Nikko
Save28 hand-picked places in 9 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
Only have a day? See 2 ready-made day plans ↓Show on the map
Tips
8 places on the map
Nature
- 1
Scenic mountain lake beneath Mount Nantai
3 tips
- Take the Irohazaka bus
- Try a lake cruise
- Cooler than the town
📷 Photos
- 2
Calm highland lake with hot spring village
3 tips
- Try a lakeside walk
- Onsen town nearby
- Buses from Nikko are infrequent
📷 Photos
- 3
High plateau marsh with boardwalk hiking
3 tips
- Wear walking shoes
- Bring insect repellent in summer
- Buses from Chuzenji
📷 Photos
- 4
Lava gorge lined with moss-covered Jizo statues
3 tips
- About 20 minutes walk from Shinkyo
- Count the Jizo statues if you dare
- Best in autumn
📷 Photos
- 5
97-metre waterfall draining Lake Chuzenji
3 tips
- Elevator to the viewing deck
- Best in autumn foliage
- Often misty, check weather
📷 Photos
- 6
Cascade splitting around a rock like a dragon head
3 tips
- Pair with Senjogahara walk
- Autumn is spectacular
- Tea house at the top
📷 Photos
- 7
Long cascade beside Lake Yunoko
3 tips
- Short walk from the bus stop
- Spectacular in autumn
- Cold even in summer
📷 Photos
- 8
Highland plateau with trails and seasonal day lily meadows.
📷 Photos
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Before you go: Nikko tips
Transportation
- Get the Nikko Pass: Tobu Railway offers passes from Tokyo covering trains and local buses around Nikko.
- Use local buses: buses run from the stations to the shrines, Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls.
- Walk the shrine area: Toshogu, Futarasan and Rinnoji are close together and best explored on foot.
Security
- Watch slippery steps: stone stairs and paths around shrines can be slick in rain or snow.
- Check road conditions: the Irohazaka winding road to Lake Chuzenji can get congested and icy in winter.
- Keep away from monkeys: wild macaques live in the area; do not feed them or show food.
Saving
- Buy combo tickets: combined shrine tickets can save money when visiting several sites.
- Pack snacks from convenience stores: konbini meals are affordable and handy for long days of sightseeing.
- Visit free sights: the Shinkyo Bridge can be viewed for free from the road, and Kanmangafuchi Abyss is free.
Weather/Clothing
- Expect cool mountain air: Nikko is cooler than Tokyo; bring a jacket even in summer evenings.
- Pack warm for winter: winters are cold and snowy at higher elevations, so bring a warm coat and boots.
- Enjoy autumn colours: late autumn foliage is spectacular; bring layers as temperatures drop quickly.
Cultural
- Respect shrine etiquette: bow at torii gates, purify hands at the water basin and avoid walking in the centre path.
- Try yuba: tofu skin is a Nikko specialty, served in many dishes at local restaurants.
- Remove shoes when asked: some temple halls require removing shoes; follow signs and use provided bags.
Local Hacks
- Arrive early at Toshogu: get there at opening to see the ornate shrine before tour groups arrive.
- Walk the Jizo statues: the Kanmangafuchi Abyss path is lined with rows of stone Jizo statues, peaceful and atmospheric.
- Stay in an onsen ryokan: Kinugawa and Yumoto onsen areas offer traditional inns with hot spring baths.
1-day itineraries in Nikko
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.