Nikko Discover Japan’s Historic & Natural Wonders ⛩️🌿
Why Visit Nikko?
Located just two hours from Tokyo, Nikko (日光) is a historic city known for its UNESCO-listed sites, stunning waterfalls, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or looking for an escape from the bustling city life, Nikko offers the perfect blend of tradition and nature. With attractions like Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the peaceful Lake Chuzenji, and the majestic Kegon Falls, Nikko is a must-visit destination for every Japan traveler.
🚆 How to Get There
Nikkō is a convenient day trip or overnight stay from Tokyo.
- From Tokyo: Take the Tobu Nikko Line from Asakusa Station (direct trains take about 2 hours).
- Alternatively, take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya, then transfer to the JR Nikko Line (around 1 hour 45 minutes total).
If you’re using a Japan Rail Pass, the JR route is covered. Tobu also offers discounted passes that include transportation and entry to sites.
Travel Passes:
Consider the Tobu Nikkō Pass or JR East Pass for discounts on transportation. See here for the regional passes
🗺️ Best Way to Explore
Once in Nikkō, most of the key sites are clustered near the Shinkyo Bridge and can be explored on foot:
- Walk or use the local Tobu bus to access the Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Shrine.
- For nature spots like Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji, take the bus up the scenic Irohazaka Winding Road.
- A Nikko All Area Pass or World Heritage Area Pass is great for bus transport.
🍁 Best Time to Visit
Nikkō is stunning in all seasons, but two stand out:
- Autumn (mid to late October) is famous for vibrant foliage around the temples and in the mountains.
- Spring (April-May) brings fresh greenery and fewer crowds than fall.
- Winter can be peaceful and magical with snow, especially at the shrines, though some mountain routes may be limited.
Try to visit early morning or weekdays to enjoy the shrines without tour group crowds.
🌸 Discover Nikko: Top 10 Sights
Nikko is a beautiful blend of history, nature, and spirituality. Here are the top 10 places you shouldn’t miss — from iconic landmarks to serene hidden gems.
🏯 1. Nikko Toshogu Shrine
A masterpiece of craftsmanship and Nikko’s most famous site, Toshogu is the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Its intricate carvings, gold details, and symbolic statues reflect the power and prestige of the Tokugawa era. The shrine complex includes over a dozen buildings in a peaceful forest setting.
✨ Insider Tip: Visit early or on weekdays to enjoy the site with fewer crowds — especially the famous Sleeping Cat and Yomeimon Gate.
📍 Location: 10–15 min bus or 30 min walk from Nikko Station
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥1,300
⏳ Time Needed: 1–2 hours
2️⃣ Shinkyo Bridge (神橋) 🌉
Elegant and sacred, Shinkyo Bridge marks the official entrance to the UNESCO World Heritage area. The bright red bridge spans the Daiya River and was historically reserved for imperial use. While you can admire it from nearby for free, you can also walk across it for a small fee.
✨ Insider Tip: The best photo is from across the road, where you can capture the full bridge with the river below.
📍 Location: At the foot of the shrine area, 5 min from the World Heritage zone
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥300 (to walk across)
⏳ Time Needed: 10–15 minutes (more if taking photos)
3️⃣Kegon Falls (Kegon no Taki)
One of Japan’s most famous waterfalls, Kegon Falls drops nearly 100 meters from Lake Chuzenji into a rocky gorge. There are two main viewing platforms — one free from above, and one via elevator that brings you closer to the base of the falls. It’s especially striking during autumn foliage season.
✨ Insider Tip: The elevator viewing deck gives the best up-close experience, especially on misty days.
📍 Location: Lake Chuzenji area, 30–40 min bus from Nikko Station
🎟 Entrance Fee: Free (top), ¥570 (lower platform via elevator)
⏳ Time Needed: 30–60 minutes
4️⃣ Lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖) 🚣♂️
A large, serene lake formed by a volcanic eruption over 20,000 years ago, nestled at the base of Mount Nantai. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, lakeside cafés, walking paths, and views of Mount Nantai. It’s a refreshing summer escape from the heat and a scenic highlight in all seasons.
✨ Insider Tip: Visit in autumn for vivid foliage reflecting in the lake — one of Nikko’s most photogenic seasons.
📍 Location: Next to Kegon Falls, 40 min bus ride from Nikko Station
🎟 Entrance Fee: Free (optional boat rides available)
⏳ Time Needed: 1–2 hours (more if walking around the lake)
5️⃣ Futarasan Shrine (二荒山神社) 🌿
Founded in 767, this sacred shrine honors the deities of Nikko’s three sacred mountains. Unlike the grandeur of Toshogu, Futarasan offers a more serene and spiritual experience. It’s located in the same forest as Toshogu and is part of the World Heritage site.
✨ Insider Tip: Explore the quiet forested paths behind the main hall for a peaceful break from the crowds.
📍 Location: Next to Toshogu Shrine
🎟 Entrance Fee: Free (¥200 for the inner shrine area)
⏳ Time Needed: 30–45 minutes
👑 6. Taiyuin Mausoleum (Taiyuinbyo)
A beautifully ornate mausoleum dedicated to Tokugawa Iemitsu, the grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Though less crowded than Toshogu, it is equally stunning — blending Buddhist and Shinto architectural elements. It’s quieter, more solemn, and surrounded by ancient cedar trees.
✨ Insider Tip: Look for the richly decorated Nitenmon Gate and the dragon carvings — fewer crowds allow for relaxed exploration.
📍 Location: Behind Rinnoji Temple, 10 min walk from Toshogu
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥550 (combo ticket with Rinnoji also available)
⏳ Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
🛕 7. Rinnoji Temple
Nikko’s most significant Buddhist temple, Rinnoji is home to three large gilded wooden statues representing the mountain deities of Nikko. The complex includes the main Sanbutsudo Hall and a peaceful strolling garden with a teahouse. It’s currently undergoing long-term renovations but remains open to visitors.
✨ Insider Tip: Visit the Shoyoen Garden next door — it’s a small but beautiful Japanese garden, especially during autumn.
📍 Location: Near Toshogu and Futarasan Shrine
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥400 (¥900 combo with garden)
⏳ Time Needed: 45–60 minutes
🐉 8. Ryuzu Falls (Ryuzu no Taki)
This small but charming waterfall gets its name — “Dragon Head Falls” — from its shape. It’s located along the Yukawa River that flows into Lake Chuzenji. The surrounding forest makes it a favorite during the autumn foliage season. There’s a teahouse right by the viewpoint offering snacks and views.
✨ Insider Tip: Best visited on the same trip as Lake Chuzenji; arrive early in the morning for peaceful views and great light.
📍 Location: North of Lake Chuzenji, 20 min bus ride from Kegon Falls
🎟 Entrance Fee: Free
⏳ Time Needed: 30 minutes
🚡 9. Akechidaira Ropeway
A short ropeway ride takes you to one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Nikko. From the observation deck, you can see Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and Mount Nantai all at once. It’s especially popular in autumn, when the entire valley glows with colorful foliage.
✨ Insider Tip: Go early or late in the day for fewer people and clear views — the platform is small and can get crowded.
📍 Location: Along the Irohazaka winding road, 30 min bus ride from Nikko
🎟 Entrance Fee: ¥750 round-trip
⏳ Time Needed: 30–45 minutes
🧘♂️ 10. Kanmangafuchi Abyss
A quiet riverside walking trail lined with dozens of Jizo statues — Buddhist guardians of travelers and children. Each statue seems to have a slightly different face, and local legend says they change position when you’re not looking. The path follows the fast-flowing Daiya River and offers a tranquil retreat.
✨ Insider Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the light filters through the trees — it’s peaceful and atmospheric.
📍 Location: 20–25 min walk from central Nikko
🎟 Entrance Fee: Free
⏳ Time Needed: 30–45 minutes
Where to Stay in Nikko
Nikko offers a variety of accommodations to suit all preferences and budgets:
🌟 Luxury
Fufu Nikko (ふふ 日光)
A serene luxury escape where every suite includes a private onsen bath. Surrounded by forests and traditional elegance, this boutique resort blends modern design with local charm.
👉 Book here
The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko
A world-class retreat near Lake Chuzenji offering breathtaking lake and mountain views. Features natural hot spring baths, refined dining, and a calm, luxurious atmosphere.
👉 Book here
♨️ Onsen Accommodation
Okunoin Hotel Tokugawa
A tranquil onsen ryokan offering both public and private hot spring baths. Nestled in nature, this serene retreat provides traditional meals and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxation.
👉
🏨 Mid-Level Accommodation
Nikko Kanaya Hotel (日光金谷ホテル)
Japan’s oldest resort hotel, blending historic charm with modern comfort. Located near Nikko’s famous shrines, it offers spacious rooms and an elegant dining experience, ideal for travelers looking for a balance of comfort and tradition.
👉
Budget-Friendly
Stay Nikko Guesthouse
A cozy and affordable guesthouse that feels like home. Great for budget travelers looking for clean rooms, helpful hosts, and a quiet spot near central Nikko.
One-Day Nikko Itinerary
If you’re short on time, here’s a suggested one-day itinerary to make the most of your Nikko visit:
Morning:
- Arrive in Nikko
- Visit Shinkyo Bridge and Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Lunch: Try yuba (tofu skin), a local specialty.
Afternoon:
- Explore Futarasan Shrine
- Head to Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji
- Return to Tokyo
Plan Your Nikko Trip Today!
From its historic shrines to its stunning natural beauty, Nikko is a destination that truly offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re visiting for the culture, the scenic beauty, or both, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience.
Start planning your Nikko adventure today and immerse yourself in one of Japan’s most iconic destinations!