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Nikko: UNESCO temples, waterfalls and nature two hours from Tokyo

The most ornate mausoleum in Japan surrounded by centuries-old cedar forests and waterfalls in the mountains of Tochigi.

Red sacred Shinkyo bridge over the Daiya river in Nikko

Nikko at a glance

Within a few square kilometres Nikko brings together two of the country's greatest attractions: the Tosho-gu complex of temples and shrines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the natural setting of Nikko National Park, with Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls and hiking trails among cedars hundreds of years old. The combination of monumental architecture and wild nature makes it the most complete day trip from Tokyo.

Nikko works as a day trip from Tokyo, though staying overnight lets you see the temples at dawn, free of tourists, and explore Lake Chuzenji at a relaxed pace. The most convenient access is the Tobu train from Asakusa; bear in mind this line is not covered by the JR Pass, although Tobu sells specific passes for tourists.

See also:Tokyo guideHakone guideKamakura guide

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Key Nikko areas

The Nikko area is divided into three zones: the temple complex in the centre (Tosho-gu, Rinnoji, Futarasan), the Irohazaka road that climbs to Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls right at the lake's entrance.

  • Ornate gate of the Nikko shrine complex among cedarsTosho-gu and the temple complexTosho-gu is the mausoleum of the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, built in 1617 and expanded in 1636. The Yomeimon gate — with more than 500 decorative carvings — is one of the most photographed monuments in Japan. The complex also includes the Buddhist temple Rinnoji and the Shinto shrine Futarasan, all declared UNESCO sites in 1999.
  • Waterfall among autumn foliage in Nikko National ParkWaterfalls and natureNikko National Park is full of waterfalls. The most famous is Kegon, which drops 97 metres from Lake Chuzenji, but there are many more — such as Ryuzu or Kirifuri — especially spectacular when the foliage turns red and gold in autumn.
  • Lake surrounded by forest with autumn colours in NikkoLake Chuzenji and Chuzenji OnsenLake Chuzenji, at 1,269 metres of altitude, is the highest of the large lakes in Japan. Its shores are flanked by mountains and offer views of the Nantai volcano on clear days. The Chuzenji Onsen area has several ryokan with thermal baths and is the best spot to stay overnight and explore the national park at a relaxed pace.

Activities and experiences in Nikko

Recommended plans, sights and experiences, with budget guidance and direct links.

How to fit Nikko into your itinerary

Nikko is ideal for breaking up your days in Tokyo with a getaway of nature and history. If your route already includes Kamakura and Hakone, Nikko adds a third, completely different excursion — this time to the north — with more mountains and less coast. From Shinjuku the direct Tobu train takes about 2 hours and is not covered by the JR Pass, although Tobu sells specific passes for tourists. To see where to place this day within your route, check the itineraries by duration.

Frequently asked questions about Nikko

How do you get to Nikko from Tokyo?

The most direct option is the Tobu Limited Express Spacia from Asakusa (1h 45 min). You can also go by JR from Ueno to Nikko Station (2h, with a transfer), but the Tobu train is more comfortable and frequent. Tobu sells the Nikko All Area Pass for foreign tourists. See the Japan transport guide →

Does the JR Pass cover the trip to Nikko?

Only partly. The JR Pass covers the JR route via Utsunomiya to Nikko, but the most convenient and direct journey (the Tobu Limited Express from Asakusa) is not included. If you are only going to Nikko, the Tobu Nikko All Area Pass usually pays off more than the JR Pass.

How much time do you need to see Nikko?

With 4-5 hours you can see Tosho-gu and the temple complex. To go up to Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls it is worth setting off early or staying overnight. A full day is enough for the main sights.

Is it worth sleeping in Nikko or doing a there-and-back day trip?

Most people visit on a day trip from Tokyo. Staying a night in Chuzenji Onsen makes sense if you want to see the temples at dawn without groups and explore the lake and waterfalls at a relaxed pace, especially in the autumn foliage season, when traffic on the Irohazaka climb gets complicated in the afternoon.

When is the best time to visit Nikko?

Autumn (mid-October to November) is the most spectacular time: the reddish foliage among the shrine cedars is one of the most photographed landscapes in Japan. Spring is also very beautiful. In winter the temples appear covered in snow but access to the lake may be limited. See when to travel to Japan →