Nikko - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Nikko

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Nikko, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Nikko and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Nikko, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Nikko for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Nikko

Nikko is a small city located in the Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. It is a popular tourist destination due to its cultural and historical significance, as well as its beautiful scenery. The city is known for its numerous shrines and temple complexes, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nikko Toshogu Shrine. In addition to its religious landmarks, Nikko is home to the Nikko National Park, which offers breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor activities. The city is located approximately two hours by train from Tokyo and can be visited as a day trip or a longer stay.

What to visit in Nikko

Nikko is a beautiful town located in Tochigi prefecture, Japan, and is famous for its historic temples, shrines, and natural beauty. Here are the top tourist attractions in Nikko: 1. Toshogu Shrine: It is the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most famous tourist attraction in Nikko. The shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The shrine features elaborate carvings, colorful decorations, and beautiful gardens.
2. Shinkyo Bridge: Shinkyo is a famous bridge located near Toshogu Shrine. It is a picturesque, vermilion-colored suspension bridge that spans across the Daiya River. Shinkyo is believed to be a sacred bridge, and visitors come here to pray for blessings and good fortune.
3. Nikko National Park: It is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park boasts extensive hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, and hot springs. Some of the popular spots within the park include Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and Ryuzu Falls.
4. Futarasan Shrine: It is another important shrine in Nikko, located in the heart of the town. The shrine is dedicated to the three mountains of Nikko (Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro), and it features beautiful gardens and ornate decorations.
5. Taiyuinbyo Shrine: It is located near Toshogu Shrine and is the mausoleum of Tokugawa Iemitsu. The shrine features intricate carvings and detailed artwork.
6. Kanmangafuchi Abyss: It is a scenic gorge located near Nikko's central area. The gorge features beautiful natural formations, such as rocks and rapids. Visitors can explore the hiking trails and take in the stunning views.
7. Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park: It used to be the summer retreat of the Imperial Family. The park features a beautiful garden and a restored traditional Japanese villa with ornate decorations and detailing. These are some of the top tourist attractions in Nikko. Each of these attractions offers a unique experience that visitors would surely enjoy.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Nikko.

When to go on holiday to Nikko

The best time to visit Nikko would be from April to May in spring and from September to November in autumn. During these months, the weather is mild with beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and stunning fall foliage in autumn. In summer, Nikko can be quite hot and humid, while the winter months from December to February can be very cold with heavy snowfall making some attractions difficult to access.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Nikko

To get to Nikko from Tokyo, you can take either the JR or Tobu railway. For the JR train, take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya Station. From there, transfer to the JR Nikko Line and take it to Nikko Station.
For the Tobu train, take the Tobu Limited Express SPACIA from Tobu Asakusa Station to Tobu Nikko Station. The journey takes about 2 hours from Tokyo to Nikko. Note that if you have a Japan Rail Pass, you can only use the JR trains and not the Tobu trains.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Nikko, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Nikko

Sure, here are some of the typical foods you can find in Nikko, Japan along with a brief description of each: 1. Yuba: A traditional Japanese dish made from soybeans, yuba is a type of tofu skin that is served as a appetizer or side dish.
2. Nikko Wagyu: Nikko Wagyu is a particular type of beef that comes from Yamizo, a town near Nikko. It is known for its excellent marbling and tender texture.
3. Imo-ningyo: A popular sweet treat in Nikko, Imo-ningyo is a type of candy made from sweet potato paste that is shaped like a fish.
4. Yumoto Onsen Manju: These Japanese steamed buns are filled with a sweet red bean paste and are a popular snack in the Yumoto Onsen area of Nikko.
5. Oyaki: A type of dumpling that is filled with various ingredients such as vegetables and mushrooms. It's a perfect snack to have while hiking in the Nikko mountains.
6. Kuzuyaki: A traditional Japanese dessert, kuzuyaki is made from kudzu root starch and is served with sweet syrup. It's a popular winter treat in Nikko.
7. Shojin Ryori: A type of vegetarian cuisine that originated from Buddhist traditions, Shojin Ryori is served in many restaurants in Nikko and is known for its simplicity and use of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
8. Mochi: A Japanese sweet made from glutinous rice that is pounded into a chewy and sticky ball. It is usually served with various sweet and savory fillings.
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Nikko an expensive destination for tourists?

Nikko, Japan is known to be a tourist destination, and costs can vary depending on the season and the type of activities you plan to do. Generally, it can be considered as a bit more expensive compared to other destinations in Japan. However, there are ways to keep costs down, such as visiting during the off-peak season and opting for budget accommodations and local food options. It is recommended to plan and budget accordingly to make the most of your trip to Nikko.

Where to find accomodation in Nikko

There are several areas where you can find accommodation to visit Nikko, Japan. However, the most convenient areas are: 1. Nikko Station Area: This area is located near the train station and is easily accessible by public transportation. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels and Ryokans.
2. Kinugawa Onsen Area: This area is known for its hot springs and scenic views of the Kinugawa River. It is located about 15 minutes away from Nikko by train and offers various accommodation options, including Ryokans and hotels.
3. Lake Chuzenji Area: This area is located about 20 kilometers from Nikko and is known for its natural beauty. It offers various accommodation options, including hotels and Japanese style Ryokans.
Overall, the best areas to find accommodation in Nikko depend on your travel preferences and the sites you plan to visit.
You can check hotel prices at Nikko here:
Booking.com

Is Nikko a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Nikko is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Crime rates are low in this area, and people are generally very friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, as with any place you travel to, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure your safety. This includes keeping an eye on your belongings, being cautious of scams or theft, and avoiding any unsafe or sketchy areas at night. Overall, Nikko is a wonderful destination for those interested in experiencing the natural beauty and cultural landmarks of Japan in a peaceful and safe environment.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Nikko.

What type of travelers will enjoy Nikko the most?

Nikko, Japan is a destination that appeals to a variety of travelers due to its combination of stunning natural beauty and historical significance. Couples will enjoy the romantic atmosphere of Nikko, with stunning landscapes, hot springs, and picturesque shrines and temples, as well as a variety of dining options.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the natural beauty of the area, as well as the lively nightlife scene.
Families will also enjoy the beauty and history of Nikko, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural experiences that will appeal to all ages. The area is home to several theme parks, including the Tobu World Square, an impressive miniature park featuring some of the world's most iconic landmarks.
Overall, Nikko has something for everyone and is a great destination for couples, young people, and families alike.

How to get around Nikko

In Nikko, you can use various modes of transportation to get around such as buses, taxis, bicycles, and trains. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation, and they are convenient for moving around the main tourist attractions within the city. Taxis are also available but can be quite expensive. You can also rent a bicycle or use a bike-sharing service to explore the city at your own pace. Additionally, if you plan to visit nearby areas, you can utilize the Tobu Railway service which connects Nikko to other cities and towns in the region.

What to see around Nikko

Here are some nice places you could visit in a day trip from Nikko, Japan: 1. Lake Chuzenji: This lake is located just a short distance from Nikko and is famous for its beautiful scenery.
2. Kegon Falls: This waterfall is one of Japan's most famous and is located near Lake Chuzenji.
3. Edo Wonderland: This theme park is located in Nikko and is a great place to experience Japan's Edo period.
4. Yunishigawa Onsen: This hot spring resort is known for its natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere.
5. Kinugawa Onsen: This hot spring town features many traditional Japanese inns and is a popular destination for relaxation.
6. Nikko National Park: This national park is home to many beautiful hiking trails and scenic views.
7. Irohazaka Winding Road: This famous roadway features 48 hairpin turns and is a popular destination for driving enthusiasts.
I hope this helps and happy travels!
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