Top Things to do in Nikko: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Looking for things to do in Nikko? After living in Japan for two years and visiting almost every single prefecture, Nikko still remains as one of my favourite places in Japan. I’ve found myself coming back, time and time again, drawn to its beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
Nikko (日光) in Japanese means sunshine or sunlight. The city truly shines in the fall when the leaves change colour, becoming a mix of bright red, orange, and yellow.
Nikko is located in Tochigi prefecture, a serene escape just a few hours outside of Tokyo. It’s famous for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. It offers an unforgettable blend of nature and spirituality, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
How to Get There From Tokyo
Getting to Nikko is easy and convenient by public transportation. I highly recommend getting the Nikko All Area Pass for a more economical journey!
Choosing the Right Pass
There are two passes, the Nikko All Area Pass, and the Nikko World Heritage Area Pass.
- Nikko All Area Pass – valid for 4 consecutive days, includes unlimited bus rides in Nikko and Oku-Nikko. This is a great option for those wanting to visit Chuzenji Lake, Senjogahara, Kirifuri Kogen, and Yumoto onsen.
- Nikko World Heritage Area Pass – valid for 2 consecutive days, includes unlimited bus rides in Central Nikko.
I recommend the Nikko All Area Pass as it provides you unlimited bus rides within a larger area allowing you to see all the attractions that Nikko has to offer. Even if you use the pass for 2 days it pays itself off.
Purchase your Nikko Pass here.
Both the Nikko All Area Pass and the Nikko World Heritage Area Pass can be purchased from this link for hassle-free travel in Nikko.
✔️ You can purchase both Nikko Passes in advance here.
From Tobu Asakusa Station
There are two options:
- Take the Limited Express train to Tobu Nikko station. You can take the Revaty Kegon, Spacia X, or Spacia Nikko train.
- Take the slower local train and transfer 1-2 times. This is fully covered by the Nikko Pass but takes about 3 hours one way.
The Nikko Pass will cover the base fare of your ticket but you will need to pay an additional fee if you upgrade to the Limited Express train. Reserve your tickets in advance because Nikko is a popular destination and seats book up quickly. Same day bookings are hard to come by, especially the Asakusa-Nikko route.
What are the benefits of choosing the Limited Express train?
All seats are reserved which means you are guaranteed to ride in comfort and have a place to store your luggage. You won’t need to worry about transferring trains and you will arrive much faster in 1hr and 50 minutes.
Spacia X Train – made its debut July 15th, 2023 and is for those who want to travel in luxury and style. The train is home to the Goen Cafe which serves alcoholic beverages, snacks, and sweets that embody the unique tastes of Nikko.
You can book your limited express tickets for all three trains here. Remember you need to reserve two tickets! One for your departure (Asakusa-Tobu Nikko) and one for your return (Tobu Nikko-Asakusa).
You can check out the train timetables here.
Tip: There are two Asakusa Stations! They are located across the street from each other and can be confusing for tourists. You want Tobu Railway Asakusa Station. If you are coming from Shinjuku or Shibuya you will arrive at the Tokyo Metro Asakusa Station, you need to exit and cross the street to Tobu Railway Asakusa Station to transfer to the limited express train.
Top Things to Do in Nikko
Nikko is nestled in the mountains, it boasts ornate shrines and temples, including the famous Toshogu Shrine, as well as breathtaking waterfalls, lakes, and scenic hiking trails. Whether you’re drawn to its historical significance or looking to immerse yourself in Japan’s tranquil landscapes, you will find many things to do in Nikko.
1. Nikko Toshogu Shrine (日光東照宮)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for the “Three Wise Monkeys”. They represent “see no evil, hear no evil, and speak no evil”. This lavishly decorated Shinto shrine is Tokugawa Ieyasu’s place of enshrinement, the first of the Tokugawa shogunate.
The shrine complex is surrounded by over a dozen buildings, nestled in the forest where you can admire the changing colour of the leaves in the fall. It is both a cultural and spiritual landmark.
Keep an eye out for the Sleeping Cat carving, or “nemuri neko”. It symbolizes peace and can be found above a doorway leading to Tokugawa Ieyasu’s tomb. The cat is found sleeping under a peony flower, which symbolizes protection and tranquility.
Visiting the Toshogu Shrine is one of the most popular things to do in Nikko so make sure it’s at the top of your list!
Price: Adults – 1600 yen, Children – 550 yen
Hours of Operation: 9:00am-5:00pm (April to October), 9:00am-4:00pm (November to March)
Tip: If you’re lucky you can experience the magnificence of the Nikko Toshogu Shrine Autumn Festival (日光東照宮秋季大祭) which occurs every year on October 16th-17th. You’ll be able to witness horseback archery (yabusame) and a majestic parade of 1000 Samurai Warriors adorned in traditional wear.
2. Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple (輪王寺)
Rinnoji Temple is a buddhist temple most famously known for the Hall of Three Buddhas. The Nikkozan complex is quite vast and has properties in the Nikko City Sannai District, Oku-Nikko and near Chuzenji lake. It is also a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nikko.
I recommend visiting the main hall, Sanbutsudo, to see the three 8 metre tall gold statues of the Buddhas. The Daigomado Hall, Shoyo-en Garden, and the Treasure Hall are all nearby the main hall. Visit the ones that interest you, or you can visit them all!
The temple is surrounded by Shoyo-en Garden, which provides picturesque landscapes, especially during the fall, making it the perfect place for relaxation and reflection.
Tip : Visit the Daigomado Hall to experience the Goma Prayer Fire Ritual. The ritual times are 7:30am, 9:30am, 11:00am, 12:30am, and 2:30pm. (You need to register at least 10 minutes in advance).
Ticket fees vary on the sites that you choose to visit at Rinnoji Temple.
Price: Adults – (400-900) yen, Children – (200-400) yen
Hours of Operation: 8:00am-5:00pm (April to October), 8:00am-4:00pm (November to March)
3. Futarasan Shrine (二荒山神社)
Futarasan shrine is the other shinto shrine in Nikko, alongside Toshogu shrine. It is dedicated to the gods of the three sacred mountains: Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro. It is also a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nikko.
Many people visit this shrine to pray for fertility, good fortune, and marital satisfaction. The famous Shinkyo Bridge (more on this below) is also a part of the shrine.
Visiting the shrine itself is free but there is a small admission fee for the garden onsite. I enjoyed the paid area and thought it was worth the 300 yen entrance fee.
Price (for garden): Adults – 300 yen, Children – 100 yen
Hours of Operation: 8:00am-5:00pm (April to October), 9:00am-4:00pm (November to March)
4. Chuzenji Sightseeing Cruise
The Chuzenji Sightseeing Cruise offers a scenic boat ride on Lake Chuzenji. It provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and waterfalls.
You can take a cozy seat inside by the window or walk around on the deck for a panoramic view of the lake. It does become a bit chilly during the fall so I recommend a nice warm seat by the window.
A full loop around the lake takes about 55 minutes. There will be stops along the way so you can hop off earlier if you’re interested in visiting the Embassy Villa Memorial Parks.
The Chuzenji Sightseeing Cruise is another perk included in the Nikko All Area Pass. If you’re not using the pass, the price of the cruise will depend on how many stops you ride the boat for.
Price: Adults – (600-1680) yen, Children – (300-840) yen or FREE with the Nikko All Area Pass
Hours of Operation: 8:00am-5:00pm (April to October), 9:00am-4:00pm (November to March)
5. Tamozawa Imperial Villa
The Tamozawa Imperial Villa is a historic residence with a blend of Edo, Meiji, and Taisho period architecture. It was originally built as a retreat for the Imperial family and offers a rare glimpse of Japanese imperial life.
I was lucky to partake in a short guided tour from a villa staff member. It was the end of the day with very few people. I find that the locals outside of the larger cities are friendlier and more curious of tourists. Knowing a little bit of Japanese will take you a long way.
Tip: Be prepared to remove your shoes at the entrance. It might be a good idea to bring a pair of socks if you don’t like walking around barefoot.
Price: Adults – 600 yen, Children – 300 yen
Hours of Operation: 9:00am-5:00pm (April to October), 9:00am-4:30pm (November to March) – They are closed on Tuesdays.
6. Akechidaira Ropeway (明智平ロープウェイ)
Ride the 3 minute Akechidaira Ropeway to the lookout point for its famous views. On a clear day, you can see Lake Chuzenji, Mount Nantai, and Kegon Falls.
Known for its stunning panoramic views over the mountainous landscapes, it is beautiful to visit any time of the year. Fall, in my opinion, is the ideal time to visit as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange. The lookout point is an incredible vantage point for Nikko’s natural scenery, making it a perfect spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Tip: The first time I visited here, it was unfortunately a foggy day. The fog was so thick you weren’t able to see anything. I only recommend riding the Akechidaira Ropeway on a clear day to enjoy the views.
Price: Adults – 1000 yen, Children – 500 yen (Prices are for a roundtrip)
Hours of Operation: 8:40am-3:30pm (April to November), 9:00am-3:30pm (December to March)
7. Kegon Falls (華厳の滝)
Kegon Falls is one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls and a popular attraction in Nikko. It stands 97 metres tall and uses Lake Chuzenji as its source of water. It is known as one of the three most beautiful waterfalls in Japan.
The falls can be viewed from multiple platforms, including a paid elevator-accessible viewpoint at the lower deck, providing an up-close experience of the cascading waters. There is also a free viewing platform on the main deck.
Wondering how to plan out your trip to Nikko? Check out the Complete Nikko Itinerary Using the Nikko All Area Pass.
Price: Adults – 600 yen, Children – 400 yen
Hours of Operation: 8:00am-5:00pm (March to November), 9:00am-4:30pm (December to February)
Free Things to Do in Nikko
Traveling on a budget or just looking for more things to do in Nikko? There are many free activities and places to visit in Nikko. Frankly speaking, these are some of my favourite things to do in Nikko because sometimes all we need is to enjoy the beauty that nature has to offer.
8. Shinkyo Bridge (神橋)
Pictures of the iconic red-lacquered Shinkyo Bridge is what initially drew me to visit Nikko for the first time. It is also known as the “Sacred Bridge” and holds spiritual significance as it forms the pathway to the famous Toshogu Shrine.
I promise its beauty lives up to the hype! It looks better in person than it does in pictures in my opinion. When I visited for the first time and sent a picture to my family, they couldn’t believe how blue the sky was and that it wasn’t photoshopped.
You can pay a small fee of 300 yen to cross the bridge. Or you can take your pictures outside the gated area. All my pictures are from outside the gate and turned out beautifully. Shinkyo Bridge provides a striking backdrop for photos and is not to be missed as one of the things to do in Nikko.
If you wish to cross the bridge you can purchase your ticket in advance here.
Hours of Operation: Open 24/7
9. Hiking Senjogahara (戦場ヶ原)
Senjogahara is a beautiful marshland located in Nikko National Park. It is known for its sweeping grasslands, vibrant flora, and views of Mount Nantai. If you’re lucky you might even spot some monkeys!
I didn’t know what to expect but hiking Senjogahara was my favourite activity in Nikko! It is also one of my favourite hiking trails in all of Japan. It’s perfect for all ages because it is mostly flat with almost no incline. You get to enjoy the stunning views without all the grunt work of ascending a mountain.
It has a well-maintained trail network, making it ideal for hikers of all levels. The trail I recommend is the one connecting Ryuzu Falls to Yudaki Falls, about 5 kilometres. It offers a peaceful escape with panoramic views of the marshland, which change with each season. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching and photography.
Hours of Operation: Open 24/7
10. Kanmangafuchi Abyss (憾満ヶ淵)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a serene and mysterious ravine known for its line of Jizo statues, which watch over travellers, women, and children. It was formed by the lava flows of Mount Nantai which creates a unique natural landscape along the Daiya river.
Walk along the path and enjoy the peaceful ambience with moss covered stones, and clear waters. The row of Jizo statues, are often adorned in red bibs and caps, adding a spiritual touch. It is said that there are around 70 Jizo statues but the numbers seem to change, enhancing the area’s mystical reputation.
Kanmangafuchi Abyss is not heavily mentioned when you research about things to do in Nikko but it is a hidden gem in my opinion. Every time I’ve gone there were only a handful of people, so you get to truly immerse yourself in the experience, undisturbed.
Hours of Operation: Open 24/7
11. Kirifuri Kogen (霧降高原)
Kirifuri Kogen, also known as Kirifuri Highlands, is a scenic plateau in Nikko, Japan. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It’s especially famous for its vibrant fall foliage, drawing in many visitors.
Challenge yourself and climb 1,445 stairs named the “corridor in the sky” to reach the Komaruyama Lookout. You’ll be able to see panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, and TOKYO SKYTREE. Looking for a longer trek? Check out the trekking courses available here.
It is tiring but I promise it is worth it! I ended up running to the top in order to catch my train back to Tokyo later that day. It was an attraction I had to squeeze in before leaving.
When visiting in June-July, look out for the broad dwarf day lily (Nikko Kisuge). They are a yellow flower that grow in clusters, covering the entire field, bringing it to life.
After your climb, while waiting for the bus, you can visit the restaurant located on the second floor of the Rest House for a beverage, a meal or some sweets. The beef curry and the noodles are both delicious options!
Hours of Operation: 9:00am-5:00pm (April to October), 9:00am-4:00pm (November to March)
Tip: Make sure you look for the secret password at the top Komaruyama Lookout and remember it. When you climb back down to the bottom, go to the Rest House and share the password and you’ll get a free postcard.
Visiting Nikko: FAQs
Is Nikko a day trip or overnight trip?
Nikko has many things to offer from shrines and temples, scenic hiking trails, lakes and boat rides. You’ll want to allow yourself enough time to be able to visit all the sites. One day is simply not enough to be able to explore the beauty of Nikko.
Do you need a car to get around Nikko?
Although it may be more convenient to get around by car, it is not necessary to drive around Nikko. I have always relied on public transit when visiting and gotten around just fine.
The public transportation system is well thought out and designed for tourists to visit all of the famous landmarks. Nikko is a popular place to visit during the fall and traffic jams can occur. You will be stuck in the same traffic jam whether you are on a bus or in a car.
Is Nikko colder than Tokyo?
Yes, Nikko is more North and will be cooler than Tokyo. Make sure to pack a few extra layers as it can be chilly in the evening and early morning.
Where to Stay In Nikko
For Couples and Families Looking for the Full Experience ($$$)
Nikko Nishimachi Club – This resort is a great option for those looking to treat themselves and experience the hot spring baths. It is conveniently located near Nikko’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
This property combines rustic charm with modern conveniences to ensure a comfortable stay in a peaceful, nature-inspired setting.
Mid Range Option ($$)
Nikko Akarinoyado Villa Revage – This place offers a peaceful stay in Nikko, blending Japanese elegance with Western comforts. It is found among lush greenery, and is located close to the historic sites.
You can also enjoy the Japanese-style hot baths after a day of sightseeing.
For Solo and Budget Travellers ($)
Nikko Park Lodge Mountain Side – This place is perfect for those who are travelling solo or are on a budget. I stayed here with one of my friends and the host offered to drive us to the station when we were checking out.
It is about a five minute taxi ride from the station.
Conclusion: Best Nikko Activities
Exploring Nikko reveals a world of rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and profound spiritual sites that make it an unforgettable destination. From ancient shrines and temples to breathtaking views across the Nikko National Park, there’s something here for every traveler.
Whether you’re drawn to the cultural landmarks, such as Toshogu Shrine, or the serene beauty of places like Lake Chuzenji, Nikko offers endless opportunities for adventure and reflection.
Nikko will always have a special place in my heart and I hope you grow to admire it as much as I do. With so much to see and do, your visit to Nikko is bound to be memorable and inspiring.