day trip tokyo nikko

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Nikko Day Trip Itinerary

Make the most of a day out in the lush mountain town of Nikko, located just under 2 hours away from Tokyo, with our Nikko Day Trip Itinerary.

The small town of Nikko is one of the most stunning places you can visit near Tokyo for the autumn colours. An easy 2-hour train journey from Tokyo, Nikko is most famous for Toshogu Shrine, the nation’s most ornately-decorated shrine and mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nikko is also the gateway to Nikko National Park. It’s home to many great hiking trails and natural wonders, andit is especially worth visiting during autumn when the fall foliage in this area is at its best. While it’s impossible to cover Nikko National Park in a single day, this day trip is a good place to begin.

Notes Before You Go

• A direct, one-way journey from Tobu Asakusa Station costs JPY2700 one way. You will need to purchase tickets from the machines, or better yet, from the ticket counter. The journey is just under two hours each way.
• We suggest leaving on a reasonably early train from Asakusa and aiming to arrive by around 9:15am. This will give you a full day there, with ample time to explore at leisurely pace.
• You will want to have breakfast beforehand, and perhaps even bring snacks you like. While there are lunch options, Nikko is not exactly brimming with great eateries, and the tourist-oriented snacks sold here do leave something to be desired.
• Besides the specific express train mentioned, itinerary timings are approximate. Adjust them to suit your schedule. It’s an excellent idea to check train times at the Tobu website and at the train station again to make sure you’ll have enough time to travel between Tokyo and Nikko.
• This itinerary is a guideline. If you wish to make this day trip more leisurely, stick to exploring the shrines and temples, and forgo the bus journeys out towards Lake Chuzenji. But Nikko does in fact have a great deal more to offer, especially if you like hiking. If that’s the case, stay overnight, and head further into the mountains on a second day to explore Oku-Nikko.
• If you are staying overnight, you may want to stay in an onsen town such as Kinugawa Onsen to enjoy the hot springs and surrounding area. See our accommodation recommendations at the end of this itinerary for more information.
• This is a walking itinerary. Although there are several bus rides between destinations in the afternoon, there’s still plenty of walking involved, especially in the shrine complex. Put on your most comfortable shoes and give it a shot.

Nikko Itinerary

Here is our full one-day itinerary. Scroll to the bottom of this page to find a Google map which has the whole route and all the places mentioned marked on it.

7:00am Tobu Asakusa Station

Start at Tobu Asakusa Station. If you are arriving from the Metro, you will need to follow the signs that say Tobu – this will be towards Exits 6, 7, and 8.

Buy a 有料特急 express ticket headed to Tobu-Nikko Station. The earliest train at a reasonable hour you can take departs at 7:30am. It’s an early one but it will have you arriving at Nikko in good time to make the most of a day there. Those who prefer a more leisurely day overall can take the 9:00am train, but it may only give you enough time to explore the Toshogu Shrine complex area.

Head up the stairs/escalator and onto platform 4. Find your seat and embark on your journey to Nikko.

9:20am Purchasing Bus Passes and Tickets

Once you’re out of the ticket barriers, veer left and head into the Tourist Information Centre. If you’re planning on visiting Toshogu Shrine – which is the whole point of coming to Nikko – we recommend purchasing entrance tickets at the station rather than at the shrine, so you don’t have to stand in line later in the morning. This is especially useful during busier seasons. A little planning goes a long way.

If you are following the itinerary as is, or even planning to stay overnight, we suggest picking up the Chuzenji Onsen Free Pass for JPY2000, which allows you to ride the tourist buses as often as you like between JR Nikko Station (Stop 1) and Osaki (Stop 31). You can pay for each ride if you want, but given that a one-way trip to see Kegon Falls will set you back JPY1,150, this is already a good deal. You’ll also receive a map of the area.

9:30am Shinkyo Bridge Exit Tobu-Nikko Station and cross the road to the bus stands. Wait for the next bus at 2B. Bus Stop 7, Shinkyo - image © Florentyna Leow Take the bus to Stop 7, Shinkyo. Shinkyo Bridge. - image © Florentyna Leow The famous bridge is right ahead in the direction of the river. Shinkyo Bridge stands at the entrance to the shrine complex and technically belongs to Futarasan Shrine, which you’ll visit later in this itinerary. You’ll see people taking a photo of it from a distance. Join them. If you want to actually cross it, you’ll have to shell out an additional JPY300, since it has been cordoned off from the general public. Entering the shrine complex. - image © Florentyna Leow 10:00am Temple Complex

It’s time to begin your explorations of Nikko’s famous temples and shrines. Spend as much or as little time as you like in each place; but you probably won’t need more than two hours before you head out for lunch. Cross the road and head up the stone stairs leading through a forest.

Follow the path upwards.

You’ll eventually arrive at a large clearing with a temple hall to your right, another temple gate ahead, and a building to your left.

Rinno-ji Treasure House

We suggest beginning with the building on your left – the Rinno-ji Treasure House. Entrance is JPY300 but entirely worth it. While the artworks inside are indeed quite stunning, especially if you enjoy classical Japanese art, it’s the Japanese-style garden, Shoyoen, that’s the star of the show.

This strolling garden is a fine example of its kind, though it seems to be overlooked by most visitors in favour of the more resplendent temples and shrines in the vicinity.

As with the rest of Nikko, Shoyoen is a popular spot for the autumn leaves, with its maples bordering the central pond. But don’t discount visiting it at other times of the year when there are other glorious flowers blooming, such as azaleas and irises. In May, the new spring greenery is particularly lush, and there are bunches of white wisteria hanging near the teahouse.

Rinno-ji Temple

After the garden exit and head to the ticket office opposite (next to the stairs) and pick up a JPY400 ticket for the main hall of Rinno-ji Temple. If you want to visit the mausoleum as well, it will cost JPY900.

Founded in the 8th century, Rinno-ji Temple is reputedly Nikko’s most important temple. No photography is allowed inside the main building, the Sanbutsudo. This is a small blessing in disguise. Take your time looking at the fantastic, imposing gold-lacquered statues of Amida Nyorai, the Thousand-Armed Kannon, and the Horse-Head Kannon. There are other smaller ones inside to look at as you walk through.

Toshogu Shrine

After you exit the main hall, you’ll walk past a mausoleum on your right. Turn right when you reach the sloping incline. Toshogu Shrine is just up ahead. If you didn’t purchase tickets at the station, you’ll have to do this now – the ticket office is just past the 5-storey pagoda to the left of the stairs leading up to the shrine.

Toshogu Shrine enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu, who founded the Tokugawa Shogunate that ushered in over 250 years of relative peace until 1868. With over a dozen buildings located in a lush forest, it is one of Japan’s most lavishly decorated shrine complexes, and unsurprisingly is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There’s much to see and observe here. Take some time to look closely at the fantastic plasterwork and wooden carvings, such as “Imagined Elephants” and “Sleeping Cat.” The moss-covered stone lanterns are also rather beautiful.

If you have the energy, you may head to the Inner Shrine, located past the Sleeping Cat.

This involves climbing over 200 steps up. Don’t worry, it’s not as arduous as it seems!

Here you’ll walk around Tokugawa Ieyasu’s grave.

Futarasan Shrine

After exploring Toshogu Shrine complex, exit the way you came. There’s a path lined with stone lanterns to the right of the pagoda leading to Nikko Futarasan Shrine. This shrine is dedicated to the deities of Mt. Nantai, Mt. Nyoho, and Mt. Taro, which are Nikko’s three most sacred mountains. Futarasan is another name for Mt. Nantai.

Don’t forget to look at the moss-covered wall on the way!

The shrine itself is much older than Toshogu Shrine, but is far less lavishly decorated. Still, it’s a pleasant stopover, and usually makes a nice breather from the visitor numbers at the previous shrine.

12:15pm Lunch at Nikko Coffee, Goyoteidori

After spending the morning walking around a large temple complex, it’s time to find some grub. Excellent eating options in Nikko aren’t exactly abundant, but there are still a number of places to choose from. Exit Futarasan Shrine. Take the nearest path leading downhill, which will take you to an area with some souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes. Some of them are located in what seems to be a more nondescript residential area across the road.

A number of restaurants serve either yuba-themed meals – soymilk skin is a local specialty – or soba. But, there are other choices too. We’ve marked some restaurants on the Google Map, which can be found at the end of the itinerary.

If you like eating in stylish surroundings, however, the place hit up is Nikko Coffee. Located in a renovated machiya (traditional Japanese-style wooden house), they serve delicious curry and omurice set lunches in rather stylish surroundings. Nikko Coffee is also known for their seasonal kakigori (shaved ice), using fine ice made from mountain spring water and rippled through with gorgeous fruit syrups.

To get here from Futarasan Shrine, follow the road down to the main road. Cross the road at the traffic lights and turn right. Walk along the main road until you see Lawson’s up ahead on your left. Take the nearest left turn before Lawson’s and walk downhill. Take the next right. Nikko Coffee will be just on your right.

The pourover coffee is excellent, and the 3-day simmered pork black curry over rice makes a satisfying and hearty meal. If you opt for a cake, make it the ultra-dense chocolate gateau. The not-so-secret ingredient is miso, which adds an extra delicious layer of umami to the entire affair. We recommend lingering a while at Nikko Coffee.

1:15pm Bus to Kegon Falls

After lunch, it’s time to head further into the Nikko area for a dose of nature. Nikko National Park has many gorgeous hiking trails, but this typically requires a little more time than is possible on a day trip. Instead, we suggest heading in the direction of Lake Chuzenji to see Kegon Falls.

Clocking in at almost 100 metres tall, Kegon Falls is ranked as one of Japan’s three most beautiful falls, alongside Nachi Waterfall in Wakayama Prefecture and Fukuroda Waterfall in Ibaraki Prefecture. It is named for a nearby temple belonging to Kegon Buddhism, which was transmitted from China. “Kegon” derives from the Sanskrit word “avatamsa” or “flower adornment,” and the word is used as a metaphor for becoming a Buddha.

Kegon Falls is rather magnificent throughout the year, but it is especially popular during autumn when it is surrounded by glorious reds and orange foliage. It’s even worth visiting in winter when the waterfall is almost completely frozen solid, and surrounded by snow-covered branches.

From Nikko Coffee, turn left. Take the next left and walk out to the main road. Turn left and straight ahead. Bus Stop No. 9 is right outside Lawson’s. Ride the bus all the way to Stop 26.

Alight at Stop 26 and walk away from the lake (which will be behind you) and past the Nikko Natural Museum on your right.

You’ll see a sign for Kegon Falls up ahead. Follow it and you’ll arrive at an area with souvenir shops and cafes.

The free observation platform is to the right, as pictured above; while there is a paid platform at the base of the falls accessible via a 100 metre-deep elevator. The views from the base are indeed quite impressive, but you will have to decide whether it is worth the additional JPY550 you’ll pay just to access it.

A note about the bus ride: it is approximately 30 minutes to Kegon Falls via the Irohazaka or Iroha Pass. This consists of 48 hairpin bends winding up and down through a mountain in order to reach Lake Chuzenji. It’s a beautiful ride through the mountains, but it can be very slightly bumpy – we strongly recommend a trip to the bathroom before your bus ride!

2:15pm Bus to Ryuzu Falls

After visiting Kegon Falls, it’s time to hop on a bus to Ryuzu Falls. Ryuzu Falls, or “Dragon Head Waterfall,” is so named for its resemblance to – you guessed it – the head of a dragon. The bus ride takes you halfway around the perimeter of Lake Chuzenji and makes for a scenic, leisurely journey.

As with many locations in Nikko, Ryuzu Falls is particularly popular during the autumn for the fall colours, and one of the best times to visit is during early October. Nevertheless, it’s a charming spot at all times of the year, and there’s even a little cafe from which you can watch the waters.

To get here from Kegon Falls, walk back to the Chuzenji Bus Terminal to Stop 26A. Board the bus headed for Yumoto Onsen. Ride it to Stop 37.

Alight, cross the road, and walk a little ways back, veering to the path on the left towards Ryuzu Falls.

If you have purchased the bus pass suggested earlier, note that the bus ride here is not covered by the pass as it’s slightly out of the geographical range - it costs an additional JPY320 in cash each way.

3:00pm Bus back to Tobu-Nikko Station

At this point, it’s about time to begin heading back to Tokyo - especially if you want to reach in good time for dinner. Walk back to Bus Stop 37, this time heading in the direction you came from. Board the next bus and ride it all the way to Tobu-Nikko Station; and take a numbered ticket from the small machine next to the door when you board the bus.

If you purchased the bus pass suggested above, you will need to show them both the pass and the numbered ticket. This means you will pay JPY320 for the return journey from Ryuzu Falls to the area covered by your bus pass.

4:05pm Train back to Asakusa Station

Once you reach Tobu-Nikko Station, purchase a ticket heading back to Tokyo. You can return to Asakusa Station for JPY2700, or depending on train times, you may wish to head to Shinjuku. The express train back to Shinjuku Station costs JPY4000 and will take you approximately 2 hours.

View the full size version of our Nikko map which has each of the places discussed above marked on it

Recommended Accommodation for Nikko

Although Nikko is an easy day trip from Tokyo, you might want to slow down and spend a night there. This will give you a break from the city and allow you to explore the area in more depth. Here are some recommended accommodations.

• Nikko Station Hotel II (View on Booking.com or Agoda.com .) Located a 3-minute walk from Tobu-Nikko Station, this is a comfortable and convenient Western-style hotel. The staff are friendly, helpful, and speak decent English. All the amenities you need from a hotel are included here, such as hairdryers, electric kettles, free WiFi, and air-conditioning. As a bonus, all rooms are non-smoking. Should you arrive earlier and need to store your luggage, lockers are available for free - just ask the front desk. The breakfast buffet has a reasonable selection of Western and Japanese options, and is very decent for the price. There’s also a supermarket nearby if you need to pick up snacks.
• Nikko Station Hotel Classic (View on Booking.com or Agoda.com .) This Western-style hotel is conveniently located just steps away from JR Nikko Station, and is a good option for anyone looking for a hotel with that extra touch. It might not be five stars, but with clean, comfortable rooms, indoor and outdoor hot spring baths, free WiFi, and a fabulous breakfast buffet that includes superb French toast, who’s complaining? A good place to stay, especially if you don’t want to trek all the way out to a mountain ryokan but still want to soak in an onsen.
• Hotel Shirakawa Yunokura (View on Booking.com or Agoda.com .) Should you want to relax in an onsen town for a night or two while exploring Nikko, Kinugawa Onsen is the district to head to. There are a number of options in the town; one we like is Hotel Shirakawa Yunokura. A well-managed, gorgeously decorated ryokan, many of the rooms have riverside views, and it’s fabulous soaking in the outdoor onsen hot spring baths while enjoying the scenery. We strongly recommend booking with dinner and breakfast included, as pickings in town for both are slim. Luckily, their cooking is superb.
• Kinugawa Onsen Hotel (View on Booking.com or Agoda.com .) Located right by Kinugawa Gorge, this lovely hotel is popular with Japanese travelers looking for a weekend getaway. Unusually, you have a choice of Japanese-style or Western-style rooms. Make sure you include breakfast and dinner - the food is excellent and worth the price. The indoor and outdoor hot spring baths are rather luxurious, and you can also shell out a little extra for a private bath. This hotel is a 40-minute drive from Toshogu Shrine, but the town itself is accessible by train on the Tobu Nikko line. For an additional charge, the hotel offers a shuttle service from Tobu-Kinugawa Onsen Station, which is a 7-minute drive away. It’s great if you need an escape into nature, and also if you want a spot of rafting and canyoning in the surrounding areas along with your hot spring baths.

Tokyo Vacation Checklist

• For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Tokyo guide
• Check Tokyo accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
• Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Tokyo
• You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Tokyo to Osaka and Tokyo to Hiroshima
• You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
• See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
• Compare airline flight prices and timings for the best Japan flight deals . Check my guides to arriving at Narita Airport and at Haneda Airport .
• If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
• A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Tokyo much easier - here's how
• World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
• Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help

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Is Nikko Tokyo’s Best Day Trip?

June 29, 2024 by Robert Schrader Leave a Comment

One of the things I love most about Japan is how simultaneously big and small it is. Geographically, it doesn’t cover a huge area, but all you need to do is hop on the Tokyo Metro or  Shinkansen  or even a local train, in some cases, such as when you take a Nikko day trip from Tokyo.

Even if you only travel a few stations, you get off and you’re on an entirely different planet. Or, as is the case when you travel from Tokyo to Nikko, in an entirely different time.

A UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back over a millennium, Nikko is famous in more recent Japanese history as the home of 17th-century Shogun Tokugawa, whose dying wish was to be enshrined as a God there. This wish, as you will see immediately upon crossing the Shin-kyo bridge into old Nikko, was carried out.

Where to Stay if You Extend Your Nikko Day Trip

I recommend taking a Nikko Japan day trip, but it’s a lovely place to spend a night (or longer!) if you have time in your Japan itinerary. Whether you stay at the boutique Nikko Senhime Monogatari or the budget Hotori-an , you’re sure to feel right at home in Nikko.

Yet another option would be to spend the day in Nikko, then head further north into the mountains of Gunma prefecture and spend the night at Takaragawa Onsen , which some (yours truly included) argue is the best onsen in Japan. You could also go super high-end in Nikko, and book a room at the Ritz , which is on the shores of Lake Chuzenji.

How to Spend Your Day (or Longer) in Nikko

Cross a sacred bridge.

Upon arriving in Nikko from Tokyo, I usually make a beeline for Shin-kyo , whose name literally means “Sacred Bridge.” Having existed in its current incarnation since around 1636, the bridge is the official entrance into the historical part of Nikko for me, even though you have to navigate through the more modern town center (whether via bus, or if it’s nice, on foot) to get there.

Get lost amid an ancient shrine

From here, I usually continue my Nikko day trip by heading up the hill to Tosho-gu , a Shinto shrine founded in the early 17th century. Located on a hilltop and massive in its expanse, this is where the majority of day trippers from Tokyo spend the entirety of their time in Nikko—and with good reason. Within the shrine complex, the most picturesque places include the Gojunoto five-story pagoda, the Sleeping Cat Shrine and the dramatic, cedar-lined paths that connect these two distant points of the shrine.

BONUS: It’s at this point in my Nikko day trip that I usually like to sit down for yuba (tofu skin), the city’s most famous culinary delight, though whether or not you do so is totally up to you!

Be a guest at an imperial residence

After you visit Tosho-gu, head back down to Shinkyo bridge (and walk across it, if you haven’t already) and explore more deeply. One option, which is walking distance from the shrine exit, is to visit Tamozawa Imperial Villa . Built in 1899 for the Emperor Taisho, its most notorious recent use was as a hideout for Emperor Hirohito during World War II. You may also choose to hike along Kanmangafuchi Abyss , or sit down to eat locally-made yuba , aka tofu skin.

Hike along a turbid abyss

No matter where in Japan I see them, red-capped jizo statues always haunt and intrigue me. Among my favorite places to feel this energy is also Kanmangafuchi , a so-called “abyss” that’s actually just an especially fast section of the main Daiya River that flows through Nikko. This is especially beautiful in fall, when fiery maples seem to echo the yarn of the statues’ hats, but is gorgeous any time of year.

Admire a waterfall tumbling out of a lake

While truly digging into Nikko National Park from Tokyo is a tall order, you can get a feel for just how wild the nature on the town’s doorstep is. My favorite way to do this is by getting a bus up to Akechidaira , which in my opinion is Nikko’s best viewpoint. Here, you can see Kegon Falls thundering outside of Lake Chuzenji , which itself (in particular, its superlative Chuzenji Onsen ) is a destination in and of itself.

How to Get to Nikko from Tokyo

While there isn’t (technically) a Tokyo to Nikko Shinkansen , you can ride the bullet train to get here. Specifically, you can ride a Shinkansen Yamabiko or Nasuno from Tokyo or Ueno to Utsunomiya, where you’ll take the JR Nikko Line the rest of the way to Nikko. This is the preferred way to get to Nikko using a JR Pass, although you should note that this pass is no longer a very good value after October 2023, when its price went up significantly.

Indeed, the most sensible Tokyo to Nikko train route is by riding the direct Tobu Nikko Line from Asakusa Station. Whether you ride a limited express train like the Revaty Kegon (or the newer, more luxurious Spacia X ), or simply take a local Tobu train, this allows you to travel from central Tokyo (well, northeastern Tokyo) to Nikko without any transfers.

Other FAQ About Visiting Nikko from Tokyo

Is nikko worth a day trip.

Nikko is absolutely worth a day trip! Whether you simply make the jaunt from Nikko Station to Tosho-gu, or travel deeper into the wilds of Tochigi prefecture and visit Kegon Falls, Nikko feels a world away from Tokyo (in spite of being just 90 minutes from the capital).

How many days do you need in Nikko?

Most travelers visit Nikko on a day trip from Tokyo, but in reality you could spend a couple of days here. This is because that in addition to famous Tosho-gu Shrine (where you could easily spend an entire day), Nikko is home to wild nature such as Kegon Falls. Moreover, Nikko is the gateway to northeastern Japan, whether you visit onsen in the mountains of Gunma prefecture, head west into the Japanese Alps, or northward into the Tohoku region.

Is Nikko a day trip from Tokyo?

Nikko is an easy and popular day trip from Tokyo. To reach Nikko with a JR Pass, ride the Shinkansen from Tokyo or Ueno to Utsunomiya, then transfer to the local JR Nikko Line. If you’re paying cash, ride the Tobu Nikko Line (ideally, a Spacia or Revaty Kegon Limited Express) from Tobu-Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko.

The Bottom Line

Considering a day trip from Tokyo to Nikko? Nikko is one of the easiest and most fulfilling day trips from Tokyo—Nikko is absolutely worth visiting! Whether you simply explore the Nikko Tosho-gu Shrine or venture into outlying areas like Nikko National Park to marvel at Kegon Falls or Lake Chuzenji, a day trip from Tokyo to Nikko is one of the most illuminating ways to break up the days you spend in Tokyo . Nikko is also an excellent place to stay overnight if you have time. Want to ensure your next trip to Japan is one for the record books? Hire me to plan it!

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The Perfect Nikko Day Trip (One Day Itinerary)

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Planning a day trip to Nikko from Tokyo? This one-day itinerary will help you plan it in an efficient way.

Tokyo has a special place in my heart, and you could easily spend a month there without getting bored. But, there are some great places to visit near Tokyo if you want a break from the busy city – Nikko is one of them.

Nikko is located in the Tochigi Prefecture – around 150 km from Tokyo (around 2–3 hours by train). This mountainous area makes for a great trip from Japan’s capital city. There is tons of history and nature, and it turned into one of my favourite places near Tokyo.

While visiting Nikko on a day trip can be tricky (there is so much to see and do!), it is totally possible. When you’re on a tight time schedule during your time in Japan, you have the make the most of it – and this day trip itinerary is here to help.

To find out how to spend your day in Nikko, how to get there and what passes you need, read on! Our guide will get you ready for the perfect day in Nikko.

9. Take the train back to Tokyo

2. jr pass route.

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Day trip to Nikko from Tokyo overview

No time to read the full guide? No problem! Here’s a quick overview and map for this Nikko day trip:

When taking a day trip to Nikko and you plan on using the JR Pass , you can save money by getting the Nikko Pass (World Heritage Area) . This pass includes a return ticket from Tokyo to Nikko, unlimited travel on busses and trains within certain areas and extra discounts.

Plus, the pass is cheaper than buying an individual return ticket to Nikko from Tokyo. For more information, check out our guide to the Nikko Pass .

Nikko day trip itinerary

Here is how to take the best day trip to Nikko from Tokyo:

1. Take the train from Tokyo to Nikko

To make the most of your day trip to Nikko, it’s best to leave as early as possible. The train from Tokyo to Nikko takes around 2–3 hours, and you wouldn’t want to miss out on exploring time. We’ve got a section later in this article that explains how to get to Nikko from Tokyo (with JR Pass or without).

When we visited Nikko, we used the Nikko Pass to save some money. If you have this pass, you can travel by train on the Tobu Nikko Line from Tobu Asakusa Station. After arriving at Tobu Nikko Station, you can use the Nikko Pass for unlimited journeys on the bus and train in certain areas. For this itinerary, it’s best to get on the bus towards Shinkyo bridge at the station.

2. Shinkyo bridge

One of Nikko’s most famous sights is the Shinkyo bridge , which is the first stop on our itinerary. From Nikko train station, it only takes around 5 minutes by bus to get here (20–30 minutes by foot). It’s also the start of the World Heritage Area, making it the perfect first stop on our Nikko itinerary.

Especially with the autumn foliage in the background (we were a little late, lots of trees had lost their leaves already!), it makes for a stunning view. Being one of the nicest bridges in Japan and a World Heritage Site, Shinkyo Bridge dates back to 1636. Yup – this exact bridge is almost 400 years old!

It wasn’t always accessible to the public, however. Renovations in the 1990s and 2000s made it so people can walk across it – for a small entrance fee (a few hundred yen).

Legend says that when the first head priest of Nikko (Buddhist monk Shodo) asked the mountains for a way to cross the river, two snakes appeared and turned into the bridge we find here today.

3. Hongu cafe

Hongu cafe is a small cafe near Shinkyo bridge, and I’m so glad we accidentally stumbled upon it. Desperate for some coffee, we entered this traditional cafe and were blown away by the interior. We were asked to take off our shoes and put on some Japanese slippers before we were guided to our table.

From there, we were able to watch over the beautiful garden while drinking our coffee. It’s one of the nicest traditional cafes we visited during our second trip to Japan, and definitely a spot to check out if you have the time.

4. Rinnō-ji temple

Nikko has its fair share of temples, and when visiting the World Heritage Area, Rinnoji Temple is a must-visit. Founded 1,200 years ago by the Buddhist monk Shodo. It’s still used today as a training ground for Tendai monks.

Inside the temple, you can find eight-meter-tall gold statues, representing the deities of Nikko’s mountains. You can also find a Japanese garden behind the shrine, which you can visit for a small fee. We decided to skip it as we were on a bit of a time schedule since we only had one day in Nikko.

5. Nikkō Tōshōgū

Nikko Toshogu is probably the most famous landmark in the area and one that we spent the most time at during our day trip to Nikko. The temple is dedicated to Ieyasu Tokugawa, the former Shogan who started the Edo Period. His remains are enshrined here – and you can even visit his tomb here.

Before the main entrance, you can find a five-storied pagoda – an impressive sight before even entering the main temple grounds. To go further, you will have to pay for a ticket, but it’s 100% worth it in my opinion.

As you enter the main temple grounds, you’ll first find 101 stone lanterns covered in moss.  Some of them were donated by a lord who fought with Ieyasu Tokugawa, which ultimately started the Tokugawa Shogunate (the military government of Japan during the Edo period).

Walking a bit further, you’ll reach the main buildings. One of the most lavishly decorated shrines in the whole of Japan and it truly took our breath away. The details that are carved into the wood (508 different carvings to be precise!) are out of this world – the longer you look, the more things you see. Simply for this shrine, I believe it’s worth taking the trip to Nikko.

Since it’s located in such a serene location in the mountains, it gives you a whole new view of Japanese culture – especially in contrast to big cities like Tokyo and Osaka.

There are quite a few smaller buildings and temples to explore once you enter through the main gates. They’re all beautifully decorated and colourful – it’s very easy to spend a couple of hours here, wandering through the different buildings and reading the information signs. There is so much history here!

A little bit further, you can find another highlight of this beautiful temple: The Sleeping Cat Carving (Nemurineko). It’s a small carving, but one of the most famous ones in Nikko. It protects the entrance to the grave of Ieyasu Tokugawa. On the other side, you can find a carving of two sparrows – it represents the co-existence of the strong and the weak.

After walking through the gate, you will find 207 stone steps leading you up to the inner shrine. Ieyasu Tokugawa is buried beneath the pagoda at the top – you can go here to pay your respects. The grave hasn’t been opened since Tokugawa was laid to rest in 1617.

You can also find a wish-granting tree near the grave. It already stood here before the temple was built, and legend says your wish will be granted if you pray while facing the hollow tree.

6. Futarasan shrine

From the entrance Tohogu shrine, we continue walking to the next shrine. I know it’s a lot of shrines to visit in Nikko in one day, but they’re of such cultural importance – and in such a beautiful forest in the mountains, it does make for some spectacular views.

The short road from Toshogu to Futarasan is paved with large cedar trees – it feels kinda magical wandering between them. The mountainous atmosphere of Nikko definitely made me enjoy being there so much, it got me even more excited to explore more of Japan’s rural areas in the future.

Futarasan is dedicated to the god of Mount Nantai, one of Nikko’s mountains. It’s actually older than Toshogu Shrine, and while it’s nowhere near as elaborately decorated, it’s one of Nikko’s main places of worship. The temple was founded by the Buddhist monk Shodo (yes, the same person who founded Rinnoji Temple and Shinkyo Bridge). 

You can enter most of the shrine’s area for free. The only place that requires payment is a garden with some beautiful sacred trees – this isn’t absolutely necessary to visit though.

7. Nikko Coffee

Excuse me while I recommend yet another place to grab a coffee… But this local coffee shop is on the route towards the next point on the itinerary and it sells great coffee! Plus, there are some other food vendors nearby so you can grab some lunch or a quick snack.

From Futarasan shrine, walk down the long road towards Nikko Coffee. There are some local restaurants here too – we sadly got here too late for lunch but they looked like great places to sit down.

Near Nikko Coffe, you can also find some souvenir shops in case you’d like to bring some Nikko goods home with you.

8. Kanmangafuchi abyss

Spending only one day in Nikko can be tricky as there is so much to see and do. However, you can definitely make the most of the World Heritage Area – but that does bring us to the last item on this itinerary: the Kanmangafuchi abyss.

This narrow valley was formed after Mount Nantai erupted many years ago – it now makes for a nice walking trial near the river and one of Nikko’s most popular spots to visit.

You may recognise the image of the stone statues of Jizo Bosatsu (the guardian of travellers and children) wearing red crocheted hats and bibs. 

There should be 74 statues, but legend says, the number changes every time you count them. 

And that concludes our day trip to Nikko! Make your way back to Tobu Nikko Station and get the train to Tokyo. One day definitely isn’t a lot of time to spend in Nikko – especially since there is so much more to see. Nikko has a lot of beautiful hikes, hot springs and natural sights like Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji.

The sweet spot is 2–3 days, but if you only have one day, this day trip itinerary gives you a great first impression of this lovely spot in Japan. Who knows, you may be able to come back for longer during your next trip to Japan!

How to get to Nikko from Tokyo

Nikko is located around 150 km north of Tokyo – it takes between 2–3 hours to get here from Japan’s capital. There are a few different ways to reach Nikko, and the best option for you depends if you have a JR Pass or not:

1. Tobu train route

If you don’t have a Japan Rail Pass, the cheapest and easiest way to get to Nikko is by using the Nikko Pass and the Tobu train route. It will take you from Tobu Asakusa Station to Nikko on the Tobu Nikko Line in around 2 hours (on the limited express train).

The Nikko Pass includes a return ticket from Tokyo to Nikko and additional free bus and train travel in the Nikko area. And since the World Heritage Area Pass is cheaper than buying a return ticket from Tokyo to Nikko, it’s a no-brainer.

The pass costs ¥2,120 and you have the option to pay a fee to use the limited express train (up to up ¥2,940, which I would recommend if you’re only going for one day as it’ll save you a lot of time). It’s still cheaper to get the pass AND limited express compared to buying the return ticket outright.

If you’re using the JR Pass during your time in Japan, you can use it to travel from Tokyo to Nikko and back. From Tokyo Station or Ueno Station, you can take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya. From there, you can get on the JR Nikko Line to Nikko Station.

Tobu and JR also share the JR Tobu line (which departs from Tobu Asakusa Station). However, it’s a shared line, making the JR Pass invalid on the Tobu Line part of the journey. While you can still choose to travel this route, you’ll have to pay an additional fee.

Since one of the main advantages of getting the Nikko Pass is the return journey from Tokyo, it’s  not worth  getting the Nikko Pass if you have the JR Pass.

You can also take the bus to Nikko from Tokyo, but since it takes over 3 hours, it’s not a good option if you’re taking a day trip. Alternatively, you can book a fully planned day trip to Nikko, including pick-up .

Is the Nikko Pass worth it for one day?

The Nikko Pass is a discount pass which includes a return ticket from Asakusa in Tokyo to Nikko, unlimited bus and train journeys in certain areas in Nikko and some additional discounts. There are two passes available: the World Heritage Area pass (valid for 2 days) and the All Area pass (valid for 4 days).

Since there is no one day Nikko Pass available, you may wonder whether it’s worth getting one. If you don’t have a JR Pass, I recommend getting the 2-day Nikko Pass World Heritage Area for this day trip.

As the Nikko Pass World Heritage Area (including the upgrade fee for the limited express train) is cheaper than buying an individual return ticket to Nikko from Tokyo, you’ll be sure to save some money. And it also covers the area in which the sights of this itinerary are located – making it easy to travel around by bus for free.

Check out my comprehensive guide to the Nikko Passes for more information.

However, you can use the JR Pass to travel to Nikko from Tokyo. So, if you hold the JR Pass and want to use it for this day trip to Nikko, you don’t need to get the Nikko Pass. Since the main advantage of the Nikko Pass is the return ticket from Tokyo, it’s not necessary if you use the JR Pass. For travel in the Nikko area, you can buy individual tickets.

Is Nikko worth a day trip?

Yes, Nikko is a fantastic place to visit and 100% worth a day trip. Especially with the Nikko Pass , it’s easy to travel here from Tokyo and explore the World Heritage Area in one day. It’s best to pay for the additional limited express fee, as this will take you to Nikko in two hours (rather than three with the local train that’s included in the pass).

Because there’s so much to see in Nikko, it’s even better to spend two or three days here. However, we understand that that’s not always possible, especially if you only have a couple of weeks in Japan . Still, one day in Nikko is more than worth the trip!

Nikko day trip itinerary – conclusion

And that’s our Nikko itinerary for a lovely day trip from Tokyo. If you’re looking to visit a quieter place away from the big and busy capital of Japan, Nikko would be a great choice. It actually turned into one of my favourite places near Tokyo – especially since it’s located in the mountains and much close to nature.

If you’re looking for another day trip destination from Tokyo, check out my one day Hakone itinerary for great views of Mount Fuji and some of the best Japanese hot springs.

Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Tokyo to Nikko by train: Access and itinerary

Tokyo to Nikko by train: Access and itinerary

April 30, 2021

Nikko is a historic and scenic retreat in the heart of Japan , nestled in the mountains north of Tokyo. Located at the entrance to Nikko National Park, the town offers beautiful mountain vistas, waterfalls, and hot springs.

Boasting a range of hiking opportunities , the Nikko area has also been sacred to the religions of Buddhism and Shinto for many centuries. The town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 and is perhaps most famous for Toshogu, one of the most intricately decorated shrines in Japan.

The town of Nikko is perhaps most famous for Toshogu, one of the most intricately decorated shrines in Japan. Built in 1617, Toshogu also serves as the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Edo period, also known as the Tokugawa shogunate. This shogunate was the last feudal military government in Japan, and it lasted from 1603 to 1868. In this form of government, the leaders were all from the Tokugawa clan and were called shoguns.

Nikko lies in the Tochigi prefecture, 150 km north of Tokyo, and along the Romantic Road , a favorite vacation route among the Japanese people that has been largely overlooked by foreign tourists. Now you can experience one of the Romantic Road’s prime destinations with the convenience of your Japan Rail Pass .

How to get from Tokyo to Nikko with the Japan Rail Pass

Nikko is one of many interesting day trips from Tokyo made possible using your Japan Rail Pass since traveling time is less than 2 hours from Tokyo by train.

With the Tohoku Shinkansen

To get from Tokyo to Nikko, simply take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen (“Yamabiko” or “Nasuno Trains”) from Tokyo Station or Ueno Station to Utsunomiya ; then, take the JR Nikko Line to Nikko Station. Train prices without the Japan Rail Pass are ¥2,590 (23 USD) one way.

With the JR Tobu line

The JR Tobu line departs from Tokyo’s Tobu Asakusa Station and offers the JR Tobu Nikko Express. This reserved seating train makes the trip in only 1 hour and 45 minutes . However, your JR Rail Pass (with the exception of the JR East Pass) is not valid on the Tobu Line portion of the trip, so you will incur a small fee of ¥1560.

From Narita Airport

If traveling directly from the Narita Airport, you may take a direct highway bus from the airport to Nikko. The one-way trip lasts approximately 3.5 hours and costs ¥4500. If you prefer to use your JR Rail Pass, take the Narita Express from the airport to Tokyo Station and travel with the Tohoku Shinkansen as described above.

Book your Japan Rail Pass now

Things to do in Nikko

If you are wondering what to see in Nikko , there is no shortage of interesting locations to visit. Nikko National Park is home to thousands of tall, majestic cedar trees. Enjoy a peaceful and contemplative afternoon hiking in the shade of their boughs.

Surprisingly, foggy days produce the most interesting hiking experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the forest’s splendor. If you wish to view the koyo , or autumn colors , plan your visit for late autumn. The leaves begin changing in the mountain heights in early October, and peak around the town of Nikko in early November.

The 100-meter tall Kegon no taki , or Kegon Waterfall , is a must-see. The fall is the only outlet for Lake Chuzenji, and it is ranked as one of the three most beautiful waterfalls in Japan.

Toshogu shrine

Toshogu Shrine is comprised of more than one dozen buildings encircled by the cedar forest. Entering the main gate, you will encounter elaborately adorned storehouses, a five-story pagoda, the ornate Yomeimon Gate, and the Crying Dragon painting in Honjido Hall .

When touring the shrine complex, you will be amazed by countless wooden carvings covered in gold leaf decorating the structures. Outside the main shrine area, you may visit the Nikko Toshogu Museum , which holds a collection of swords, armor, and other personal effects belonging to the shrine’s founder. Please note that some of the historic buildings will be under renovation until 2024.

The Nikko Edomura, or Edo Wonderland , is a historical theme park that recreates life in Japan during the Edo period, the time when the Toshogu Shrine was built. Park staff wear authentic period costumes, and visitors may rent costumes as well. You can tour the town’s Edo period architecture, visit wax museums, shop for souvenirs in historical markets, play games at the Ninja Trick Maze and House of Illusion, and view live theatrical shows.

Getting around Nikko

The attractions in Nikko lie within an area of only a few kilometers, making travel by bus an easy option. The World Heritage Meguri Bus circles the town and shrine areas 4 times an hour, and one-way tickets or 2-day passes may be purchased for buses traveling to outlying areas such as Lake Chuzenji.  

The word nikko means “sunlight” in the Japanese language. You are sure to enjoy this town’s sun-like radiance if you step off the beaten path and pay a visit to beautiful and historic Nikko. For more information on travel in and around Japan, visit our travel itineraries blog. After all, your Japan Rail tickets are only a click away.

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The Best Day Trip to Nikko from Tokyo in 2024 (by Train)

Planning the best day trip to Nikko from Tokyo by train? This one-day itinerary will help you plan it perfectly.

Tokyo is undeniably our favorite city in the world.  You could easily spend weeks if not months here without running out of things to do. However, if you’re looking for a break from the bustling city, some incredible day trips from Tokyo are worth exploring. One such place is Nikko.  

And if you’re wondering, can Nikko be done on a day trip?  Yes, it can!  Nikko is worth a day trip from Tokyo and this day trip itinerary will be your go-to guide for all things Nikko.

Nikko is located about 150 km north of Tokyo in the Tochigi Prefecture.  You can take a bus, or train, or rent a car to visit Nikko.  The most common way is by bullet train from Tokyo to Nikko.  You can take a scenic 2-3 hour train ride to this historic mountain town that offers natural beauty with plenty of UNESCO World Heritage attractions.  Not only that but it is set within Nikko National Park .  

With so much to see and do, Nikko stands out as one of the top day trips from Tokyo.  It is easily one of the prettiest places we’ve visited, especially in autumn.  

By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly how to get to Nikko, what passes you need, and the most efficient and fun ways to spend your time around Nikko.

Day trip to Nikko from Tokyo Key Takeaways

• Nikko is an excellent day trip destination from Tokyo, located about 150 km north of the city
• Our detailed day trip itinerary includes attractions like Shinkyo Bridge, Rinnō-ji Temple, Nikkō Tōshōgū, Futarasan Shrine, and Kanmangafuchi Abyss as well as alternative routes to Kengon Falls and Lake Chuzenji.
• We lay out the transportation options to Nikko from Tokyo, such as the Tobu train and JR Pass routes.
• We discuss the value of the Nikko Pass for a one-day trip and whether it’s worth getting.
• Nikko is worth a day trip, and even though more time would be ideal, a day trip offers a fulfilling experience.

* WeWanderlustCo uses affiliate links . If you purchase through these links, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Day trip to Nikko from Tokyo Interactive Map

No time to read the full Nikko Travel Guide? No worries! Here’s an interactive map for this Nikko day trip that you can take on the go :

Click here to get the interactive map

If you’re on a budget and plan to take a day trip to Nikko with a JR (Japan Rail) Pass, consider getting the Nikko Pass (World Heritage Area) to save more money.  This pass includes unlimited local bus and train rides, additional discounts for theme parks, restaurants, souvenirs, and return train tickets from Tokyo to Nikko.

A limited express return ticket from Tokyo to Nikko costs more than the Nikko Pass World Heritage Area, so purchasing the pass will save you money. Since this is a one-day itinerary, we recommend paying the extra fee to take the limited express train to get to Nikko faster.  Even with the upgrade, you’ll still save money overall.

Let’s crunch some numbers.  

The Nikko Pass for adults costs ¥2,120 (~14 USD) . If you add the limited express return ticket fee, which varies from ¥2,940 (~20 USD) depending on time and day, your total will not exceed ¥5,060 (~33 USD) . In comparison, a regular return ticket on the Tobu Nikko line from Asakusa is ¥5,500 (~36 USD) .

Nikko day trip itinerary

This is how to take the best day trip to Nikko from Tokyo in 2024 (by Train)

Take the train from Tokyo to Nikko.

To maximize your time on your day trip to Nikko, leave as early as you can and we mean 6 am. The 2-3 hour train ride from Tokyo to Nikko means less time for exploration if you depart later. 

Later in this article, we have a section that explains how to travel from Tokyo to Nikko, whether you have a JR Pass or not along with alternatives.

We traveled to Nikko by train, taking advantage of our 21-day Japan Rail Pass.  Since we were traveling from Utsunomiya – the gyoza capital, it only took us around 40 minutes to Nikko Station but since you’ll be leaving from Tokyo here’s what you’ll need to do :

Get the Nikko Pass to save more money on all the transportation that you’ll be using throughout the day.  The Nikko Pass allows you unlimited train travel on the Tobu Nikko Line from Tobu Asakusa Station to Tobu Nikko Station. When you get to Tobu Nikko Station, you can use the pass for unlimited bus and train rides within certain areas. We took a 30-minute scenic walk up to Shinkyo Bridge (our first stop) but for this itinerary, it’s best to take the bus towards Shinkyo Bridge directly from the station.  

Nikko’s regular buses run every 15 minutes from the train stations to the major attractions.  There is also a different bus called the World Heritage Sightseeing Bus.  You can get the Tobu Bus World Heritage Sightseeing Pass at the counter which you can use for unlimited access for a 1-day loop to all the UNESCO World Heritage sites, other attractions, gourmet restaurants, and the best part, you can hop on and off as you please.

Tip: Don’t forget to collect your Eki stamp at Nikko Station.   Most train stations in Japan especially JR (Japan Rail) stations have unique stamps at each station where travelers can collect ink stamps as souvenirs.

We love that The JR Nikko Station and Tobu Nikko Station each have tourist information centers.  The JR Nikko Station Center is more spacious and quiet compared to Tobu Nikko’s which is usually crowded.  The visitor center sits right past the ticket gates, accessible from the main concourse.  You can purchase limited express train tickets and local bus passes at the counters as well. 

You’ll also find sightseeing brochures for both the Nikko and Kinugawa areas. The staff there are helpful, and friendly, and can also provide suggestions on how to spend your day there so don’t worry if you don’t feel prepared!   

Tip: If you decide to walk or do some hiking, don’t forget to stop by a Konbini (convenience store) close to both stations to pick up some snacks before heading out.

On your way up to the first stop, you can even buy unique postcards at the Nikko Post Office and send some postcards to family and friends back home.

Where To Stay in Nikko: See all stays

Shinkyo bridge

Nikko’s famed Shinkyo bridge, spanning the Daiya River at the entrance to Nikko National Park, makes a perfect first stop on our Nikko one-day itinerary. The Shinkyo Bridge, also known as the Sacred Bridge is a red-arched bridge that is a 5-minute bus ride or a 30-minute walk from Nikko Station. 

As the gateway to Nikko’s World Heritage sites, the graceful Shinkyo Bridge offers a beautiful preview of the natural and cultural treasures found within the park.  Originally built in the 17th century, this beautiful vermilion-colored bridge was washed away in 1902 but later reconstructed. 

Legend has it that a Buddhist monk called upon deities to help construct the bridge, and two serpents arose from the river and arched their bodies to form the structure. This lore adds to the mystique surrounding the iconic bridge. Shinkyo Bridge looks incredible during fall especially when autumn foliage forms its backdrop.  We went the first week of December and most of the leaves had fallen so we recommend the best time to visit Nikko is mid-October to early November.

Grab a morning coffee at Hongu cafe

Hongu Cafe is a hidden gem.  The cafe is tucked away in the forest across from Shinkyo Bridge.  Take a different turn and you’ll miss it. You’ll know exactly where it is when you catch a whiff of freshly brewed coffee. 

Step inside and you’ll find a charming, cozy oasis where time slows down.  The rustic decor, warm lighting, and outdoor seating create a relaxing atmosphere perfect for lingering over coffee, conversation, or a good book. 

But the true stars are the expertly crafted coffee and a delectable array of flaky croissants, rich cakes, and other confections. Have breakfast here or sip a robust brew paired with a decadent dessert, like the signature coffee and cake set, and savor the symphony of flavors while enjoying the outdoor scenery and fresh air.

Rinnō-ji temple

Nikko has many temples, but it is also home to the renowned Rinnoji Temple, a must-see site in the city’s World Heritage Area. Although Rinnoji Temple was founded 1,200 years ago by the Buddhist monk Shodo, it remains an active place of worship and a training ground for Tendai monks to this day.

The temple houses eight-meter-tall gold statues depicting the deities of Nikko’s mountains. Behind the shrine lies a Japanese garden open to visitors for a small fee, but we skipped it given our tight schedule and limited time.

Nikkō Tōshōgū

Nikko Toshogu is the most popular attraction in Nikko and where you might spend the most time admiring the ornate architecture with intricate carvings and decorations.  This temple honors Ieyasu Tokugawa, a samurai leader and shogun who initiated the Edo period, by enshrining his remains in a tomb that you can visit as well.

Upon entering the main temple grounds, you will see 101 moss-covered stone lanterns, some of which were donated centuries ago by a lord who had fought alongside Ieyasu Tokugawa to establish the Tokugawa Shogunate – the Edo-era military government that ruled Japan for over 250 years. Approaching the main entrance, you will be greeted by a magnificent towering five-storied pagoda called Gojunoto. 

Fun fact : The elevation gain coming up here is as high as the Tokyo Sky Tree at 634m!

To go inside the temple, you have to pay a fee.  If you love history, architecture, and unique buildings with ornate carvings, then it is definitely worth it to go inside. The shrine is famous for its intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and gold leaf details both inside and out. It also has a unique architectural style called gongen-zukuri, where the main building and worship hall are connected by a stone walkway under one roof.

The Toshogu Shrine stands out for its unique character and style when compared to other Japanese shrines, including the well-known temples and shrines of Kyoto.

After visiting the Toshogu Shrine, you have two options: 

• You can visit the nearby Futarasan Shrine or,
• Skip this shrine and head to the Kanmangafuchi abyss.  This is if you also plan to visit Kegon Falls and Chuzenji Lake for this one-day itinerary

Futarasan shrine

The Futarasan Shrine is an older and more tranquil place of worship. Although not as ornately decorated as Toshogu, the Futarasan Shrine is dedicated to the god of Mount Nantai and remains one of Nikko’s main places of worship.

The path from Toshogu to Futarasan is lined with tall cedar trees with rays of light leaking through making it so aesthetic.   There is a term for this in Japanese called Komorebi (木漏れ日) which means sunshine filtering through the trees.   The light feels magical when you walk down the path and will make you appreciate the Japanese countryside even more.

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Kanmangafuchi abyss

The mystical Kanmangafuchi Abyss lies in the heart of Nikko National Park. It was created by an ancient eruption of Mount Nantai. This natural gorge runs for several hundred meters along the Daiya River, overlooked by a mysterious row of 70 red-clad Jizo Buddha statues. 

Local legend says the number of statues changes each time they are counted.  You can take a peaceful stroll along the river which can take around 2 hours but 30-60 minutes is sufficient if you need to visit other areas of the park such as Kegon Falls and Chuzenji Lake. 

After visiting the Kanmangafuchi abyss, you have a couple of options: 

• You can return to the train station and head back to Tokyo or,
• You can take the bus over to Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji (an alternative one-day itinerary)

Tip: You will need to walk 15 minutes to this bus stop 安川町（バス）and take the bus to Chuzenji Onsen, a hot spring resort town home to a temple, shrine, nature museum, and the magnificent Kegon Waterfall.  From here, take a 3-minute walk over to Kegon Falls. Don’t forget to download the free interactive map above.  

Take the train back to Tokyo

If you’re done with the day trip after visiting Kanmangafuchi Abyss, it’s time to head back to Tokyo. From the Tobu Nikko Station, you can catch your train to Tokyo.   Nikko can be explored in one day but after finding out there were so many other things to do in Nikko such as so many beautiful hikes, hot springs, and natural wonders like Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji one day is hardly enough to experience Nikko fully.   

We recommend staying a bit longer next time to explore all of Nikko National Park further.   Ideally, you’d want 2-3 days to experience all the beauty that Nikko has to offer. But even just 1 day can show you some of the highlights. After your visit, you might end up wanting to go back and stay longer on your next trip to Japan.  We’re definitely going back!

If you decide to continue your day to the Lake Chuzenji area, then keep reading the alternate day trip schedule below.

Kegon Waterfall

Kegon Waterfall is a 100-meter waterfall that is considered one of the three most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. Kegon Falls is the main source of drainage for Lake Chuzenji’s waters. Both Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji as part of Nikko National Park were formed 20,000 years ago after an eruption of Mount Nantai blocked the valley below.

Kegon Falls is surrounded by 12 smaller waterfalls and lush greenery and since it faces east you often see the sunlight shining through the mist creating pretty rainbows.  Photos don’t do it justice.  It’s definitely better to see it in person.

You can view Kegon Falls from two vantage points: a free upper deck overlooking the falls from above, or a paid lower observatory with a head-on view only accessible by elevator.

Lake Chuzenji

Lake Chūzenji, known as the Sea of Happiness, sits at an elevation of 1,269 meters in Nikkō National Park making it Japan’s highest natural lake. 

There is so much to do at Lake Chuzenji.  Here are a few of them:   

• Hike 25 kilometers around the lake’s circumference
• Take a sightseeing boat from Chuzenji Onsen
• Go stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Chuzenji
• Rent swan boats, row boats, paddle boats, or even motor boats, and enjoy your time on the lake with your loved ones.
• Visit the Nikko National Science Museum
• Visit Chuzenji Temple and take in the scenic views over the lake
• Visit the Italian Embassy Villa Memorial Park to see how Italian delegates spent their summer getaway- pretty luxuriously if I might add.
• Drink some English tea at a cafe inside the British Embassy Villa overlooking the beautiful Lake Chuzenji

After an incredible day of exploring, take the bus back up to Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station to return to Tokyo.

Day Trip To Nikko by Train

Day Trip to Nikko: How To Get to Nikko from Tokyo

1st option: tobu train route.

The most affordable and easiest way to reach Nikko with a Japan Rail Pass is by buying the Nikko Pass and traveling via the Tobu train line. Two major stations in Tokyo offer limited express trains to Nikko: Asakusa and Shinjuku. Travel time will be 2 hours regardless of the station you depart from. Traveling from Asakusa on a rapid or local train adds 30 minutes but costs about half as much as the limited express. 

The Nikko Pass includes roundtrip train fare from Tokyo plus free bus and train travel in Nikko. Since it costs less than a basic roundtrip ticket, opting for the Nikko Pass is a clear choice.  The pass is ¥2,120, with the option to upgrade to the limited express for ¥2,940 more – worthwhile to save time if you only have a day. Even with the upgrade, the pass is cheaper than a roundtrip ticket.

  2nd Option: JR(Japan Rail) Pass route

If you have a JR Pass for your trip to Japan like we did, you can use it to travel round-trip between Tokyo and Nikko. Take the Shinkansen bullet train from Tokyo Station or Ueno Station to Utsunomiya, then transfer to the JR Nikko Line. 

This route costs more and requires a transfer, but is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass.  The Tobu Line also connects Tokyo and Nikko, departing from Tobu Asakusa Station. However, it is a shared railway with JR only for part of the journey. The JR Pass is not valid on the Tobu portion so you will need to pay an additional fare to ride the Tobu Line. 

If you already have a JR Pass , the Nikko Pass likely won’t be worth purchasing since a major benefit of the Nikko Pass is the return trip from Tokyo. Another option is taking a highway bus directly to Nikko from Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, or Yokohama. The buses provide a more direct route without transfers but since you only have 1 day in Nikko, this may not be the best option.

If things seem complicated, then you also have the option to book a fully planned day trip to Nikko with a free hotel pick-up.

Is the Nikko Pass worth it for one day?

The Nikko Pass provides discounted travel to Nikko from Tokyo and within Nikko itself. Two passes are available: the 2-day World Heritage Area pass covering the main highlights or the 4-day Nikko All Area pass.  There is no Nikko 1-day pass but the 2-day World Heritage pass is recommended for a Nikko day trip from Tokyo if you don’t have a JR Pass.

Hassle-Free Day Trip to Nikko

We understand that navigating a day trip to Nikko can seem overwhelming. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of planning your own day trip to Nikko, you can have everything taken care of for you. By booking a guided tour , you can enjoy a seamless and stress-free experience exploring the beautiful sights and attractions of this historic Japanese city.

Benefits of Booking a Guided Tour to Nikko:

• Convenience : The tour operator will handle all the logistics, including transportation, entrance fees, and scheduling, so you can sit back and enjoy the journey.
• Expert Guidance : Your tour guide will provide valuable insights and information about the cultural and historical significance of the sites you visit, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of Nikko.
• Time-Saving : With a pre-planned itinerary, you won’t have to waste time figuring out where to go and how to get there. The tour will efficiently take you to the must-see destinations.
• Hassle-Free Experience : Forget about the hassle of navigating public transportation, purchasing tickets, or dealing with language barriers. The tour company will take care of everything, allowing you to focus on creating lasting memories.

To book your hassle-free day trip to Nikko, click here . Secure your spot and let the experts handle the planning, so you can simply enjoy the sights stress-free.

Is Nikko worth a day trip?

The Nikko Pass is a more affordable option than buying individual return tickets from Tokyo to Nikko. The pass also covers bus travel between attractions in the area.

However, if you have a JR Pass, we recommend using it for the train from Tokyo to Nikko instead of a Nikko Pass as it mainly provides a return ticket back to Tokyo. You can buy individual tickets for getting around the Nikko area when you get there.

Nikko offers so much natural beauty along with UNESCO World Heritage temples and shrines so it’s worth spending two to three days to fully immerse yourself in the area.  However, we understand like us, you may have limited time so even a one-day trip to Nikko is worth it. 

Nikko makes for an excellent day trip from Tokyo, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling capital. This one-day itinerary is perfect for nature lovers like us.  We hope our Nikko itinerary left you dreaming of a lovely escape to the quieter countryside of Japan.  We loved spending one day in Nikko and guess what?  We’ll be back to experience the other seasons.

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Nikko is a famous tourism site that is home to many shrines and temples , registered as World Heritage Sites . It is a great place to experience Japan's rich history and culture, and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings filled with hot springs . Throughout the year, there are many sights to enjoy, but the transition from autumn to winter is especially stunning. From mid-October to early November, the surrounding mountains are painted in brilliant fall foliage with bright reds and yellows. This article will introduce two ways to visit Nikko . The first one is a day trip, located just under two hours from Asakusa , Tokyo by express train. The second option is a two-day trip with an overnight stay.

Recommended Day-trip Course: Designed to take in all the standard sightseeing spots in the shortest time possible

2d1n itinerary: a more leisurely visit in the great expanse of nature, nikko area passes: highly recommended for visitors.

When you visit Nikko by train you will arrive at either the JR Nikko Station or the Tobu Nikko Station and these will be the starting point for visiting the major sightseeing spots and experiencing the charms of Nikko in a timely manner.

1. Tobu Nikko Station

Begin by visiting the Nikko Concierge located in the Tobu Nikko Station Tourist Center, where the staff can also speak English, in order to get information before setting out (JR Nikko Station is only a few minutes' walk away).

2. Nikko Toshogu

Our tour begins at the Nikko Toshogu World Heritage Site , Nikko 's premier attraction. This site boasts vibrant and intricate carvings that exemplify Edo period craftsmanship. Highlights include the famous carvings of animals, such as the iconic three monkeys imparting wisdom and the serene sleeping cat. Moreover, the site's ornate buildings and the magnificent five-storied pagoda stand as national treasures and significant cultural landmarks , offering a glimpse into Japan's rich heritage.

3. Iroha Saka

Linking Nikko City with Lake Chuzenji, the scenic Iroha Saka features 48 winding curves, mirroring the 48 characters of the traditional Japanese "Iroha" syllabary. This road is celebrated for its beautiful autumnal views, making it a favored route for drives. Its unique name and the spectacular display of fall foliage make the Iroha Saka a must-visit for those exploring Japan's natural beauty .

4. Kegon Falls

Kegon Falls stands among Japan's top three most renowned waterfalls, offering a majestic spectacle as water cascades from Lake Chuzenji, plunging 97 meters below with a thunderous roar. For an immersive experience, visitors are encouraged to take the elevator down to the viewing platform at the waterfall's base. Here, you can witness the falls' might up close, capturing the essence of its raw power and beauty .

5. Lake Chuzenji

Lake Chuzenji, formed roughly 20,000 years ago following the eruption of Mt. Nantai, is a testament to the area's stunning natural beauty across all four seasons . Its autumnal display, where vibrant foliage contrasts magnificently with the tranquil waters, is particularly breathtaking. Positioned at an elevation of 1,200 meters, the lake offers a cool retreat from summer 's warmth. A leisurely stroll along its shores provides an intimate experience with this picturesque landscape , allowing visitors to fully absorb the serene and captivating scenery.

6. Shinkyo Bridge

As we make our way back to Nikko Station, a visit to the sacred Shinkyo Bridge at the entrance to Mt. Nikko is a must. Registered as a World Heritage site , Shinkyo is a stunning, vermilion wooden bridge that stands out against the natural backdrop. The contrast of the bridge's bright color with the vivid greenery of spring or the spectacular fall colors of the trees creates a breathtaking scene, evoking a deep sense of awe. This iconic landmark serves as a perfect reflection of the beauty and spiritual significance of Nikko .

7. Nikko Monzen-machi

The heart of Nikko City stretches along the main street from Shinkyo Bridge to Tobu Nikko Station, a vibrant area where visitors can indulge in local culinary delights and unique souvenirs. Renowned for its yuba ( tofu skin) and traditional sweets such as yokan (sweet bean jelly), this bustling street offers a taste of Nikko 's rich culinary heritage. Additionally, the area is celebrated for its exquisite Nikko -style carvings, which are sought-after souvenirs, capturing the essence of local craftsmanship. This lively part of Nikko provides an authentic experience of the city's culture, food, and artistry.

8. Back to the Tobu and JR Nikko Stations

A leisurely walk along Monzen-machi admiring the well-known shops with long traditions will take you back towards Nikko Station.

While Nikko can be enjoyed on a day trip, spending a night there will enable you to relax in a hot spring and also take walks through the vast natural beauty surrounding it.

1. Tobu Nikko Station and JR Nikko Station 2. Nikko Yamauchi Nikko Yamauchi is a reference to three popular tourist attractions in Nikko , Japan. These include the Nikko Toshogu, the Nikko Futarasan Shrine , which is known for its matchmaking powers, and the Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple . The temple houses the Sanbutsudo, a building that contains three gold-leaf statues of Buddhist deities. All three of these sites are World Heritage Sites and have extensive grounds. It takes more than three hours to see them all. ・2a. Nikko Futarasan Shrine

The precincts of Nikko Futarasan Shrine , which is the oldest structure in Nikko Yamauchi, are surrounded by large cedar trees that create a mystical atmosphere. Many people visit this place to improve their fortunes as it is believed to have a positive impact on matchmaking and family harmony. ・2b. Nikko Toshogu

This World Heritage site showcases the exquisite architectural beauty crafted by Edo artisans. The grounds house national treasures, cultural assets, and intricate carvings throughout. ・2c. Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple

Take your time to appreciate the three 7.5-meter tall Buddhist statues inside the striking bright vermilion main hall of Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple . The grounds of Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple have been acknowledged as national historic sites and are also registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , specifically as part of the Shrines and Temples of Nikko . 3. Iroha Saka 4. Kegon Falls 5. Lake Chuzenji sightseeing boat

One can explore Lake Chuzenji either by walking along its 25-kilometer shoreline or by taking a cruise on either the Swan Boat or a sightseeing craft. The sightseeing boats take you on a complete tour of Lake Chuzenji, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the azaleas in early summer and the autumn leaves in the fall. This experience is sure to be unforgettable. 6. Nikko Yumoto Onsen

There are several inns located in Nikko Yumoto Hot Springs , which have long histories and are situated a short distance away from Lake Chuzenji. These inns offer a peaceful and relaxing environment in the mountainous region, where you can enjoy soaking in the white turbid sulfur hot springs . Enjoy a relaxing stay, as though in a resort, at an inn near the shores of Lake Chuzenji.

Yudaki Falls originates from Lake Yunoko and descends down a rocky cliff from a height of approximately 70 meters. You can reach the observation platform at the base of the falls by taking the stone steps downwards. From there, you can enjoy a truly breathtaking view. 2. Senjogahara

Senjogahara, which means "battlefield" in Japanese, is said to be named after a legend that tells the story of a battle between the gods of Mt. Nantai and Mt. Akagi for the possession of Lake Chuzenji. This vast marshland covers an area of approximately 400 hectares and is home to over 350 plant species and wild birds. You can take a nature exploration path that surrounds the marshland, which takes around two hours to hike. This path provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature and observe the diverse wildlife in the area. 3. Tobu Nikko Station and JR Nikko Station On your way back to the station from Shinkyo Bridge you can look for souvenirs as you walk along Monzen-machi.

A typical way to travel around Nikko is to use buses from Nikko Station to reach various attractions. With several cost-effective free pass options available, consider utilizing them according to your plans.

NIKKO PASS World Heritage area (Tobu Railway) - Exclusive for Foreign Tourists

Perfect for foreign tourists who want to leisurely explore the Nikko area, home to UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Nikko Toshogu Shrine , Nikko Futarasan Shrine , and Rinno-ji Temple , by taking buses from Nikko Station. The World Heritage Loop Bus within Nikko allows unlimited rides over two days. ・Price: Adults 2,120 yen, Children 630 yen ・Validity: 2 days ・Valid rail zone: Shimotsuma to Tobu Nikko /Shinfujiwara (including round-trip between Asakusa and Shimotsuma) ・Valid bus and other zones: JR Nikko Station/Tobu Nikko Station to Renkeishi World Heritage Loop Bus

MARUGOTO NIKKO Tobu Free Pass (Tobu Railway)

This pass offers unlimited rides on trains and buses in the Nikko area. It's ideal for those planning trips like the suggested 1-night, 2-day model course, allowing visits to various spots like Nikko 's temples , Chuzenji Lake , Yumoto Onsen , and Senjogahara. ・Price (from Asakusa Station): 4,810 yen (April-November), 4,390 yen (December-March) ・Validity: 4 days ・Railway Free Zone: Round-trip ticket from departure station to Shimotsuma Station, Shimotsuma Station to Tobu Nikko Station ・Bus and Other Free Zone: From Tobu Nikko Station to areas like Chuzenji Onsen , Yumoto Onsen , and Renkeishi World Heritage Loop Bus.

MARUGOTO NIKKO & KINUGAWA Tobu Free Pass

Recommended for those who want to extend their travels beyond Nikko -san to places like Kinugawa Onsen , Tobu World Square, and Nikko Edomura after exploring Nikko 's temples and Chuzenji Lake . Available for both Japanese and foreign travelers, suitable for overnight stays at Kinugawa Onsen , Kegon Falls, Yumoto Onsen , and more. ・Price (from Asakusa Station): 6,320 yen (April-November), 5,790 yen (December-March) ・Validity: 4 days ・Note: Separate purchase of express tickets is required. ・Railway Free Zone: Round-trip ticket from departure station to Shimotsuma Station, Shimotsuma Station to Tobu Nikko Station/Yumoto Onsen ・Bus and Other Free Zone: From Tobu Nikko Station to places like Chuzenji Lake , World Heritage Loop Bus, Kinugawa Onsen , Tobu World Square, and Nikko Edomura.

World Heritage Loop Ticket

In addition to the World Heritage Loop Bus that visits various spots including Nikko 's temples , this pass allows unlimited rides on Tobu route buses between Nikko Station and Renkeishi. Ideal for those who want to explore Nikko -san by bus affordably. ・Price: 600 yen (Children half price) ・Validity: Same day only ・Bus and Other Free Zone: "World Heritage Loop Bus" visiting Nikko 's temples and Kambashi, Tobu route buses between JR Nikko Station/Tobu Nikko Station and Rengeishi.

Other Passes

Other passes like Chuzenji Onsen Free Pass (2,300 yen), Yumoto Onsen Free Pass (3,500 yen), Kirifuri Highland Free Pass (1,500 yen) allow unlimited rides on Tobu buses within their respective zones for two days. Ideal for those who want to leisurely explore areas like Chuzenji Onsen and Senjogahara.

Exploring the city center and surrounding areas of Nikko should be enjoyable even for day trips. However, since you're visiting Nikko , consider extending your trip to enjoy places like Yumoto Onsen . With various accommodations scattered throughout Nikko , find your preferred lodging. Whether it's a day trip or a 1-night, 2-day stay, don't forget to take advantage of these cost-effective free passes.

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How to Have a Perfect Day Trip to Nikko (with our local tips)

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A day trip to Nikko is one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo. But, if you only have one day there, how can ensure you’re visiting the most impressive sights or visiting the best places to eat?

Well, one way is to ask someone who lives in the town, which is why I’m thrilled that our guide to how to spend one day in Nikko is Jigami Yoshiyuki san.

Mr Jigami is the manager of the Kanaya Hotel, which has been welcoming guests to the city since 1873.

Although not originally from Nikko, he fell in love with the nature and history of the small town and has been living there and working at the Kanaya Hotel for 27 years.

After working as a reception staff, driver, and various other roles within the hotel, he now works as the hotel manager.

Article by Helen Foster. Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. See our Affiliate Disclosure.

Why Should You Take a Day Trip to Nikko?

Get ahead of the crowds, try a lunch with yuba, getting the perfect bridge picture, don’t miss the shaved ice, hidden gems in nikko, is one day in nikko enough, where to stay overnight, how to get to nikko from tokyo, buying tickets from tokyo to nikko.

Because if you’re looking for a Tokyo day trip, Nikko is perfect.

It’s located around 100km north of Tokyo and is easily accessed by train if you’re an independent traveler or via a number of different tours that leave Tokyo in the morning and come back late afternoon if you like someone else to do the driving.

Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its complex of three temples and shrines – two Shinto, and one Buddhist – that include 103 different religious buildings located in beautiful natural surroundings.

Some of the most popular sights include the Toshogu Shrine (one of the three mentioned above), which is known for its ornate wood carvings; Kegon Falls – named as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan (below), and Edo Wonderland – a cultural park that replicates life in the Edo period located about 20 minutes drive, or 30 minutes by bus, from the main town.

The new Tobu World Square which contains replicas of 102 of the world’s most famous buildings is also nearby.

So, of the sights, what does Mr Jigami say are the ones you absolutely shouldn’t miss? ‘My favorite sights in Nikko include the iconic Toshogu Shrine and Shinkyo Bridge. These are representative of the beauty, history, and culture of this area,’ he says.

‘Lake Chuzenji is the best place to chill out and relax. It is also a great place for hiking in the nature of the Nikko National Park.’

While Nikko is famous for its beautiful displays of gold, red and copper autumn leaves Mr Jigami says June-July is his favorite season to explore Nikko because there are fewer crowds and you are able to enjoy lush greenery.

If you’re just on a one-day trip to Nikko, Mr. Jigami suggests that the first thing you do when you get to the city is ‘head to Nikko’s famous and iconic temple and shrines (Toshogu Shrine, Nikko Futarasan shrine, and Rinnoji Temple).’

Because they are the most popular sites in Nikko, they will also be the most crowded, but if you can get there before some of the tour buses arrive from Tokyo, you can try and beat the crowds.

The best way to do this is to stay overnight and arrive at the complex when they open at 8am and head to Toshogu Shrine first as this is the most popular.

If that’s not feasible, take the earliest train you can from Tokyo and head here first. You can then visit the other two sites, which are within walking distance. The complex is about a 30-minute walk from the Tobu Nikko station.

The crowds also disappear late afternoon, so, if you don’t want to spend too long exploring the complex – hold off visiting the shrines until after 3pm – checking the closing time of course.

Just remember that there is a lot of detail on the site to check out. There are amazing carvings, including the famous detail based on the Three Wise Monkeys, intricate detailing, carved lanterns, pagodas, and the resting place of the first shogun.

Yuba is a specialty of Nikko. It’s often referred to as tofu skin, but it’s actually the skin that forms on the top of soy milk when it’s slowly heated.

At one point, only priests and royalty were allowed to eat yuba and they would come to Nikko specially for the privilege.

Today many Nikko restaurants still serve yuba – and some offer multi-course meals based around the local delicacy as it’s actually incredibly versatile.

So, where would Mr Jigami suggest visitors go to try it?

‘ Takaiya. One of the best local recommended restaurants,’ he says. ‘The Kaiseki style restaurant gives the authentic taste of “washoku” (Japanese food) as well as yuba. It’s ideal for those who are looking for a cozy but also luxurious dinner experience in the historic town.

Also, consider Yubatei Masudaya . Reasonable prices but unforgettable experiences are offered at this restaurant, from Yuba Sashimi to Yuba simmered in stock (Nimono-style).’

Reservations are essential for Takaiya, and you can find prices and more information in English on their website.

Yubatei Masudaya seats 40 people on their ground floor but it’s still best to make a reservation- and if you want to eat in their teahouse or traditional Japanese seating room, reservations are essential. Again, they have prices and a list of the courses in their Yuba menu in English on their website.

If you can’t get a reservation or would prefer not to have a multicourse lunch, many, many restaurants in Nikko serve yuba – look for the word ゆば on the sign or menu.

You can also buy yuba to take home – Fujiya is the shop to find if you want to take some home.

Shinkyo Bridge is one of the prettiest – and most Instagrammable spots – in Nikko, so we asked Mr Jigami for his best photographic tip.

‘In the summer season, the red bridge and the background green scenery clash with each other, creating a very aesthetically pleasing scene.

Here people can write their wishes on paper planes and fly them onto the river (this is a common way to ‘grant your wishes here’) – by doing so, you will make the photo an interesting story with the paper plane flying in it.’

He also suggests photographers visit Kegon Falls ‘in Autumn, which offers a stunning view with the autumn foliage in the background. From early November, the falls are illuminated at night, giving overnight stayers in Nikko another nighttime activity in which to participate.’

There are various establishments in Nikko that sell the natural ice served as ‘kakigōri’ – this is a traditional Japanese summer favorite, and you can buy it anywhere, so why should you make sure you try it, specifically, as part of your Nikko day trip?

Because the people who make ice in Nikko use the same methods, they have used for centuries.

During the peak of winter, they collect the frozen high-quality spring water that flows from the Nikko mountain range and store it for use in the summertime.

With a history dating back hundreds of years, traditional kakigōri is shaved so thin and fluffy that it is like freshly fallen snow and is completed with flavored syrups and other toppings.

Although this dessert can be found nationwide, not many places offer kakigōri made with natural ice as Nikko does.

Like yuba, you’ll find kakigori around town. Still, Mr Jigami suggests you visit his hotel to try their version as the café located inside the Nikko Kanaya Hotel offers shaved ice served with a special syrup made from another local specialty – ‘tochiotome’ strawberries.

As we said, Nikko’s main temples are famous worldwide, but what less-visited local sights does Mr Jigami think you should also try and add to your day?

His first answer is Kanmangafuchi Abyss , his favorite and one of Nikko’s ‘best’ hidden gems.

This gorge is about a 30-minute walk from the Toshogu Shrine and it’s not just a beautiful river view; the walkway is also lined by 70 stone statues.

‘The 70 stone statues of Jizo statue produce a spiritual atmosphere and would be the perfect way to experience Japan off the beaten path.

You can feel the Japanese “Zen” feelings while walking this path.

The Jizo statues here represent Buddhist deities that protect children, women, and travelers, and their alignment gives off a unique atmosphere.’

Another place not every tourist visits is Senjogahara, where he says you can immerse yourself in the nature of the 114,908-hectare Nikko National Park while hiking. This place is also a great place to enjoy star-gazing.

I’m going to answer for Mr Jigami here. You can see the main sights quickly in one day, but…

If you want to explore the town as well as the main sights (and maybe pick up some of the many Three Wise Monkeys souvenirs you’ll find in the shops) and take in some other fun sights like Edo Wonderland and Tobu World Square that are a bit further out of town, then it might be better to spend at least one night in the town.

This also gives you the benefit of being able to get to the busy sights before the crowds.

If you want to go hiking in the National Park, you’ll definitely need more than one night.

While most people take a day trip to Nikko from Tokyo and so leave in the evening, if you want to explore the town for longer to beat the temple crowds, soak in one of the many natural springs – or try the beautiful stargazing, you need more time so where should you stay?

‘Of course I recommend the Kanaya Hotel the most!,’ says Yoshiyuki san. ‘This is the oldest hotel in Japan and has been open since 1873. The hotel is located near Nikko’s main attractions, making it the best place to base yourself while exploring the area.

The building architecture is a unique mix of Japanese and European designs, making it a pleasure to stay in.’

As well as staying in the hotel, Mr Jigami recommends visitors to Nikko visit the hotel to try their curry rice that follows a 100-year-old recipe.

If you want to see more about the hotel, visit their website

If you’re interested in room rates and availability, then click here.

Via JR Lines

If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you will want to travel by the JR lines to Nikko, as this will be included in the pass. Take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya from Tokyo station or Ueno, then change onto the JR Nikko line to Nikko station. This takes a little under 2 hours.

The Whole Japan Rail Pass is unlikely to pay for itself anymore, but the JR Tokyo Wide Pass is a 3-Day Pass that covers both Nikko and Mount Fuji. If you are hoping to cover both of these sights – and can do it within three days – it will save you some money.

Check prices for the JR Tokyo Wide Pass here.

With a Japan Rail Pass

If you don’t have a Rail Pass or don’t want to use it yet in your journey (see how to work out how long a pass you need or whether the Japan Rail Pass is right for your trip here ), then you can take the Tobu Railway from Tobu Asakusa or Tokyo Skytree stations.

From here, the fastest option is to take the Tobu Railway Limited Express, which will take you directly to Nikko in just under 2 hours.

If you want to get to Nikko before the crowds though, you’ll want to take the slightly slower Revarty Kegon Limited Express, which leaves Tokyo at 6.30am and gets you to Nikko at 8.23.

This train also divides during its journey at Shimo-imaichi – make sure you’re in the right half of the train. According to the timetable, the back three carriages go to Nikko (but double-check this on the day).

Don’t panic if you realize you’re in the wrong half on the way there; the train waits for four minutes at Shimo-imaichi so you will have time to swap.

If your hotel is closer to Shinjuku, then use the Spacia Nikko, which departs once a day directly from Shinjuku station.

Timetables in English for both options are here .

The JR Pass is not accepted on Tobu Railway, so you’ll need to buy tickets at the ticket office.

Whatever train you’re getting, you need to buy a standard fare ticket to Nikko – but, when travelling on trains called the Limited Express in Japan (as you are here), you also need to buy a Limited Express ticket to get yourself a seat. Think of it as kind of like adding a supplement for a faster service.

If you buy your ticket from one of the Tobu service centers at Asakusa station, they will be used to tourists and help you through all of this. If you prefer to use the machine, pick the reserved seat option so you know where you’re sitting on the train

If you are going to Nikko for a couple of days or, want to cram in a lot of sightseeing on your day trip, you might also want to buy one of the Nikko passes from Tobu Railways, which cover trains and buses in the region plus offer discounts on some attractions in the area. Find more information here .

So, there you have it, our guide to the perfect Tokyo to Nikko day trip – or even a longer stay.

Thanks to Satsuki Hosokawa at The Doq agency, Sydney, for conducting and translating the interview with Mr Jigami. Images of Kenyon Falls, Toshogu Shrine, Kanmangafuchi Abyss, Yuba dinner, and Lake Chuzenji used with permission of Doq.

Who Writes This Blog?

My name is Helen Foster, and I’m a journalist and author. My travel articles have appeared in publications including The Australian, RAC Horizons, Jetstar Magazine, Sainsbury’s Magazine, and more.

I’ve traveled to Japan five times before- solo and with my partner – and I’ve just returned from trip six in June 2023. So, everything here is pretty up to date.

• Tokyo Cheapo (繁體中文)

Easy Nikkō Day Trip Guide [With Video]

Nikkō, in Tochigi Prefecture , is a destination favored among both international and local tourists. With its stunning mountain scenery and variegated foliage, it’s a choice location for admiring Japan’s distinct seasonal changes.

Nikkō is an unmissable travel destination and a convenient day trip from Tokyo . Soak your feet in an onsen overlooking a lake, or gaze upon centuries-old carvings at UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Getting to Nikkō: Transportation and discount tickets

Probably the easiest, most comfortable, and most cost-effective way to travel to Nikkō is via the Tobu Railway from Asakusa Station. It takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes on a limited express train and costs ¥ 3,050 one-way.

You can reduce the cost by purchasing a two-day Nikkō Pass (known as the Nikkō World Heritage Area Pass) for ¥ 2,120 . This covers the basic fare ( ¥ 2,800 return) from Asakusa to Tōbu-Nikkō Station, but you’ll have to pay extra for a seat on the limited express trains.

See all of the options in our dedicated guide to transport from Tokyo to Nikkō .

Tours from Tokyo to Nikkō

It’s hard to see everything in Nikkō in just one day, so a guided tour is recommended if you want to explore further than the shrines and temples in Central Nikkō. This top-rated bus tour includes a visit to Tōshōgū Shrine, Lake Chūzenji, and Kegon Falls. Prices start from a reasonable ¥ 10,500 per person.

If you’re in a group, this private van tour with an English-speaking driver is perfect. You get to hit up all the famous spots but in the privacy and comfort of a private vehicle. A group of up to four people costs ¥ 64,000 all in, while a group of up to 13 (!) can be accommodated in a minivan for ¥ 71,795 total.

If you would prefer a driver who can be more of a tour guide, as opposed to just a chauffeur, this private tour with English-speaking guide costs ¥ 90,000 – ¥ 150,000 for up to 13 passengers.

And if you are looking to explore even more of Tochigi? Consider a 2-night getaway in the countryside — full of hot springs and history. Note: This package has limited availability.

Central Nikkō: Getting there and things to do

Due to the high concentration of natural and historical landmarks in the same area, it’s possible to see a great deal of Nikkō over two or three days. However, if you are just on a day trip, it may be worth focusing on the shops, shrines, and temples in Central Nikkō.

Getting to and around Central Nikkō

Most of Central Nikkō can be accessed either on foot (20 to 30 minutes from Tōbu-Nikkō Station) or by the World Heritage Loop Bus (also from the station). The two-day Nikkō Pass (Nikkō World Heritage Area Pass) covers this bus route and also includes train access up to Kinugawa Onsen and beyond.

Things to see and do in Central Nikkō

With 103 buildings and structures, it’s easy to lose track of time and place in the UNESCO World Heritage Shrines and Temples of Central Nikkō. Here, we highlight some of the most popular and not-to-be-missed landmarks.

Shinkyō Bridge

5-minute bus or 23-minute walk from Tōbu-Nikkō Station Free; ¥ 300 to cross the bridge

This red, vermillion wooden icon is seen as the entrance to Nikkō and is one of the most recognizable bridges in Japan. Shinkyō Bridge crosses the Daiya River and has a beautiful mountainous backdrop that changes color throughout the seasons.

Originally built at the end of the Nara period, the bridge was rebuilt in 1987 and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.

If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot a bride and groom’s first crossing after their marriage in the affiliated Nikkō Futarasan Shrine. The end of the bridge once started the approach to Tōshōgu Shrine. Note that if you pay the ¥ 300 to cross, you’ll still have to come back the way you came.

Tōshōgū Shrine

10-minute bus or 36-minute walk from Tōbu-Nikkō Station ¥ 1,300

Tōshōgū Shrine , built in 1617, is the mausoleum of the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu.  Featuring elements of Buddhist and Shinto architecture, Tōshōgū Shrine is renowned for its highly ornate façade.

Well-known features of Tōshōgū Shrine include the wooden inlay of the three wise monkeys (‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil’) and nemuri-neko , a sleeping cat located near the karamon gate. Also spot the elephants motif, which was crafted by an artist who had never seen elephants before — see if you can tell their tails from their trunks.

Rinnōji Temple

10-minute bus or 30-minute walk from Tōbu-Nikkō Station ¥ 400 for Sanbutsudo Hall only; ¥ 500 for Sanbutsudo Hall, Treasure Hall, and Shōyō-en Garden

Near Tōshōgū Shrine is Rinnōji , a Buddhist temple built in the 8 th century and founded by the monk Shōdō Shōnin. In the main Sanbutsudo Hall, you’ll find three 8-meter-tall golden Buddhas related to Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro. The treasure house just opposite also holds precious artworks and statues. Next to Sanbutsudo Hall is the classical garden, Shōyō-en, a pleasant space in which to relax and enjoy the seasonal imagery of Nikkō.

Taiyūin Temple and Mausoleum

15-minute bus or 40-minute walk from Tōbu-Nikkō Station ¥ 550 for Taiyūin; ¥ 900 for Sanbutsudo Hall (Rinnōji) and Taiyūin

Taiyūin Temple is the companion piece to Tōshōgū Shrine, being the mausoleum of Ieyasu’s grandson, Iemitsu. Although less grand than Tōshōgū, Taiyūin still deserves attention, not least for its white dragon statue near the Karamon Gate and the Nio statues at the Niomon Gate.

Kanmangafuchi Abyss

5-minute bus and 10-minute walk or 40- to 45-minute walk from Tōbu-Nikkō Station Free

Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a pleasant walking trail through a valley with a babbling river. Known for its red-hatted jizo statues (monk protectors of women, children, and travelers), the trail is said to have a mystery; each time you count the statues, the number changes. Adding to the mysticism is a Sanskrit character carved into stone that is said to be engraved by the founder of Shingon Buddhism, Kōbō Daishi.

Kinugawa Onsen: Getting there and things to do

Kinugawa Onsen is a hot spring town just to the east of Central Nikkō. It’s not too far from the shrines and temples, so it can be added on if you want to utilize the Nikko pass.

Getting to and around Kinugawa Onsen

As with Tobu-Nikko, Kinugawa Onsen Station has direct access using the Tobu Railway from Asakusa Station. The area from Shimo-Imaichi Station to Kinugawa Onsen and even farther to Shin-Fujiwara has all-you-can-ride coverage on both Nikkō passes . It also includes one return trip from Asakusa.

Things to see and do around Kinugawa Onsen

You can always tag these two adventures on a day trip to Central Nikkō.

Edo Wonderland Nikkō Edomura

15-minute bus from Kinugawa Onsen Station or free 30-minute shuttle from Nikkō Station ¥ 5,800 one-day pass; ¥ 5,000 for afternoon pass; get tickets here

Edo Wonderland Nikkō Edomura is your opportunity to walk in the footsteps of those who lived in the Edo period (1615-1868). The family-orientated theme park is filled with folks in traditional costumes — guests and actors. But if you don’t want to dress up then there are also experience zones, shopping, and archery challenges.

Tobu World Square

5-minute bus from Kinugawa Onsen Station or 1-minute walk from Tobu World Square Station ¥ 2,800 ; get tickets here

Love the small things? Interested in the miniscule? Then you may want to visit Tobu World Square . Inside the theme park are more than 100 famous buildings from 22 countries, but how can they all fit inside? They’re at 1/25th the scale of the originals. The park is easy to get to — it has its own train station — so it’s an easy add-on if you’re looking for things to do in the area.

Nikkō National Park: Getting there and things to do

To enter the heart of Nikkō National Park, one of Japan’s most beautiful national parks , you’ll need to go a bit farther than Central Nikkō and may require more than a day. The 2-day Nikkō Pass does not cover travel in this area — but the 4-day Nikkō All Area Pass does .

How to get around Nikkō National Park (Lake Chūzenji and beyond)

You can hop on a bus bound for Lake Chūzenji at either JR Tōbu or Tōbu-Nikkō stations. The 45-minute drive on the sinuous Irohazaka Winding Road will lead you past Shinkyō Bridge and smaller waterfalls such as Urami Falls and Jakko Falls. Chūzenji Onsen, the town next to the lake and at the foot of Mount Nantai , is a good resting spot if you plan to spend the night and can be a hub for other attractions in the area.

Things to do around Nikkō National Park

It may take a bit more planning to see all the sights of Nikkō National Park, especially if you are relying on timetables and public transport. You might consider renting a car , if this area is the main focus of your Nikkō trip.

Akechidaira Ropeway Observation Deck

35-minute bus from Tōbu-Nikkō Station ¥ 1,000 round trip on ropeway

On your way to Lake Chūzenji, you’ll pass the start of the Akechidaira Ropeway . Get off and jump on a 3-minute ropeway to the observation deck for perhaps the most iconic landscape shot of Nikkō. If you go in autumn, you’re bound to be queuing for a while but it’ll be well worth it. It closes early at around 3:30 p.m. and they sometimes suspend it due to weather or safety checks, so make sure to check the website before you go.

Kegon Falls

45-minute bus from Tōbu-Nikkō Station Free for ground-floor deck; ¥ 570 for lower deck

Hop off the bus at Kegon Falls , which at 97 metres is one of the three largest waterfalls in Japan. You can view it for free from above (on a ground-level platform), but for the best view, you’ll have to go below the rock. This lower deck costs ¥ 570 but treats the viewer to plummeting plumes that you can’t see anywhere else.

Tip: Although not as impressive as Kegon Falls, Yudaki Falls is still worth a visit.  Get up close and personal at the bottom of Yudaki Falls while cracking open a cold one made available to you via the adjacent convenience store.

Lake Chūzenji

53-minute bus from Tōbu-Nikkō Station Free; ¥ 1,680 for a 55-minute cruise

Lake Chūzenji is the highest lake in Japan, with many activities to do on the water or along the lakeside. You can take a pleasant walk or hike around it, hire a swan paddleboat, or opt for a cruise. The lakeside has a lot of cute cafés and souvenir shops, as well as the British and Italian embassies’ memorial parks.

Ryuzu Falls

1-hour bus from Tōbu-Nikkō Station; or 10-minute bus from Lake Chūzenji Free

While not as imposing as Kegon Falls, the Ryuzu Falls are a peaceful jaunt into nature that highlights some of the best leaves of Nikko’s fall season. The café Ryuzu no Chaya is a great resting spot, with seats that look out onto the crashing waters below.

Senjōgahara Marshland

1-hour-5-minute bus from Tōbu-Nikkō Station; or 15-minute bus from Lake Chūzenji Free

If you are heading to Ryuzu Falls, you might as well keep going to Senjōgahara . It’s known for its crisp, autumn landscapes, and you have two choices to see the best vistas. You can either take the bus to the Senjogahara Marshland Observation Deck on the main road or stretch your legs and go for a hike. There are several trails to choose from (incl. one near Ryuzu Falls) that wind through the marshes, one in particular only takes around an hour and all are well-kept and flat.

Senjugahama

What to eat in nikkō.

In Nikkō, the most famous thing to fill your belly with is yuba , otherwise known as tofu skin. Yuba has been a delicacy in the area for centuries — most likely due to the nearby monks who only chowed down on veggies. And you may be thinking there’s not much they can do with tofu skin, but you’d be wrong. Many yuba restaurants in Nikko serve the dish raw, steamed, baked, and fried on a tasting platter for somewhere between ¥ 1,000 to ¥ 2,000 . We recommend the restaurant Shiori for its welcoming atmosphere and explanations in English.

A sweet treat to try is the Yubamanju sold outside Tōbu-Nikkō Station. It is filled to the brim with red bean paste and sprinkled with salt. At only ¥ 250 you can’t go wrong.

Where to stay: Accommodation in Nikkō

Nikkō runs the gamut of accommodation options, from deluxe, five-star hotels with private onsen to modest, yet nonetheless decent budget accommodation. You can either stay in Central Nikkō or nearer Lake Chūzenji, depending on what attractions you have planned.

Affordability granted, several hostels impress due to their friendly service, location, and amenities. Try Nikkō Guesthouse Sumica near the station for dormitory beds around the ¥ 4,000 mark. For hotels, try Nikkō Akarinoyado Villa Revage (mid-range) or the very popular Nikkō Park Lodge (cheap-cheap) near Tōbu-Nikkō Station.

What is Nikkō famous for?

Nikkō is most famous for its Buddhist and Shinto shrines and temples, which are designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But it is also known for its abundance of nature, autumn colors, and black bears.

Can Nikkō be a day trip from Tokyo?

Yes, Nikkō can be done as a day trip from Tokyo. We recommend spending the day in Central Nikkō, as this has easy access to the main station and attractions by foot or a quick bus ride.

When is the best time to visit Nikkō?

Visitors tend to flock to Nikkō during two periods of the year — first, in April for hanami (cherry-blossom viewing) and second, around November for the beautiful autumn leaves , kōyō.

Which is better: Nikkō or Hakone?

Both Nikkō and Hakone are known for their mountains, onsen, and lakes. And while Hakone has a steaming volcanic valley and sightings of Mount Fuji, Nikkō has a labyrinth of historical shrines and temples, as well as a spectacular waterfall.

Is Nikkō worth visiting?

While we do our best to ensure that everything is correct, information is subject to change. Originally published in June 2015. Last updated in September 2023.

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
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The ultimate day trip from Tokyo to Nikko

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Last updated on: 23 January 2024

In this day trip from Tokyo to Nikko you will admire impressive shrines, relax by a lake, hike in nature and taste local delicacies. I had been waiting for this day, as this corner of Japan looked lovely on photos. I could not wait to find out what there is to see in Nikko.

Table of Contents

Map of nikko japan with all sights mentioned in this day trip from tokyo, a bit about the history of nikko.

The history of Nikko dates back centuries, but it became especially important during the Edo period (1603-1868). It was then that the town became a major center for Shinto and Buddhist worship, and shrines were commissioned by the ruling Tokugawa shoguns. The entire area, known as Nikko’s Shrines and Temples, is the ultimate example of Japanese architectural and artistic expression.

Beyond its religious significance, Nikko also played a strategic role as a resting place for travelers on the ancient trade route that connected Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to the rest of Japan. The who sought inspiration and tranquility. Today, Nikko National Park continues to offer beautiful mountainous landscapes, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, wild monkeys and hiking trails. In this Nikko itinerary you will get a lot of great ideas about how to spend 1 day in Nikko.

Trying yuba manju, a Nikko delicacy

Our day trip to Nikko started right outside Nikko station, where we stopped at Sakaeya ​​Fried Yubamanju to try the local rice pastry with bean filling called yuba manju. It had this sweet and salty deliciousness, and I ended up having 3 or 4 by the end of the day. 😀

Crossing an iconic bridge

We continued on foot on the main street until we reached Shinkyo Bridge , one of the major attractions in Nikko. The current bridge dates from 1636 and spans over the Daiya River and is considered one of the most iconic and revered landmarks in Nikko. You will immediately notice the characteristic vermilion color as well as its intricate details. I was impressed by how the bridge’s elegant design blends perfectly with the surrounding nature. 

One remarkable aspect of the Shinkyo Bridge is its association with Shinto beliefs. It is said to mark the transition from the secular world to the sacred precincts of the shrines and temples nearby. Because of this, it holds spiritual significance and crossing it is believed to bring good fortune. It is no surprise that the bridge is ranked as one of Japan’s three finest bridges.

Toshogu shrine: a Nikko highlight

We continued uphill until we encountered the first of many shrines: Toshogu shrine (Tōshō-gū Shrine). This is without a doubt one of the top things to do in Nikko.

The shrine is the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate that ruled Japan for over 250 years until 1868. This lavishly decorated shrine complex consists of more than a dozen buildings and is surrounded by a beautiful forest. The shrine contains countless wood carvings and large amounts of gold which decorate the buildings in a way not seen elsewhere in Japan. This is perhaps the most lavishly decorated shrine you will find in the whole of Japan.

You may notice that Toshogu contains both Shinto and Buddhist elements. This was common practice until the Meiji Period (1850-1889) when Shinto was deliberately separated from Buddhism. Across Japan, Buddhist elements were removed from shrines. However, at Toshogu shrine Buddhism and Shinto were so intermingled that the separation was not carried out completely.

The place that established Buddhism in Nikko

Next to Toshogu Shrine you will find Futarasan Shrine . This is much older than its more lavish neighbor, founded in 782 by Monk Shodo Shonin. He was a Buddhist monk who introduced Buddhism to Nikko and who also also founded nearby Rinno-ji Temple.

Futarasan Shrine is dedicated to the deities of Nikko’s three most sacred mountains: Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho and Mount Taro. Futarasan is an alternate name of Mount Nantai, the most prominent of the three mountains.

The shrine grounds are mostly free to enter except for a small paid area to the left of haiden (the offering hall). The paid area features a small forested garden with a couple more halls, a spring, old sacred trees and closer views onto the main hall that stands behind the offering hall. The Shinkyo Bridge also belongs to Futarasan Shrine. This was one of the more peaceful places of our Nikko day trip with very few tourists.

Visiting Nikko's most important temple

A little further you will come across Rinno-ji Treasure House , which is Nikko’s most important temple. It was founded by Shodo Shonin, the Buddhist monk who introduced Buddhism to Nikko in the 8th century. The temple’s main building (called Sanbutsudo), houses large, gold lacquered wooden statues three deities. These deities are:

• Senju-Kannon (“Kannon deity with a thousand arms”)
• Bato-Kannon (“Kannon deity with a horse head”).

The three deities are regarded as Buddhist manifestations of Nikko’s three mountain deities which are enshrined at Futarasan Shrine.

Imperial Nikko & two hidden gems

As we made our way uphill, we paid a visit to the following:

Tamozawa Imperial Villa , a former imperial summer residence constructed for Emperor Taishō in 1899. It served as a hide-out for emperor Hirohito during World War II. The former imperial residence is now open for the public as museum and garden.

Iemitsu Mausoleum (Taiyuin-byo) , the mausoleum of the third Tokugawa shogun (military dictator), Iemitsu, the grandson of Ieyasu. It is located the farthest away of all Nikko’s sites and nestled within the crest of a hill amongst ancient cedars that lend a spiritual charge to the air. Taiyuin-byo is thankfully not nearly busy as other tourist sites. 

Last but not least, we also walked around Kanmangafuchi Abyss . It is a small gorge that was formed by an eruption of nearby Mount Nantai. It is only a few hundred meters long and can be enjoyed from a pleasant riverside walking trail. Kanmangafuchi is now also known for its row of about 70 stone statues of Jizo.

Each of the Jizo is a Bodhisattva (a person who can reach nirvana). A Jizo cares for the deceased.

This particular group of Jizo statues is also called “Hyaku Jizo” (100 Jizo), “Bake Jizo” (Ghost Jizo) or “Narabi Jizo” (Jizo in a line). The statues look out over the river and across to the Nikko Botanical Garden, but you cannot enter the botanical garden from the Abyss.

Ending the day marveling at waterfalls & a scenic lake

From Nikko, we took the bus to Kegon Falls . This is one of the less visited points of interest around Nikko, but not less interesting. The bus leaves from Nikko train station with a few stops on the way, so you can catch it up the road. The ride took around 45 minutes and was very scenic. The bus drops you off at the terminal in Chuzenji Onsen.

Kegon Falls is a 5-10 minute walk from the bus terminal. There is a free observation deck overlooking the waterfall, as well as an elevator to another one at the bottom of the valley. The 100-meter (328 ft) waterfall is the biggest in Nikko, and one of Japan’s most beautiful. If you are lucky to visit in autumn, you will witness the amazing colors of the trees.

Kegon Falls and surrounding area are a perfect chance for those who wish to escape the crowds. The falls have a somewhat dark history. The waterfall has been the location for many young people’s suicides following the jumping of philosophy student and poet Misao Fujimura   in 1903. Misao wrote a farewell poem on a tree trunk.

We then strolled through the streets of the town and relaxed at the shores of Lake Chūzenji . This lake is also called Sea of Happiness and was created 20,000 years ago when nearby Mount Nantai (2, 484 m / 8,120 ft) erupted and blocked the river. This was very enjoyable, because there were hardly any tourists.

Late in the afternoon, we took the bus back to Nikko, then switched to the train back to Tokyo . Our day trip to Nikko was over, but we had a lot of amazing memories to cherish!

Extra: hiking along the Nikko Kaido Cherry Blossom Trail

If you would like to experience the famous cherry blossom, the Nikko Kaido Cherry Blossom Trail (Nikko Kaido Sakura Route) is one of the best ways to do so. The trail was originally set up for the nobles of the Tokugawa clan on their way from Tokyo to Nikko. The trail takes you along more than 1,500 cherry blossom trees and beautiful small shrines. The trail takes you through some very nice places within Nikko National Park.

Depending on the weather, the end of March/beginning of April is the time to go. The trail is approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) long. If you can turn your visit into a 2 day Nikko itinerary, you can admire the sights I described above on day 1, then hike along the Nikko Kaido Cherry Blossom Trail on day 2. Here you can find the exact map of the trail. 

The nearby town of Kinugawa Onsen is also worth visiting. Overall, spending 2 days in Nikko will allow you to appreciate the beauty and special atmosphere of the area. I highly recommend planning a Nikko 2 day itinerary if you can.

Nikko practical information

Best time to visit nikko.

Nikko and the surrounding area is north of Tokyo at an altitude of 200 to 1,500 meters (650 to 4,900 ft). The weather can be significantly cooler in winter. Autumn in Nikko Japan is said to be the best time. I visited in late September and it was very nice to witness the changing colors of the leaves. 

How many days in Nikko

One day in Nikko is enough to visit the highlights, such as temples and shrines. If you spend 2 days in Nikko, you will be able to appreciate the stunning nature more and take beautiful hikes. 

Spending a night: best ryokans in Nikko

The area around Nikko is beautiful, and I strongly recommend spending at least one night if you can. An even more magical experience is to stay in a traditional Japanese accommodation (ryokan). The best ryokans in Nikko based on ratings are:

• Hoshino Yado
• Senhime Monogatari
• Yumoto Itaya

How to get to Nikko from Tokyo

By car : Nikko is 140-160km (87-100 miles) from Tokyo and the journey by car takes 2 hours. However, you do not really need a car unless you are planning on spending more days and moving frequently between places in Nikko area frequently. If you do decide to rent a car, I highly recommend Discover cars for the best rental car rates .

By public transportation : There are many ways to get to Nikko from Tokyo . 

• From Tokyo Station or Ueno station , you can take Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya. From there, you will have to switch to the Nikko Line . The total journey takes approximately 2 hours.
• From Shinjuku or Shibuya , you can take the JR Tobu Nikko Express . The journey takes 2 hours.
• Variant 1 is the Kegon, which goes to Tobu Nikko directly. It is the fastest route to Nikko and takes 1 hour and 50 minutes. 
• Variant 2 is Kinu with destination Kinugawa Onsen. This option requires a stop at Shimo-imaichi Station. From there, you have to switch to the Tobu Nikko Line for the 10-minute journey to Tobu Nikko Station. The journey takes about 2 hours.
• For Spacia X, you can get the Nikko Kinugawa Discount Pass, which is available in several versions. For example, there is a Nikko City Area Pass that is valid for two days. It enables you to access to central parts of Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen as well as Shin-Fujiwara.

Japan Rail Pass covers all options above, except Spacia X. Just plan your journey with Google Maps and see which connection works best for you based on when you are leaving. I suggest leaving no later than 9 am to make the most of your day.

Another option is a Nikko pass , which also includes access to many sights. For details, you can check this page .

So, is Nikko worth visiting?

Nikko was one of the highlights of our 3-week Japan itinerary ! In fact, I think about Nikko often, even long after my visit to Japan. This is a good sigh. 🙂 I hope that this Nikko day trip itinerary from Tokyo has convinced you to include Nikko in your visit to Japan. 

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About the author

Hi there, my name is Panos and I live and breathe for traveling! I have visited more than 55 countries so far and aim to discover them all! In my eyes, traveling is not a lifestyle item, but a way to learn and broaden one’s horizons. My philosophy is that, if you plan well, you can discover new places in a more relaxed way without spending a fortune. Being a natural-born travel planning consultant, I love making amazing trips accessible to everyone. I have done tons of on-the-ground research before each trip, and have documented my journeys in detail.

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Nikko (����, Nikkō) is a town at the entrance to Nikko National Park, most famous for Toshogu , Japan's most lavishly decorated shrine and the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu , the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.

Nikko had been a center of Shinto and Buddhist mountain worship for many centuries before Toshogu was built in the 1600s, and Nikko National Park continues to offer scenic, mountainous landscapes, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs , wild monkeys and hiking trails.

Nikko and the Okunikko area around Lake Chuzenji , in particular, are well known for their beautiful autumn colors (koyo). In the average year the colors start descending from the higher elevations of Yumoto Onsen in early October, are best around Lake Chuzenji and the Irohazaka road in mid to late October and reach the town of Nikko in the first half of November.

Nikko is located along Japan's Romantic Road .

Top attractions in Nikko

Nikko by interest

Getting there and around

Itinerary ideas.

• Iconic Shinkyo Bridge
• World-famous temples and shrines
• Tour an imperial villa

• Three beautiful waterfalls
• Hike through a marshland
• Picturesque Lake Yunoko

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Nikko national park, hotels around nikko, nikko hotel guide.

How to choose the best places to stay in Nikko

Experiences around Nikko

Nikko Day Trip

• 7.90 / 10 54 reviews | 974 travellers Very good. We had the best guide we have found in Japan during our trip 10 Luna Martinez
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the service starts
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On this day trip to Nikko from Tokyo , we'll explore the temples and vegetation of this World Heritage Site . We'll see shrines among mountains and breathtaking waterfalls.

Description

At the scheduled time, we'll meet at LOVE Object and leave Tokyo behind to begin this day trip to Nikko . Are you ready to visit some of Japan's most beautiful temples and shrines ? Let's go!

Before arriving at our destination, we'll stop halfway for a rest. When making your reservation, you can choose between two  tour options: with or without lunch . If lunch is included, we'll serve you a traditional Japanese meal that will include traditional dishes such as steamed rice with chestnuts, yuba, sashimi, butterbur, & burdock.

After this lunch break, we'll continue our journey and arrive at our destination at approximately 12:00 pm. We'll enter the area known as Sannai and first visit the Toshogu Temple, a Shintoist construction where the tomb of the first shogun of the Tokugawa clan is located.

Also, we'll let you in on tons of fascinating fun facts about the temples of Nikko , with its distinctive decoration featuring animals such as monkeys, cats, and dragons . We'll continue to explore the natural beauty of the area, stopping at the Kegon waterfall , a majestic waterfall on Lake Chuzenji .

Lastly, on the way back to Tokyo we'll see Shinkyo Bridge  from the bus. Its iconic red color contrasts with the intense green of the vegetation.

Finally, we'll bring this trip to an end after 10.5 hours by returning to the meeting point in Tokyo.

Private day trip to Nikko

If you would like to go on this day trip with a guide just for you , we recommend checking out our private excursion to Nikko .

More Information

10 hours 30 minutes.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Transport by minibus

English–speaking guide

Entrance tickets

Lunch (depending on selection)

When to book?

You can book up until 10 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Not wheelchair accessible.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.
• Promotes local employment.
• Has a gender equality policy.

H.i.s. Co., Ltd. Show more

Corporate name: H.I.S. Co., Ltd.

Not permitted.

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities .

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?

A - This activity requires a minimum of 15 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

LOVE Object

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A Day Trip To Nikko From Tokyo | 10 Things Not To Miss

My first day trip to Nikko was 3 years ago. Since then it has become a favorite day trip from tokyo for me and a great way to escape the city. The combination of wonderful shrines, Nikko National Park and lovely food make it a truly special (and popular) place to visit.

Maybe you have an extended stay in Tokyo and are looking to break free from the city, or are just looking for some excellent shrines and temples to visit , Nikko is a great choice.

I have created this post to help you plan a great day trip to Nikko from Tokyo. It includes all the highlights of Nikko including food highlights, and of course all the information you might need on how to get to Nikko from Tokyo.

Let’s dive right in!

Coming your way in this post - click to expand ->

A UNESCO World Heritage Site – shrines and temples

The Shrines and Temples of Nikko are a UNESCO world heritage site and the main reason why so many tourists spend a day in Nikko. The Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Futurasan Jinja and the Rinnoji Temple and all buildings belonging to these three holy sites which are located closely together in central Nikko.

The founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, which ruled Japan for more than 250 years until 1868, Tokugawa Ieyasu and his grandson Iemitsu are both entombed in Nikko, and there is a lot you can learn about the Tokugawa period during your visit. But there is even older history to be found here in the form of Futarasan Jinja and Rinnoji.

You may also like:

• 10 Best Places To View Mt Fuji
• What To Do In Kawaguchiko
• What to do in Kamakura

What to do on a day trip to Nikko from Tokyo

• Tosho-Gu Shrine
• Futarasan-Jinja
• Shinkyo Bridge
• Lake Chuzenji
• Kegon Falls
• Visit a day onsen

1. Tosho-Gu Shrine

Naturally, you would start your Nikko day trip at the World Heritage site, Toshogu Shrine. Many elements make the shrine such a fantastic visit.

The first thing you will come across when entering are some wonderfully decorated storehouses, the most famous woodcuts depict the famous ‘see no evil, speak no evil and hear no evil’-monkeys. Another renowned woodcut located on the Sakashitamon is Nemurineko, the sleeping cat.

From the Sakashitamon a flight of stairs leads through the woods to the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Tokugawa Shogun. When he was laid to rest at Toshogu Shrine, it was still a very simple mausoleum but was enlarged to its current beauty by his grandson Tokugawa Iemitsu.

The 5-minute walk to the mausoleum through the thick Japanese forest is a stunning one. It contrasts so sharply with the high-rise buildings and modernity of Tokyo that it seems a little bit out of this world.

Unfortunately, because of the popularity, the shrine is almost always crowded and a visit early in the morning might be a good idea if you like to avoid the crows.

On another note, until the 2020s the complex is under renovation and at different times different buildings are covered up because of this work. But the main building’s repairs are already finished, and it won’t really influence your experience negatively.

• Name: Nikko Tosho-gu (日光東照宮)
• Opening hours: April to October 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.  November to March 8 p.m. – 5 p.m.
• Address: 321-1431 Tochigi-ken, Nikkō-shi, Sannai, 2301
• Google Maps

2. Futarasan-Jinja

Another must-see on a Nikko day trip is the Futarasan-jinja which is much older and more laid back (read: not so pompous) compared to its neighbor Tosho-gu. The shrine was founded more than 1200 years ago by the same Buddhist monk who also founded Rinnoji Temple.

Another excellent example of how Buddhism and Shintoism used to go hand in hand in Japan.

Futarasan-jinja is dedicated to the deities of Nikko’s three most famous mountains (Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro).

Futarasan is an alternative name for Mount Nantai the most important of the three mountains. Another two Futarasan Shrines are located close to Mount Nantai itself.

• Name: Nikko Futarasan-jinja (日光二荒山神社)
• Opening hours: always open
• Address: 321-1431 Tochigi-ken, Nikkō-shi, Sannai, 2307

3. Rinno-Ji

The most important Buddhist temple of Nikko is Rinno-ji. Like I mentioned before it was founded by the same monk who also founded Futarasan-jinja.

You might be asking yourself why a Buddhist monk would establish a Buddhist temple and a Shinto shrine, but the temple and shrine worship the same three holy spirits.

The deities of Nikko’s most important three mountains. From the Buddhist standpoint, these three deities are manifested as Amida, Senju-Kannon and Bato-Kannon whos statues are located in Rinno-ji.

• Name: Rinno-ji (日光山輪王寺宝物殿)
• Address: 321-1431 Tochigi-ken, Nikkō-shi, Sannai, 2300

4. TAIYU-IN

Similar in architecture and purpose to Tosho-gu is Taiyu-in, the final resting place of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu (who as you might remember is laid to rest at Tosho-gu).

With the forced separation of Buddhism and Shintoism in the Meiji Era, Taiyu-in became a sub-temple of nearby Rinno-ji Temple, whereas Tosho-gu became a pure Shinto Shrine).

But even today both contain elements of both Buddhism and Shintoism in their architecture. (Which you probably won’t really know if you aren’t an expert or aren’t told by a super helpful travel blogger, who just looked this information up on the internet for you).

• Name: Taiyu-in (日光山輪王寺大猷院)

5. Shinkyo Bridge

One of the three finest bridges in Japan, Shinkyo Bridge (神橋) which means holy bridge, marks the entrance to the Shrines and Temples of Nikko. It officially belongs to Futurasan-jinja. The current bridge was constructed in the 17th century and was recently renovated. For a small fee, you can even walk across.

So far, I have resisted the urge to pay to cross and just viewed the bridge while passing by. There are so many beautiful bridges you come across in Japan, many which are free for you to cross that I didn’t see the need to pay to cross a bridge that won’t lead you anywhere.

• Name: Shinkyo (谷や)
• Opening hours: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Address: 321-1401 Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko, Sannai

6. Eat Yuba

After all this walking around, exploring Japanese history and culture, you are probably getting hungry. Now is the time to have some delicious local food.

A day in Nikko is not complete without trying their famous local food, Yuba, made with tofu skin. This very thin white substance is skimmed from soy milk, very similar to the surface on cow milk when it is heated.

Yuba doesn’t really have much of a taste of its own, so it is all in the preparation.

Maruhide Shokudo

During our day trip to Nikko, our research led us to Maruhide Shokudo not far from Tobu Nikko Station. It was a very simple no-frills restaurant with a small menu. The food was good and cheap and, of course, there was Yuba on the menu. It wasn’t the best food I had ever had, but it was all right.

• Name: Maruhide Shokudo (ダイニングカフェ 湯波こまち 東武日光駅前店)
• Opening hours: 11:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Address: 321-1406 Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko, Matsubaracho, 255

Because I wasn’t too happy with my food at Maruhide Shokudo, I did some more research on delicious Yuba restaurants for this post, which leads me to believe that there would have been better options to enjoy some Yuba in Nikko.

One of the restaurants that came up in my search is Sun Field. A charming looking restaurant with a variety of Yuba on the menu that you can try on your lunch menu. (They also offer delicious looking dinner)

• Name: Sun Field (谷や)
• Opening hours: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
• Address: Nihonbashi Ningyocho 2-15-17, Cuoku, Tokyo 103-0013

7. Lake Chuzenji

After exploring central Nikko, it is time to head to Oku-Nikko another part of the area that should be on your day trip to Nikko itinerary. On a height of 1269 meters above sea level lies the beautiful lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖) at the foot of Mt Nantai in Nikko National Park.

Chuzenjiko is an excellent place for a visit because of the little Onsen town at its eastern shore and also the beautiful nature surrounding the lake. If you have the time, you can take a small paddleboat out on the lake or just enjoy the view during a walk along the shore.

If you have a lot of time, you can even hike around the whole lake on a 25-kilometer long hiking trail through nature.

8. Kegon Falls

The most famous waterfall in Nikko National Park is the almost 100-meter tall Kegon Waterfall (華厳の滝) which is also located in Chuzenjiko Onsen. The impressive waterfall is the only outlet of Chuzenji Lake and can be viewed from two viewing platforms. A free one and a paid one (which has the better view).

Kegon falls as well as Lake Chuzenji, are favorite spots in October during the fall season when the leaves turn their colors.

• Name: Kegon Falls (華厳の滝)
• Opening hours: March to November 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. & December to February 9:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Address: Chugushi, Nikko, 321-1661

9. Irohazaka

The area around Lake Chuzenji is located more than thousand meters above sea level. To reach the lake the scenic route is to take Irohazaka.

This winding road up the mountainside is extraordinarily beautiful during the fall season when the autumn leaves turn color, but also in May when we drove up it was beautiful in lush green colors.

We even saw a deer at the roadside. So be careful when you make your way up the mountain. But don’t forget to enjoy the view.

10. Visit a day onsen

Many people visit Nikko not only because of the cultural highlights and beautiful nature but also because of the famous Onsen, Japanese hot springs, that can be found in the area.

All around Nikko are many Onsen towns located, and even if you are not planning on spending the night in Nikko, you can enjoy the healing properties of Nikko’s Onsen.

There are multiple Onsen that open their doors to day visitors for a small fee , they usually also rent towels, so you don’t have to carry around a towel all day.

If it is your first visit to an Onsen in Japan make sure to read up on Japanese Onsen Etiquette  before you go. There are many things to know, and if you don’t want to make a fool of yourself it is best to read about them once.

On my first visit, I was quite clueless, and even though I tried to mimic the locals I still did a lot of things wrong.

How to get to Nikko from Tokyo

Getting to from Tokyo to Nikko is really easy. You have so many different options, so choose one that fits your needs and enjoy your day trip to Nikko.

Note: the links in this section are affiliate links. this means if you book something after following one, I make a little commission at no cost to yourself. For more information on this you can check out my affiliate disclosure page.

There are about three different trains connecting Tokyo and Nikko and they are all a viable option for your Nikko day trip.

If you are a  J Rail Pass  holder the cheapest and fastest way is to take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station and there transfer to JR Nikko Line. Depending on the time it takes to transfer in Utsunomiya this is the fastest option at around 100 minutes.

Another option, this one is only partly covered by the Japan Rail Pass is an express train from Shinjuku Station to Tobu Nikko Station. A one-way trip costs 4000 Yen and will take about 2 hours.

The cheapest option if you don’t have a Rail Pass is the use of the Tobu Line that connects Asakusa Station in Tokyo with Tobu Nikko Station.

The limited express is more expensive at 2800 Yen. The normal trains are cheaper at 1360 Yen, but takes half an hour longer around 2 and a half hours.

Having a car is the most flexible way to explore get from Tokyo to Nikko and explore the area. For a day trip from Tokyo, you can rent a car in Tokyo and drive up to Nikko in 2 hours.

A one-day car rental in Japan will cost you roughly 16000 Yen calculating in gas money any toll roads.

This might be a cheaper option for a Nikko day trip if you are traveling as a couple, family or any other group and you don’t have a Japan Rail Pass.

But if you are traveling alone, using public transport might come cheaper, and especially if you own a J Rail Pass I recommend you go by train.

There is ample parking space close to the shrines and temples, which are the main attraction of Nikko. Getting to Okunikko where Chuzenji Lake and Kegon Waterfall are located is also easiest by car. From Nikko, you will get to enjoy the Irohazaka.

There are multiple day tours to Nikko from Tokyo, all with a slightly different program but they in general cover the highlights of Nikko very well. I had a look at  Get your Guide  and also  KLOOK , and these are the day tours to Nikko that I would recommend for your Nikko day trip:

Final Thoughts on a day trip to Nikko

There is much more to experience in a trip to Nikko than you can squeeze into a full day trip. If you are in Japan and have a relaxed itinerary, I would really recommend that you spend a night at a lovely Ryokan in one of the Onsen towns of Nikko. However, sadly this isn’t always possible.

Even if you do just have one day, you can still see plenty and really enjoy a trip to Nikko. As mentioned above, having a car is the best way to see as much as possible on a day trip to Nikko, so I would certainly recommend investigating this option, alternatively, a tour could be a good choice if you are tight on time and want to see the highlights.

Either way, I’m sure that you will not regret a Nikko day trip, it is a journey to one of Japan’s many gems that are waiting to be discovered.

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An unforgettable Nikko Day Trip from Tokyo

By Author Toni Broome

Posted on Published: August 8, 2022  - Last updated: March 20, 2023

The historic shrines and temples of Nikko in Tochigi prefecture are an easy 2-hour train ride from Tokyo making a Nikko day trip an ideal way to experience the history and natural beauty of the region.  The history of the sacred UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 8th century and its setting within the densely forested mountains makes it a welcome respite from the city.

While the concentration of shrines and temples is the most widely known attraction in the area there is so much more to see and do in Nikko if you can extend your stay a little longer.  We’ve covered many of the other options for the wider region together with where to eat, play and stay in our full Nikko guide article.

The World Heritage site itself is massive and the focus of a Nikko day trip itinerary. It’s made up of over 100 different structures that are all listed as either National Treasures or important cultural properties. When you stop to consider the size and scale of that you really do need a full day in this part of Nikko. 

Table of Contents

Getting to the Nikko World Heritage area

Shinkyo bridge, nikko rinno-ji temple, nikko toshogu shrine, the 5-story pagoda toshogu gojunoto, nikko futarasan shrine, kanmanguifuchi abyss.

Nikko is on our list of great day trips from Tokyo , it’s perfect for first time visitors. You can get here by train from the city in under 2 hours and the main attractions are a relatively easy 2 km walk from the station or you can take the short bus ride up to the World Heritage area.

Personally I recommend the bus as there is a lot of climbing up and down mountain paths around the shrines and temples during the day if you want to see it all or even the highlights.

There are 2 different train companies that run up to Nikko from Tokyo, Japan Rail (JR) and Tobu. If you have an active JR pass you can definitely use it and travel by Japan Rail, otherwise I prefer Tobu. It’s simpler with no connection required between Tokyo and Nikko, it usually works out a little faster, and the station in Nikko is slightly close to the attractions.

Nikko day trip using Tobu trains

Asakusa in Tokyo is the hub for Tobu Railways, they have their own station here that is easy to locate from the subway station if you are coming in from another part of Tokyo and there are a number of shops between the stations with a great 7-Eleven almost opposite that has an incredible selection of onigiri and other baked goods and snacks for breakfast on the train if you are headed off early.

The direct train is the Tobu Limited Express, Kegon and it takes 1 hour and 50 minutes from Asakusa at a cost of Y2860 or Y5720. These trains are really comfortable seating, the configuration has 2 seats on either side of the aisle, luggage racks overhead, foot rest, fold down table, drink bottle holder and magazine pocket.

You can save even more by using the Nikko Pass World Heritage Area which includes the train from Asakusa to Nikko and the bus from the station around the Nikko Temples and Shrines World Heritage area. If you are buying the pass for this day trip you will want the World Heritage not All Areas version, it’s quite a bit cheaper as you aren’t paying to get out to the outer areas of Nikko that require a multi day trip like the waterfalls, lakes, onsen and national park.

Travelling by JR train to Nikko

The fastest JR option takes the shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Utsunomiya station in Tochigi prefecture then switch to the local JR Nikko line for the remainder of the trip. From Tokyo station it should take just on 2 hours including switching trains and will cost Y5880 one way or Y11760 return. That’s 10 minutes longer, a bit more fuss changing platforms and trains, and twice the price of Tobu so we’d only choose this option if we had an active JR pass we wanted to make use of.

If you are unsure what the JR Pass is, or whether you should get one, I have an article that covers whether a Japan Rail pass is worth it, including how to use it and how to work out for your own trip whether to invest or not. Read this before you buy one, they can be amazing, we’ve purchased them many times but NOT every time and too often now I’ve heard of travel agents selling a pass to first time visitors when they just aren’t good value for their itinerary.

The Shinkyo Bridge is the first iconic sight from the area you will likely see as you make your way up from the station to the famous shrines and temples of Nikko. You will pass it whether you walk up from the station or take the bus.

This bridge has been a crossing to the temples and shrines beyond since 1636 but it replaced a crossing at the site that dates back even beyond that. It’s quite a sight in all seasons but in the early summer when it is surrounded in lush greenery, the turquoise water below still icy cold, it is particularly striking.

While you can walk across the heritage bridge for a small fee and perhaps feel what it was like to walk in the footsteps of feudal lords and samurai hundreds of years before, it is better viewed from the traffic and foot bridge that runs parallel to it just 50 metres further down the river.

If you have the Tobu Pass or an all day bus ticket the Shinkyo bridge stop is an easy one to find when you are ready to head back to the station or continue further on. It is conveniently located close to the temples and shrines on one side and some interesting shops and lunch spots just slightly further down the street on the other.

The shrines and temples of Nikko

These are by no means all the shrines and temples in Nikko, what it refers to is the UNESCO World Heritage listing for the site including the important historical assets within a confined geographical area, for simplicity referred to as the Nikko World Heritage site or the Shrines and Temples of Nikko.

We first visited Nikko independently during spring in 2010 and loved the natural beauty, history and serenity.  I’ve been back a couple of times over the years and the photos you’ll see here are from different trips, if you picked up on a seasonal difference from the remnants of snow to lush green summer foliage, that’s the reason.

Tickets are required to enter each of the temple areas and are not covered within the Tobu passes, the fees individually are small but it can be a bit confusing as there are some combinations available if you know where you will be going that are slightly cheaper than buying seperate tickets. There does not appear to be a single ticket for all the temples, shrines and mausoleums.

You will usually start to explore the area from Rinnoji Temple, this is the one closest to the bridge if you are walking and the first stop within the temples area if you are coming in on the bus. Perhaps you should also start here as it is the foundation of all the temples in the area being founded by Shodo Shonin, the Buddhist monk who introduced Buddhism to Nikko in the 8th century.

The main hall at Rinnoji is the Sanbutsudo Hall, these hoardings around the building were a familiar site with a renovation on the hall taking the best part of a decade to complete but they were finished in July 2019.

The hall houses a set of three large wooden statues lacquered in gold, one of Amida Buddha (Amitābha), Senju-Kannon who is depicted with 1000 arms and Bato-Kannon who is depicted with a horse head. Kannon in Tibetan Buddhism is Avalokiteshvara, Goddess of mercy. Here the 3 deities together are regarded as Buddhist manifestations of Nikko’s three mountain gods enshrined at Futarasan Shrine.

Other important aspects of Rinnoji are the treasure house and Shoyoen garden which are visited together under a separate entry ticket to the rest of the temple (Y300) or combined with the main hall entry. We’ve been through the garden in spring but it is best known for autumn leaves viewing in early November.

Toshogu Shrine is the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled over Japan for 250 years until the Meiji Restoration in 1868 when power was returned to the Emperor. Ieyasu was entombed at Toshogu in 1617 but the complex was significantly enlarged and enhanced by his Grandson, Iemitsu, in the early 17th century.

The elaborate decoration seen here is unusual in Japan and as Buddhism and Shinto weren’t separated until the Meiji Restoration you will see elements of both throughout the complex. For historical interest, the sheer scale, natural beauty and design this is one you will want to allocate a fair amount of time to. There are many individual areas as you progress through the shine grounds and wind your way up through the hillside forest.

The highly ornate and immaculately maintained pagoda that stands here today was built in 1818 by Sakai Tadayuki and is now listed as an important cultural property. The original pagoda was built to enshrine Tokugawa Ieyasu , the first Tokugawa shogun and was dedicated in 1648, it stood here until destroyed by fire in 1815.

Like the rest of the Toshogu Shrine, it is far more ornate than typically seen in pagodas and temple buildings across Japan. The only other place I’ve seen a similar level of intricate detail and colour, on a much smaller scale, is at Yakuo-in on Mt Takao where some of the temple buildings behind the main hall have similarities. Takao is another great day trip if you like to spend some time in nature not too far from the city.

Make your way to Futarasan Jinja (shrine) along the cedar corridor that starts near the 5-story pagoda at Toshogu. You will feel dwarfed by the enormous and majestic cedars that tower above you as you walk through to the shrine and Taiyuin beyond that.

This is a much older complex than Toshogu, it was founded in 782 by Shodo Shonin, the same Buddhist monk that founded Rinnoji Temple. Entry is free to most of the shrine grounds and the Shinkyo Bridge seen on the way up to the temples and about a 1-kilometre walk away also belongs to this shrine.

Futarasan is another name for Mt Nantai a volcanic peak in the Nikko National Park, the shrine is dedicated to the deities of three important mountains in the area, Mt Nantai, Mount Nyoho and Mount Taro.

Taiyuin is the mausoleum of Tokugawa Iemitsu, grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. You might be tempted to skip it if you are tired after a day on your feet or ready for lunch but don’t, while it is true that in proper respect for Ieyasu it was constructed to be more modest it is still an incredible site housing 22 registered National Treasures, a lavishly ornate prayer hall and exceptional craftsmanship.

You can buy the ticket individually for this one or it can be purchased as a combined ticket with Sanbutsudo at Rinno-Ji.

If you have heard of Kanmanguifuchi Abyss it was probably alongside a photo similar to the one I have taken below. These Jizo statues represent the guardian deity of children and travellers but they are tricky too, count them as you go in and as you go back out, everyone comes up with a different number.

The Abyss or gully has a river running to the right of the path in this photo and hills rising up on both sides making it damp and cool, the perfect environment for moss growing on the many stone statues, steps and retaining walls.

The river itself isn’t wide but is turbulent in parts as it winds through the bottom of the gorge. The sounds of the rushing water combined with the bird song and cicadas in summer are very soothing. We passed a monk from the temple but no one else on the path when we visited adding to the appeal of the spot.

A Nikko day trip is a fantastic inclusion on an itinerary and quite easy to do from a base in Tokyo but the less visited mountainous area of Okunikko is worth extending for a night or two if you can. This will give you time to get out to attractions such as Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, Edo Wonderland or Kinugawa onsen. You’ll find more about the attractions, how to get around and where to stay in the wider area in our comprehensive Nikko visitors guide .

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Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, nikko travel guide: a quick getaway from tokyo.

Nikko is a popular short-trip destination from Tokyo , loved by locals and tourists alike. Nikko is well-known for its natural beauty (waterfalls, hikes, and onsen) as well as its UNESCO heritage temples.

Located only 125km north of Tokyo, you can enjoy this area as a day trip or as a short 2-day trip, though some visitors opt to spend as much as 4 days and explore the outer Nikko region.

I wasn’t expecting much from Nikko at first. But by the end of my trip, I was quite impressed by how historic this place really is! It has a similar vibe to Hakone but with way less crowd.

How to get to Nikko from Tokyo

There are a few ways to reach Nikko from Tokyo:

By train (Tobu Railway with Nikko Pass ) – Train is the cheapest way to get to Nikko if you choose to purchase Nikko Pass. You can take the Tobu Railway from Asakusa station, which is included in the price of the Nikko Pass (excluding the limited express train). Tobu Railway is not covered by JR Pass, so you still need to get this separately even if you have JR Pass. Niko Pass also covers the local transportation once you get to Nikko. There are two types of Nikko passes:

• Nikko World Heritage Pass (valid for 2 days) – get this if you are planning to stay in Nikko central area only
• Nikko Pass All-Area (valid for 4 days) – more expensive than the 2-day pass, but this pass covers unlimited bus rides in Nikko Central and Okunikko.

By Shinkansen (High-speed train) – If you already have the JR Pass – From Tokyo, take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen line and then switch to JR Nikko Line to Nikko Station. Then to get around Nikko, you can buy the Tobu bus pass separately or pay per ride. Take note due to the high price of a JR Pass, this option ONLY makes sense if you already have a JR pass (which you can purchase before your trip). I don’t recommend getting a JR Pass just for Nikko, since the Tobu Line option above is much cheaper. Read more about JR Pass in my Tokyo Guide here .

Rent a car and drive from Tokyo – If you have an international driver’s license and are comfortable with driving in a foreign country, this is the most convenient and easy option since you won’t have to be dependent on public transport when you get to Nikko. This is the option that I personally went with since I did not want to waste time with public transport. Book a car rental from Tokyo here, which you can pick up from the airport or in the city:

• Car Rental Pick up from Narita Airport
• Car Rental Pick up from Haneda Airport
• Car Rental Pick up in Tokyo

Getting around Nikko with public transportation

Once you get to Nikko, Tobu offers an extensive range of shuttle buses that covers different areas of Nikko. If you have purchased a Nikko Pass , then you don’t need to worry about the bus pass as those have already been included with Nikko Pass.

However, if you didn’t buy the Nikko Pass, then you can purchase the Tobu bus pass separately or pay per ride. HINT: it’s almost always better to buy the Nikko pass! The price for the Tobu bus pass varies depending on the areas you want to visit, ranging from 500 yen (Nikko Central only), 2000 yen (covers up to Lake Chuzenji), and 3000 yen (covers up to Yumoto).

If you are planning to follow my blog to the T, then you’ll need the 3000 yen pass since I went up all the way to Yumoto.

Recommended 2-day Nikko Itinerary

Alright! Now that you know how to get around, it’s time to look at what to do around Nikko. As Nikko actually covers quite a large area, I recommend dividing up your days as follows:

• Day 1: Central Nikko (Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko National Park). As soon as you get off the train station, explore Nikko Central. This will take a good half day, perfect to do in the afternoon if you’re driving/taking the train to Nikko in the morning. You’ll get to see all of the temples that earned Nikko its claim to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
• Day 2: Okunikko (Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, Ryuzu Falls, Yumoto). This will definitely take at least a full day, as the area you’ll be covering today is massive. you’ll get to see the nature part of Nikko, and they are beautiful! There also tend to be fewer visitors around this area, especially once you go past Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.

How many days should I spend in Nikko?

As you can see from the itinerary above, Nikko is totally doable as a 2 days 1-night trip, which is what we did. However, keep in mind that we were driving so we didn’t have to account for time spent on public transport.

If you aren’t driving and want to see only the Nikko Central area, then 1-2 days is enough. But if you want to explore Okunikko then I recommend 3-4 days. I guess this is why they have a Nikko pass that will last 2 and 4 days!

When is a good time to go to Nikko?

Nikko is good to visit all year round, although August has the highest chance of rain. The best time to visit Nikko, like any other mountainous region in Japan, is during the Sakura season in Spring or during the Autumn Foliage season in Fall. It would be extra beautiful during these seasons!

I personally went in mid-May and found it to be a very comfortable visit. It wasn’t too cold or hot, and I was even still able to catch glimpses of Sakura flowers as they bloom a bit later due to the colder climate in the mountains.

What to do and see in Nikko

Now that you know everything about traveling to and around Nikko, let’s take a look what you can do there:

1. Shinkyo Bridge

This red bridge is hard to miss, as it is located between Nikko Central Town and the entrance to Nikko National Park. The name “Shinkyo” means sacred, and this bridge dates back to 1636. It is one of Japan’s three finest bridges – so it’s definitely worth a look.

But you can’t really go on the bridge without paying a fee of 300 yen. Personally, I don’t think it’s worth going on the bridge itself. I think it’s better to just admire from afar – take a photo of it and learn about its history, then move on to the temples.

2. Nikko National Park (Temples and Shrines)

Nikko National Park is undoubtedly the reason why many visitors ended up in Nikko. This is where all the shrines and temples are located, and yup! These are the temples that earned Nikko its claim to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

Expect some crowd and plan to set aside 3-4 hours here. Wear comfortable shoes – not only because there is a lot to see, but the park itself is also a huge area to cover with a lot of stairs, so you’ll be on your feet a lot!

Also an important point: The entrance fee to these shrines is quite expensive and adds up quickly if you want to see everything, so make sure you budget ahead for it. Unfortunately, there are no passes that can help you save money for this :/ not even the Nikko Pass. Tickets can be bought individually at the entrance of each temple/shrine, and you can use your SUICA card to buy them if you don’t want to use cash.

The shrines in Nikko are divided into three areas:

• Toshogu Shrine – a large and beautiful shrine with gold detail that serves as the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of the unifiers of Japan (2100 yen entrance fee for shrine and museum, or 1300 yen just for the shrine).
• Futarasan Shrine – dedicated to the deities of Nikko’s three most sacred mountains: Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro (200 yen entrance fee)
• Rinno-ji Temple – although it looks plain compared to Toshogu, Rinnoji is actually the most important temple in Nikko. It comprises the main shrine called Sanbutsudo, which houses three golden Buddha statues, and Taiyuinbyo, the mausoleum of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the last direct descendant of Tokugawa Ieyasu (300-900 yen entrance fee, depending on what you want to see. I recommend at least seeing Sanbutsudo)

While there are many wood carvings throughout the shrine, the two that are worth noting at the Toshogu shrine are the carvings of the Three Wise Monkeys and The Sleeping Cat . These two are the most famous carvings, but they are quite small so you might miss them if you don’t keep your eyes peeled! The monkeys are very close to the entrance, while the sleeping cat is inside just before the stairs that take you up to the mausoleum.

Personally, I was much more amused by this wood carving of an elephant called Sozonozo Elephant (meaning “Imagined elephant”). If you look closely… the elephant carving is a little weirdly proportioned and has textures that resemble… yes, fur. This is because at the time this carving was created, the artist had never seen an elephant in person – elephants are not native to Japan, so s/he had to rely on other people’s verbal or written descriptions of one.

While you are walking around the temples and shrines, keep an eye out for omamori (good luck charms) too! They usually are 100-300 yen. You can’t choose which charm you get (unless you pay more to buy specific ones), but whichever charm you end up getting brings you different types of luck and you can keep it inside your wallet.

It’s clear that the most popular shring in Nikko is the Toshogu shrine, while Rinno-ji and Futarasan are a lot more calm and quiet. Even though I went during a popular time, I found very few people at Rinno-ji and Futarasan.

3. Tobu World Square

If you still have some time for the day after visiting the national park and looking for things to do, then you can make your way to Tobu World Square, a quirky Japanese theme park where you can go around the world in just a few hours.

If you’ve purchased Nikko Pass , you can enjoy a 1000 yen discount on the ticket entrance to Tobu World Square.

4. Akechidaira Ropeway

Once you get out of Nikko central area towards Okunikko, you’ll start going up the mountain via one of the most zig-zaggy roads on a slope called Irohazaka . This was one of the most memorable drives for me! The zig-zags are so sharp, that you can even spot this area from google maps from its unique shape.

Once you get past Irohazaka, you’ll see Akechidaira Ropeway .

This ropeway is included with the Nikko All-Area Pass . Otherwise, it’s 400 yen per one-way ride or 730 yen per round trip.

5. Kegon Falls

Once you get to Okunikko, you’ll see road signs prominently marked for Kegon Falls . It’s no wonder because Kegon Falls is one of the most famous natural beauties to see in Nikko.

The waterfall is indeed majestic and beautiful, but I find Kegon Falls to be extremely touristy and not for those who are looking for hiking or to be closer to nature. To see the falls, you’re required to take an elevator down, which costs 550 yen per person. From the elevator, you can then go to a viewing platform where you can admire Kegon Falls from afar.

6. Lake Chuzenji

For many visitors, Lake Chuzenji is one of the main attractions of Nikko. It is, after all, a very interesting lake located at the foot of Mount Nantai, a sacred volcano of Nikko. It is believed Lake Chuzenji formed 20,000 years ago due to the eruption of Mount Nantai.

While at Lake Chuzenji, you can hire a canoe and paddle around the lake, or you can hike the circumference of the lake (25km distance, so it will take you a couple of hours)

Tip: If you’ve purchased the Nikko All-Area Pass , a cruise on Lake Chuzenji is included so definitely utilize that!

7. Ryuzu Falls

Kegon Falls was beautiful and majestic, but personally, I enjoyed Ryuzu Falls more. It’s a smaller waterfall compared to Kegon, but not only were there fewer people, it’s also free to view.

I recommend stopping here for lunch as there’s also a cozy little restaurant right by the waterfall. In fact, it’s probably the best way to enjoy the waterfall. You can get a seat facing the water while enjoying some delicious Japanese food. I recommend the Yuba soba here!

If you are interested in doing a hiking trail, then you can consider the Senjogahara Trail, which starts from Ryuzu Falls.

8. Senjogahara Marshland Hiking Trails

Senjogaharara trails are definitely the most popular trails in Nikko. It’s a pretty easy walk along the marshland (there are wooden boardwalks) but it might still take 6-8 hours depending on the trail you chose.

I recommend going to a visitor center first to get an idea of where the trails are located and which ones you want to do. They’ll have a map with estimated walking time in minutes, which I found very useful as opposed to quoting just the distance.

And as I’ve said before, you can start the trail from Ryuzu Falls but there are a few other entry points too, so you can customize how long or short you want your hike to be.

9. Yumoto Onsen Town

If you’re an onsen (Japanese hot spring bath) enthusiast, this is definitely a must-visit. Yumoto is a VERY small and quiet resort town – the entire town can be walked in 20 minutes and we were pretty much the only ones walking around when we were there! The name “Yumoto” literally means “origin of hot water”, a fitting name for this town mostly made up of Ryokan hot springs.

In Yumoto, you can visit Onsenji (a small Buddhist shrine at the source of Nikko’s onsen water), Yunodaira Marsh, walk around the nearby Lake Yunoko, and enjoy a dip in a real sulfuric hot spring water at one of the Ryokans nearby.

Yunodaira Marsh is the source of Nikko’s onsen water located at the edge of the town. It was first discovered by Priest Shodo-Shonin in the 8th century. Once nearby, you can see (and smell) the sulfuric hot water up close.

Lake Yunoko can be circled in about 1 hour of leisure walking on foot. I highly recommend this since it’s a really easy walk, and very quiet too! You might see some fishermen in the lake.

If you decide to walk around Lake Yunoko , keep your eyes open for the cute, pink-faced Japanese macaque! They can be seen hanging around the trees, personally, we saw a few of them as we were leaving the lake.

If you are interested in dipping into an onsen, you can go to Onsenji – the shrine has a small, zero amenities onsen. But if you need a towel and soap, then it’s best to go to a ryokan.

The ryokan we personally went to is Okunikko Yamamizuki which offers a private onsen room so you don’t have to share with others if you don’t want to be naked in front of strangers (see my Guide to Onsen ). Even though this Ryokan is a hotel, you don’t have to stay here to enjoy the onsen.

If I remember correctly, we paid 3000-4000 yen for an hour of private onsen room, and it was so totally worth it! The water in this ryokan comes directly from the hot sulfuric water you see at Yunodaira Marsh. Sulfuric water gives multiple health benefits and is especially good for your skin.

See my Guide to Onsen section for more information on how to book a private onsen!

What to eat in Nikko

I was being a horrible food blogger… I didn’t research the food portion properly when we were going to Nikko. In my defense though, I was more focused on the sights to see in Nikko of which there are plenty. But fret not, I did enjoy some local delicacies while I was there:

You definitely can’t miss Yuba while you’re in Nikko, it’s practically everywhere. If you love tofu or soybean, specifically soybean curd, you’ll love Yuba. Tofu is one of my favorite food so I immediately fell in love with Yuba, a rolled-up soybean curd!

If you’ve had hot pot before, Yuba is very similar to the tofu skin, except it’s served rolled up, and really, part of the fun in eating it (at least for me!) is to unroll them slowly. I think Yuba is a bit softer than the Chinese tofu skin though.

Taiyaki is one of my favorite snacks from Japan. It’s a fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste or custard cream. It’s a comforting snack especially if the weather is a bit chilly.

Taiyaki isn’t really a Nikko-specific food but I find them increasingly hard to find in other areas like Tokyo unless you go to a matsuri (festival). But in Nikko National Park, you can find Taiyaki still made traditionally! This Taiyaki truck is just down the street from the entrance of Futarasan, hidden behind a restaurant.

3. Cream Soda

Personally, I’m not a huge fan of Cream Soda but I thought this was an interesting insight into Japanese culture, which tend to adopt western cuisine and give it a Japanese twist of its own. In Japan, cream soda often refers to melon-flavored soda with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! Yes, it’s basically a Japanese ice cream float.

Where to stay in Nikko

If you are taking the train, you’d want to stay somewhere near the station. I highly recommend staying at a Ryokan to experience authentic Japanese hospitality!

Ryokan is a small traditional Japanese inn with an on-site onsen. The only downside is that Ryokans tend to be expensive, so I recommend only staying for one night and moving on to another hotel after.

Here are some ryokans in Nikko:

• Nikko Tokinoyuu (in Niko Central)
• Okunoinn Hotel Tokugawa
• Annex Turtle Hotori-An
• Kagoiwa Onsen Ryokan (a bit further away, but very nice ryokan)

If you don’t want to stay at a ryokan, there are plenty of resort hotels in Nikko too.

As for us, we stayed at Hotel Kinugawa Sunshine , an older hotel (probably built in the 80s) located about a 15-minute drive from Nikko Central. This isn’t a Ryokan, but it does have a bath area and private onsen room that you can book for an additional price.

Although it is old, the hotel is well-maintained and the rooms are spacious. It’s also located in a more remote and tranquil area, so definitely, this will be a relaxing place for a getaway!

It has similar amenities as a ryokan – a Tatami room (rice-straw mat floor) with your own Yukata (a light gown normally worn in summer / hot weather), which you can wear to the bath area and around the hotel during your stay.

When you get into your hotel, you might be wondering… where the heck is the bed? Well, they will magically appear at night as part of the “turn down” service. Our living room originally looked like the photo above… but when we were done taking a bath in the onsen, they rolled out the futon for us!

Guide to Japanese Onsen

Onsen, aka Japanese hot spring, is one of the most cherished cultures in Japan. You go to a dedicated area to bathe in this hot spring which will make you feel rejuvenated and can cure certain skin conditions.

However, as with anything in Japan, it does come with its own etiquette! For a more in-depth guide on how to visit and experience Onsen, please read my Guide to Onsen .

Kaiseki – a Traditional Multi-course Japanese Dinner

When you stay in a ryokan, it is also a custom to have a Kaiseki – a multi-course traditional Japanese dinner. You can also book this meal at an additional price. It does tend to be pricy, but you’ll get an amazing elaborate meal with a taste of the famous Japanese hospitality. I think it’s totally worth the price!

ALL RIGHT! That was a super long post on Nikko. If you have any questions, PLEASE feel free to leave a comment below and I’ll reply as soon as possible.

If you are interested in a guide to Tokyo, please check out my Tokyo Itinerary and Travel guide post too !

21 Comments

• April 10, 2024

Thanks for so many great articles! I am going to Japan in June and am wondering whether it is worth going to Hakone, Fuji Fives Lakes, Kamkura and Nikko in the rainy weather that June is known for. Any reccommodations instead or thoughts on which places are whether depending dependent or not?

Hey Ashoka, yes it does tend to be rainy in June but a visit to Nikko can be a cool respite from the summer heat and humidity. I would still recommend Nikko or Hakone. Fuji Five Lakes not so much since a lot of the activities are centered around seeing Mount Fuji, which probably will be hidden under the clouds anyway.

• January 24, 2024

Hi Melissa, How much is the toll from Tokyo to Nikko? Your posts are so informative, thank you!

• January 25, 2024

Hi Luigi, I don’t recall exactly, but I think it was about 5,000-6,000 yen each way!

• October 30, 2023

Hello, What a great post thank you! I also read your article on Hakone. I was wondering if you know whether it be in Nikko or Hakone if there are any nice mixed gendered onsens (preferably with views of the mountains or forest, or nature in general) that allow very small covered tattoos?

Thank you for your advice again 🙂 Thea

I have a tattoo on my back (small one tho) and I had no problems entering the Onsen in Hakone and Nikko. Worst case, they’ll just ask you to cover it with skin-colored plaster. Regardless mixed gender, it will be hard to find, so I think your best bet is renting a Kashikiri (private onsen room). Yamamizuki Hotel in Nikko and Hakone Yuryo has a private room and we went there, but doesnt have much view. If you want one with Mount Fuji view I suggest going to Lake Kawaguchi. Almost all of the onsens there have a great view of Mount Fuji. I have a post with more details on going to an onsen here: https://girleatworld.net/onsen-guide/ and a post on Lake Kawaguchi here: https://girleatworld.net/fuji-five-lakes-guide-itinerary/

• September 16, 2023

Hi Melissa, wow what a detailed itinerary, thank you so very much. May I ask how you got around Nikko, like going to the lakes? are they accessible by bus as well?

Yes most of the attractions are accessible by bus. For me, we had rented a car.

• August 18, 2023

Hi Melissa! Thanks so much for your informative and interesting post! I actually came across it researching Nikko 😉 If you might have any info, I’d greatly appreciate any information for my concerns below:

There will be 3 adults and one 9yr old doing Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, overnight then Central Nikko the next day. I guess we have to do the 4 day pass. In addition, I hoped to get a res on the new Spacia X, (if I can get a res) and which I assume will NOT be covered on the pass. Otherwise it will be the Shinkansen. I was thinking to go from Asakusa to Nikko, then I”m “assuming” a bus at Nikko station to Kegon Falls. Then get to Lake Chuzenji by bus? I thought it best to initially travel the furthest so I booked a Pension which is supposed to be located about 3 min from the bus near the Lake. Then the 2nd day for Central Nikko and return back to Asakusa station near day’s end. Any thoughts you might have will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

• August 19, 2023

Hey Deanna, I am not sure about Spacia X since I am not familiar with it, but I see that it is the limited express train which is not included with Nikko Pass. You are correct that you would need to resume by bus from Nikko station to Kegon Falls, and then to Lake Chuzenji by bus as well. Your plan seems good to me!

• July 24, 2023

Liked your itinerary for Nikko and plan to go in October. Two day stay would be our preference. My only concern is that I plan to come from Tokyo and head eventually to Kanazawa. I know train is not an option for this part of the trip. Can you give me some idea where i can stop in between by bus? Everyone states you have to go back to Tokyo for connections. is this true?

Hey Gary, i’m not familiar with the route going to Kanazawa from Nikko. But it could be true that you need to go back to Tokyo first given that area is mountaineous and maybe not passable by train or bus.

• February 12, 2023

Hi Melissa,

We are heading to Japan in April and was thinking of travelling by car from Tokyo to Nikko (family of 5). Would you able to provide an estimate of how much the tolls cost?

Thanks, Tina

• November 30, 2022

I am planning to visit Nikko in May and your post already helped a lot in the planning!

A question: I was planning to go to Nikko in the early mornings, visit the National park up to Lake Yunoko, having a relax time in the onsen than take the bus to Nikko and the train back to Tokyo. Unfortunately I will have time really just for a day-trip. Do you think is it doable like this?

Hey Matyas, yes if you go early enough in the morning, I think it’s very doable. Just make sure to check the last timings for the bus and train back to Tokyo (as well as any local trains you need to take once you’re back in Tokyo) so that you won’t be stuck!

• September 30, 2022

Excellent. I’m sold on Nikko thanks to you.

• November 15, 2019

Hello! Thanx for sharing this itinerary; super useful! Just wanted to find out for the Senjogahara Marshland portion, which trail did you do and how long did it take for you to walk it?

• November 17, 2019

Hi lagoon, I ended up not doing the trail since I didn’t have time. I did walked the perimeter of Lake Yunoko though. If you want to do the trail, you can consider starting from Ryuzu Fall – they have maps with estimated walking time.

• October 20, 2019

We’re headed to Japan for our second visit in late December/early January. We found your Tokyo/Osaka/Kyoto itineraries to be awesome (and left a comment on the first time in Tokyo one earlier this year). We’re debating Nikko versus Nagano for a 2-3 day trip from Tokyo on this upcoming visit and were wondering which you would recommend. (We checked out your Instagram story on Nagano and obviously read the post above.) Also, we are not planning to rent a car, in case that makes a difference.

Hey Kathleen, great to see you again 😀 for 2-3 days I would recommend Nikko. The area is great for that. Nagano has more variety (btw I visited Nagano prefecture, not the city), but the places are more spread apart and further away from Tokyo, so it will take more time and money to visit (you’ll have to account into the train fares between each cities).

• October 21, 2019

Thanks, Melissa! We’ve booked a place in Nikko and are looking forward to it!

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Day tour to Nikko from Tokyo - How to go and what to do

By gowithguide travel specialist: kenzia v..

There are so many beautiful places in Japan outside of the major places like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.

One of which is the Nikko. Nikko is the perfect place to go if you want to explore a little more of Japan without having to travel far from Tokyo. If you have an extra day after traveling around Tokyo, you can try to squeeze in a day trip to Nikko.

You might not be sure where Nikko is, how to travel there, or what to do in Nikko, I’ve got you covered. With so much information on the web, including this article, it will only take a few minutes to get the answers to those things. In this article, I am going to introduce a little bit of Nikko to you, how to travel to Nikko from Tokyo, popular attractions in Nikko, day tour options to Nikko, and more recommendations. So, sit tight and read on!

Nikko is a city located in the northwestern part of Tochigi Prefecture, which is part of the Greater Tokyo Area. It is Japan’s symbolic international tourist destination. But, not only it is popular for international tourists, but also for Japanese as well.

Nikko is the third largest city by area in Japan, located approximately 140 km (87 miles) north of Tokyo. Nikko is a place with beautiful nature all year round, possessing a World Heritage site. What makes it so popular is its incredible nature, such as the Nikko Mountains and lakes, also the historically famous temples and shrines with the area being designated as a World Heritage Site.

How to travel to Nikko from Tokyo?

Here are ways to travel to Nikko from some major places in Tokyo:

Tokyo station to Nikko (1 h 55 m- ¥5380) There are several ways you can reach Nikko, but this one is the most efficient one.

-At Tokyo station, you can either take the Yamagata Shinkansen or the Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station.

-At Utsunomiya Station, get off the Shinkansen and switch to Nikko Line (orange) and get off at Imaichi Station.

Shinjuku station to Nikko (2h 15m- ¥3070)

-Take the JR Yamanote Line (light green) to Nishi-Nippori Station.

-At Nishi-Nippori, switch to Chiyoda Line (dark green) and get off at Kitasenju Station.

-At Kitasenju Station, switch to Nikko Kinugawa and get off at Shimo-Imaichi Station.

Narita Airport Terminal 2 to Nikko (around 3h - ¥3560)

-From Narita Airport Terminal 2·3, get on the Narita Skyaccess, and get off at Oshiage Station ‘skytree’.

-From there, switch to Nikko Kinugawa and get off at Shimo-Imaichi Station.

Haneda Airport Terminal 2 to Nikko (2 h 40m- ¥4500)

-From Haneda Airport Domestic Terminal, take the Keikyu-kuyo Line (red) to Shinagawa Station.

-At Shinagawa Station, switch to Tokaido Line (orange) and get off at Omiya Station.

-At Omiya Station, switch to Nikko-Kinugawa and get off at Shimo-Imaichi Station.

Akihabara Station to Nikko (around 2h- ¥2900) -Take the Hibiya Line (grey) to Kitasenju Station.

-At Kitasenju Station, switch to Nikko-Kinugawa and get off at Shimo-Imaichi Station.

Shibuya station to Nikko (2h 30m- ¥2940) -Take the Ginza Line (orange) to Asakusa Station.

-At Asakusa Station, switch to Nikko-Kinugawa and get off at Shimo-Imaichi Station.

What to do in Nikko?

Nikko is an area rich with nature. The stunning view of the mountains and lakes, the incredible waterfalls and parks are some of the attractions of Nikko that continue to attract tourists to visit this place. The historically famous temples and shrines with the area being designated as a World Heritage site are what continue to attract the interest of international and Japanese tourists to visit Nikko.

You can enjoy the view of the mountains and lakes, take a stroll in the many different parks, take photos and cross of the popular historical bridges, take baths in the onsens, visit and learn the history of the temples and shrines, enjoy coffee and Japanese food while enjoying the view of the waterfalls, enjoy the theme parks, and many more.

Bottom line?

You can truly experience nature and also many other things in Nikko. Whether you are a nature fan or not, Nikko is a great place to go.

Popular attractions in Nikko

Here are some of the popular attractions in Nikko you should visit:

• Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura

Here, you can get a taste of the real Edo Era. Enjoy the illusory experience that will make you wonder if you have gotten lost in a movie world. You can have a samurai experience, adult ninja experience, go into the mazes, and many more attractions.

• Nikko Tosho-gu Shrine

This is one of the shrines that form the World Heritage site, with 42 structures of the shrine nominated, 5 of them designated as National Treasures of Japan, and 3 of them as the Important Cultural Properties. Here, you can see the extravagantly decorated Yomemon gate and other highlights like the Three Wise Monkeys and Sleeping Cat.

• Kegon Falls

Located in the Nikko National Park, this is one of the most prominent waterfalls in Japan. The main fall is approximately 97 meters tall and has about 12 smaller waterfalls. This is also a popular place to see the incredible autumn colors.

This is a registered national treasure said to represent heaven and earth. You can see the beautiful shrine and enjoy the massive complex. This is also a hit place to see the changing autumn colors.

• Tobu World Square

A place where some of the world’s famous buildings are recreated in 1/25 scale. This square has 6 zones, with 102 buildings from 21 countries, including 45 World Heritage sites. The night illumination is also a popular attraction. A must visit place in Nikko. 

There are still many more popular attractions in Nikko you should visit, such as Nikko National Park , Yutaki Waterfall , Rinnoji Temple , and many more . 

Make your Nikko day trip more interesting- how?

There are ways to make your day trip to and travel in Nikko more interesting and convenient. Go on a private tour! With private day tours, you will be guided by a private tour guide. With this, you can have an enhanced and better experience while traveling in Nikko.

It’s way more convenient as you don’t have to plan your itinerary yourself and guided by a qualified tour guide. You can visit the popular places and enjoy the many different attractions Nikko offers without hassle.

Look, the thing is… There are many places on the web that offer day tours to GoWithGuide , but you never know whether they are a trustworthy and good website or not. That’s why I’m recommending you GoWithGuide. The website is trustworthy, offering many different day trip options to Nikko. You can also customize the tour itinerary according to your preferences. You also don't have to figure out the transport from Tokyo to Nikko because your guide will help you with that.

Not only the website offers day tours to Nikko, it also offers many different qualified tour guides you can hire to make your trip more interesting and meaningful.

Recommended day tours to Nikko from Tokyo

If you are interested, I’ll list some of my recommendations for a great day trip tour to Nikko.

One of my recommendations is the Kahoko's Excursion from Tokyo to Nikko tour, from which you can experience many popular spots in Nikko and it's customizable to meet your preferences. 

Other recommendations you can check out include Nikko 1-Day Tour and also Nikko Tour .

There are many more day trip tour options to Nikko from Tokyo you can choose from, to check them out, click here . Get this: With these day tours, not only you can have a better experience in Nikko by visiting beautiful and popular spots, you can also understand deeper about Nikko with the insights given by your guides. You can have a more convenient travel to Nikko as your guide will guide you. This allows you to have an enhanced yet hassle-free experience! From the tours mentioned above, the tour guides provide set itinerary suggestions which you can follow or customize according to your preferences. Another thing! If you are not looking for private tours but for private guides in Nikko, you can click here . For tours or private guide options for other areas in Japan, you can click here . I hope this article helps provide useful information for your trip to Nikko, including how to go to Nikko from some major places in Tokyo, what to do in Nikko, the popular attractions in Nikko, tour options for a day trip to Nikko and more recommendations. I hope you have a great time in Nikko!

Popular Nikko Tour Guides

Hello, my name is Yasuro (Mr). I was born and brought up in Kansai, graduated from a univ in Kobe city, after moved into Kanto, 30 years in Tokyo, 2.5 years in Nagoya city, 7.5 years abroad (KL & S'pore) as a rep of a construction company and I got the National Guide Certificate in 2011. My hobbies are making Haiku poems, singing various songs (voice-training for 18 years), playing the folk-guitar, trekking in mountains like Takao and Okutama in the West of Tokyo, visiting museums like in Ueno Park and travelling around Japan to make Haiku poems. Thank you for your attention.                                                                                                                                  

Hello, I'm Yoshi!! I started my second career as a tour guide after retiring from the Japanese computer company I had worked for about 40 years. I was born in Asakusa and grew up in down town in Tokyo. I am married with two daughters and three grandchildren, two girls and a boy. I've experienced guiding international visitors in Tokyo and other famous sightseeing spots as a guide for several years. I will be so happy to help you enjoy your stay in Japan. Look forward to joining my tour!!                                                                                                                                  

Kon-ni-chi-wa. Hello! I'm Kaori, having lived in Tokyo for more than 20 years since I got married with a photographer who lives here. I'm originally from Shizuoka prefecture which has Mt.Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan. I took 2 working-holiday-visa stays in my younger days. One is in Toronto, Canada, and another is Australia touring by motorcycle. One year respectively. I love travel both international and domestic, especially by motorcycle. That's why I love helping individual travelers rather than normal package tours, cause I myself love travel freely. I love nature, gardens, trekking, greenery, cycling and motorcycle. I love to take you to the off-the-beaten tracks where I love in Tokyo. As a national government licensed guide, I've got deep knowledge of Japanese culture and history. I really enjoy talking about Japanese way of life with people from different cultures. But I'm so flexible that I don't bother if you're not so interested in. We see what you like and talk what you are interested in. That's my style. If you don't know what to want, I can help you with that. I'm outgoing, ( but organized pretty well!), very easy to get along with anybody, including small kids to teenagers. Can't wait to see you soon!                                                                                                                                  

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