15 Best Things to Do in Nikko, Japan

Nestled in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is a picturesque town steeped in history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Known for its stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Nikko’s heritage as a center of Shinto and Buddhist worship dates back centuries, making it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic experience of Japan’s spiritual culture.

*This post may contain affiliate links, as a result, we may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) on any bookings/purchases you make through the links in this post. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read our full disclosure

The peaceful town of Nikko was built on centuries’ worth of history, faith, and culture. In Central Nikko, you can find the Tōshō-gū Shrine, one of the most visited shrines in Japan as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is right at the heart of Nikko National Park, with its sacred mountains–including Mount Nantai, also known as the Mount Fuji of Nikko National Park–mixed forests, and stunning waterfalls. Nikko’s natural beauty is a sight to see, and the area is particularly known for its beautiful colours in autumn. 

This small town was such a refreshing change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Whether you’re visiting Nikko on a day trip or planning to stay longer, it’s a great place to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and natural attractions. 

Read on to discover 15 things to do when visiting Nikko! 

chuzenji lake, things to do in nikko japan
Chuzenji Lake, Nikko, Japan
Traveling Soon? Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip!
  • Book Your Accommodation HERE
  • Search for Great Tours HERE
  • Get a Car Rental HERE
  • Buy Travel Insurance HERE
  • See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE
  • Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE
  • Order an eSim HERE

How to Get to Nikko

Nikko is only 2 hours away from Tokyo Station and is easily accessible by car and public transportation from other popular destinations in Japan.

By Train

Limited express trains depart from two major train stations in Tokyo: Shinjuku and Asakusa, but the fastest way to reach Nikko is to take the Tobu Spacia X Train from the Asakusa Station.

The train is a brand new addition by Tobu Railways and offers a chance to travel to Nikko in luxury and comfort. The Tobu Spacia X train is different from other commuter trains in Japan, offering features like spacious, reclining seats, private compartments, and stylish interiors that reflect Japanese aesthetics. Unlike standard commuter trains, the Spacia X has large panoramic windows designed to enhance the scenic views along the route, especially when travelling to Nikko’s mountainous landscapes. Different cars offer variable levels of comfort and amenities, with the best being the first car where you can enjoy onboard food and drink services and a view of the cockpit. 

On the Tobu Spacia X train to Nikko, things to do in nikko japan
On the Tobu Spacia X train to Nikko

By Car 

Driving to Nikko from Tokyo is a scenic and flexible way to explore the region. You can stop along the way to take in the countryside. The trip takes about two hours by car, and as you approach Nikko, you pass through charming rural landscapes and forested mountains. 

The roads in Nikko’s National Park area can be narrow and winding, but they offer breathtaking views, especially during the autumn foliage season.

You can also take the train and rent a car upon arrival in Nikko. You can find rental car companies near any major train station, such as Nikko Station, Tobu-Nikko Station, Kinugawa Onsen, and Shimo-Imaichi. 

But don’t forget – you need an international driver’s license to rent a car and legally drive in Japan!

By Bus

If you’re coming from the airport, highway buses to Nikko depart from Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, and Yokohama Airport.

Tip: If you plan on visiting many of the major sights, you can save more by purchasing a Nikko Pass from Tobu, the bus company that runs a network in Nikko. The passes give you free bus rides on routes that run from Nikko Station and Tobu-Nikko Station, as well as discounts on tickets, including the main shrines and temples. 

Best Time to Visit Nikko

Nikko experiences a cold, snowy winter from December to February, a colourful spring from February to April, a short and mild summer from June to August, and a breathtaking autumn from October to November.

While most tourists prefer summer (you can expect warmer weather and longer queues this time of year), Nikko’s natural landscape shines in the fall. It’s a very popular destination for its fall foliage – a great time to catch the town shifting to dramatic shades of red, gold, and orange.

Things to Do in Nikko

1. Visit the Toshogu Shrine 

The Toshogu Shrine was established in 1916 and, along with the Futarasan Shrine and Rinno-ji Temple, makes up the Nikko Toshogu Shrine UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The Toshogu Shrine stands as a memorial for Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, that ruled Japan for over 250 years. It’s one of the most decorated shrines in the country, with wood carvings and large amounts of gold leaf that you can’t find anywhere else in Japan.

Some notable structures within the Toshogu Shrine are the Five-Story Pagoda, the Yomeimon Gate, and the Nikko Toshogu Museum. The shrine also holds about 5,100 wooden carvings, such as the nemuri-neko (sleeping cat), the “see, hear, and speak no evil” monkeys, and the Sozonozo Elephants (“imagined elephants,” sculpted by an artist who had never seen one before!).

Within the Toshogu Shrine complex is the Rin’nōji Taiyū-in, a mausoleum built for the third Tokugawa shogun and grandson of Ieyasu. The grandson built a more modest structure for himself, lined with 20,000 cedar trees. Today, about 12,500 of these trees remain. 

You can visit the Toshogu Shrine from 9am-5pm daily (until 4pm only from November until March). Admission is ¥1,300 for the Toshogu Shrine only, ¥1,000 for the Nikko Toshogu Museum only, and ¥2,100 for both the shrine and museum.

Entrance to Toshogu Shrine in Nikko
Entrance to Toshogu Shrine in Nikko

2. Visit the Rinnoji Temple (Oldest Temple in Nikko) 

This is the oldest and most important temple in Nikko, founded by a monk called Shodo Shonin, who introduced Buddhism to the town in the 8th century. 

Here, you can find 3-lacquered Buddha statues that represent the temple’s devotion to Nikko’s 3 sacred mountains: Mt. Nantai, Mt. Taro, and Mt. Nyoho.

The Rinnoji Temple is open daily from 8am to 5pm (or until 4pm from November through March) with a ¥400 fee per person.

3. Go for a Walk along Kanman-ga-Fuchi Abyss 

On the west side of Nikko is a scenic 5 km (3.1 mile) Kanman walking path right along the Daiya River. This leads to the Kanma-ga Fuchi Abyss, a gorge lined with a row of mysterious Jizo statues. Made of stone and wearing red hats and red bibs, the Jizo statues are said to be protectors of children and travellers. 

The walking trail is always open, and there’s no admission fee. Just be careful not to walk too close to the river banks, as the rocks are slippery!

Kanman-ga Fuchi Abyss
Kanman-ga Fuchi Abyss

4. Explore the Sprawling Nikko National Park 

The Nikko National Park is not only home to the UNESCO World Heritage Shrines and Temples of Nikko, it’s also one of the oldest national parks in Japan. 

The large national park covers 3 prefectures, with landscapes that include volcanoes, plateaus, lakes, mixed forests, and onsen (natural hot springs). It’s also rich in culture and history, with many linkages to the imperial family and foreign diplomats.

There are a number of ways to explore the park. You can go on a leisurely stroll along the hiking trails, join a guided tour, search for hidden waterfalls, or traverse the mountain range.

We popped into the park a few times throughout our visit and enjoyed a nice walk in the forest. 

5. Explore the Senjōgahara Marshlands

The Senjogahara Marshlands offer some of the best trails in Nikko National Park. An easy nature trail takes you through the marsh, where there are more than 350 species of native plants and wild birds. 

Located 1,400m above sea level, this is one of the largest highland marshes on Honshu. Part of it is protected under the Ramsar Convention for the conservation of wetlands.

6. Wall along the Shinkyo Bridge 

The Shinkyo Bridge is a sacred bridgeway that sits at the entrance of Nikko’s shrines. The bridge dates back to the 17th century, with its current structure built in 1636 during the Edo period. The black and red structure cuts through lush trees and goes over a river, which looks especially striking in the fall. It’s no surprise that this is one of the most photographed spots in Nikko!

If you want to cross it, the Shinkyo Bridge is open daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm from April to October, and 9am to 4pm from November to March. Admission is ¥300.

Oksana at Shinkyo Bridge 
Oksana at Shinkyo Bridge 

7. Enjoy the Views at Lake Chuzenji 

About 30 minutes from the town of Nikko is the serene Lake Chuzenji. Located at the foot of Mt. Nantai, also known as Nikko’s sacred volcano, the lake was formed when the volcano erupted over 20,000 years ago.

Today, the area surrounding Lake Chuzenji is mostly underdeveloped and forested, making it a sight to see in the fall. You can soak up the views by hiking around the lake (which covers 25 km or 15.1mi in total), hop on a sightseeing boat, or drive up the Irohazaka Winding Road for panoramic views over the valley.

Lake Chuzenji
Lake Chuzenji
On a sightseeing boat in Lake Chuzenji
On a sightseeing boat in Lake Chuzenji
Shoreline around Lake Chuzenji
Shoreline around Lake Chuzenji

8. Head Up the Akechidaira Ropeway 

If you want to get the best view of Nikko, head to the Akechidaira Plateau at the top of the Irohazaka Winding Road. There’s a 3-minute ropeway that takes you from the parking lot to an Akechidaira Lookout Station, where you get stunning panoramas of Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and Mt. Nantai. A round-trip ride costs ¥1,000 for adults and ¥500 for children.

9. Check Out Nikko’s Beautiful Waterfalls

Nikko is sometimes called the land of waterfalls, with a number of them scattered all around town. Here are some popular ones:

  • Kegon Falls – This is known as Nikko’s most famous waterfall and one of Japan’s Top 3 waterfalls. It has an impressive drop from 97m or 318 ft high, with lush greenery as its backdrop. You can view the waterfall from a free observation platform accessible on foot, or pay a small fee to get a view at the base of the falls. 
  • Urami Falls – Best accessed by car, this 45-meter waterfall is considered one of the 3 most famous waterfalls in Nikko. Cascading down the mountainside and unto the surrounding rocks, this tranquil view even inspired poetry during the Edo period!
  • Ryuzu Falls – Its name translates to “dragon head waterfall,” as the twin falls are said to look like a dragon’s head. The Ryuzu Falls is one of the first areas in Nikko to change to autumn colours, and the fiery yellow and red foliage helps it live up to its name. There is a nice cafe on site where you can enjoy delicious soba and matcha.
  • Yudaki Falls – A mighty waterfall that gushes from the south edge of Lake Yuno, you can take in the dramatic sight of Yudaki Falls from an observation platform near the basin from the nearby café.

10. Pay a Visit to the Chūzen-ji Temple

The Chuzenji Temple was first constructed in 784 CE, making it one of the oldest temples in Nikko. Located on Lake Chuzenji, this temple actually gave the lake its name. 

One of its main highlights is the 6-meter tall wooden statue of Senju Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, carved more than 1,200 years ago. The Kannon is the oldest surviving statue in Nikko and is designated as an Important Cultural Property.

The Chuzenji Temple is open daily with an admission fee of ¥500. Hours vary depending on the time of year. 

11. Walk along Cedar Avenue at Suginamiki Park

Suginamiki Park has preserved the area’s natural scenery since the Edo Period. It’s best known for its Japanese Redwood or Cedar Avenue. The cedar trees in Suginamiki Park are part of the ancient cedar-lined avenue known as Nikko Kaido, which was planted in the early 17th century during the Edo period. 

These trees were originally established to honour and protect the approach to the sacred shrines and temples of Nikko, forming a grand, natural pathway. Today, they are recognized as some of the oldest and longest tree-lined avenues in the world, symbolizing both historical reverence and Japan’s deep respect for nature.

12. Visit the Italian Embassy Villa Memorial Park or British Embassy Memorial Park 

Back in the day, the cool temperatures at Lake Chuzenji drew the attention of foreign diplomats, encouraging them to build residential villas along the lake. That’s why you can find the British Embassy Villa and the Italian Embassy Villa there, both having served as residences for diplomats to escape the summer heat long ago.

Today, tourists can visit Lake Chuzenji for a lovely view and learn more about these countries’ cultural exchanges. Don’t miss the chance to try the tea and scones endorsed by the British embassy chef! 

Inside the Italian Embassy in Nikko
Inside the Italian Embassy Villa in Nikko
Overlooking the lake at the British Embassy Villa
Overlooking the lake at the British Embassy Villa

13. Get a view at Mt. Hangetsu Observation Deck 

For a different viewpoint over Lake Chuzenji, head up Mt. Hangetsuyama. Hiking trails lead up to the Hangetsu Observation Deck, which is another well-known spot to catch autumn views. The deck offers great views of Lake Chuzenji, Mt. Nantai, and the Okunikko region.

If you’re not quite up for the hike, you can also take a bus, or a taxi, or drive up the Chuzenjiko Skyline, a winding road that passes by the observation deck. Note that this skyline is closed during winter from late November to mid-April. 

Views of Nikko
Views of Nikko from Mt. Hangetsu

14. Travel Back in Time at Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura

Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura is an interactive theme park in Nikko that recreates life during Japan’s Edo period (1603-1868), offering an immersive journey back in time.

You can explore traditional Edo-style streets, meet costumed samurai, ninjas, and geisha, and enjoy hands-on experiences like archery, sword-fighting, and dressing in period attire. The park also hosts theatrical performances, including ninja action shows and traditional Japanese plays, which bring the spirit of the Edo era to life. 

Popular attractions include a haunted Japanese temple, a ninja training hall, and a ninja labyrinth! 

edo wonderland
Edo Wonderland, Nikko, Japan

15. Try Yuba at Nikko Yubamaki ZEN 

No trip to Nikko is complete without trying the region’s specialty called yuba, made out of tofu skin that forms at the top of boiling soy milk. The taste is similar to regular tofu, but the texture feels more jelly-like.

We recommend trying yuba at Nikko Yubamaki ZEN, a new restaurant that offers yuba sets meals for lunch and dinner. Make a reservation ahead of time, as the restaurant is small and quite popular. 

Where to Stay in Nikko

Nikko Kanaya Hotel

Nikko Kanaya is the oldest Western-style hotel in Japan and was established back in 1873. It has housed many prominent guests, including Albert Einstein and Helen Keller! Just being in this space feels so special.

The hotel is simple but thoughtfully built, furnished with a blend of Japanese and Western styles that take you back to the Meiji Period. On-site, there are two restaurants and a bar. If you can’t book a stay here, we recommend to stop by for lunch. They serve a great Western Japanese meal menu that showcases local specialties like fish and local desserts

Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel

During our time in Nikko, we stayed the Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel, 4-star hotel with a fantastic location right on the shores of Lake Chuzenji in Nikko National Park. The hotel has a unique charm, blending Japanese hospitality with a touch of classic European style—a legacy that dates back to 1931. We appreciated the warm, inviting atmosphere and the fact that it’s part of the historic Kanaya family of hotels, known for welcoming international visitors. The hotel felt more like a cozy mountain lodge in Europe than a modern Japanese hotel – a suitable setting for being based in Nikko. 

Our room was spacious and had everything we needed, including a comfortable bed and a private balcony with a beautiful view of the forest. It was cozy and comfortable, with a mix of traditional look and feel and the typical Japanese amenities we’d come to expect and love at hotels throughout the country.

The hot springs at Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel were a highlight of our stay, offering a relaxing way to unwind after a day of exploring. The hotel has both indoor and outdoor onsen baths, with mineral-rich waters that are believed to have healing properties. The outdoor bath, in particular, was really beautiful and peaceful, surrounded by trees. Soaking in the hot spring while taking in the fresh mountain air was the perfect way to recharge, and we left feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Dining at the hotel was convenient and enjoyable, with both Western and Japanese-inspired options. We tried their multi-course dinner, which featured local ingredients like Nikko yuba (tofu skin) and fresh river trout. Breakfast was also a solid start to the day, with both Japanese and Western options on offer. The restaurant’s big windows overlooking the trees made meals even more enjoyable!

Overall, we found the hotel to be a great base for exploring Nikko and Lake Chuzenji. 

Inside our room at Nikko Kanaya Chuzenji Hotel
Inside our room at Nikko Kanaya Chuzenji Hotel
Our dinner at Nikko Kanaya Chuzenji Hotel
Our dinner at Nikko Kanaya Chuzenji Hotel
Nikko Chuzenji Kanaya hotel
Nikko Chuzenji Kanaya hotel

 

Disclaimer: Our visit to Nikko was made possible in partnership with Tobu Railways and Marian Goldberg Marketing CommunicationsBut as always, all opinions expressed in this article are our own. 

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Scroll to Top