #naturelover #autumn #mynovgetaway#awesomepic

#triplocal #nikko #autumn

#tripaway It’s in canton of bern in Switzerland,Breathtaking and amazing views.They are real I couldn’t believe my eyes .Switzerland is its own kind of paradise anyone can dream of or can imagine.Definitely heaven on earth.A must visit.We had a nice time you can have a good time too!! #tripaway

went to Nikko-Shi in Tochigi to have some relaxing time and it was absolutely amazing. I had a great time staying at a ryokan, the Japanese traditional style of hotel, and onsen was also great too. #happynewyear

When I hear a place described using the words “best” or “most”, I become skeptical of the claim. Sometimes I’m even disappointed upon visiting, since not every place warrants such high praise. However, that was not the case with Nikko Toshogu Shrine- it absolutely lives up to the hype of being called Japan’s most lavishly decorated shrine. Once you’re at the foot of Sakashita-mon Gate, get ready to climb a flight of 207 stone steps within the tranquil forest backdrop until you reach the tomb of Ieyasu. While the climb may seem daunting, Nikko’s stunning natural surroundings make the trek to the tomb more than worth it. #givethanks #givethanks

Futarasan Shrine is a centre of worship located in the Nikko Mountains at Tochigi, Japan. It is famous for Matchmaking shrine. Many visitors come to pray for good luck and success in love. The entrance is free, but if you visit the garden the entrance ($2) is required. I recommend you to visit the garden and drink spring water inside. Or try the fortune telling. The shrine is accessible on foot or by bus from Nikko Station. The walk takes about 45 minutes from Nikko Station along with the pleasant forest-lined roads. Nature beauties and large trees make you relax and refresh the mind. We spent around two hours to walk all the area. It’s very close to the natural forest. #givethanks #givethanks

Although the waterfall is one of the three major waterfalls, it is the smallest of the four waterfalls, namely, Huayan Waterfall, Longtou Waterfall, Wuyue Waterfall and Tangzhi Waterfall. However, it is also the most unique one. It is a double waterfall. Especially when the red leaves go, the gradient leaves and the two waterfalls are very beautiful. In addition, the best location for viewing the waterfall is in the tea house. It is impossible to use a tripod. There are still quite a lot of people who can't stay too long. It is recommended to come together with the original battlefield, and the autumn red leaves are the most beautiful.

Kinugawa Onsen 鬼怒川之美

Kinugawa Onsen (鬼怒川温泉) is a popular hot spring resort town along the Kinugawa River in Tochigi Prefecture

A bit foggy but Kegon Falls’ beauty is still amazing! Taken on Nov 7, 2024. A must see!