Nikko is one of the best day trips from Tokyo: about two hours north by train, it has Toshogu, Japan's most richly decorated shrine, set in a forest of tall cedars, and above the town the mountain lake of Chuzenji and the Kegon Falls. A day is enough for the shrines and the lake if you start early, and an overnight stay makes it easier.
Getting there
- Tobu Railway from Asakusa — limited express trains run from Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko in about two hours. It is the most direct route, with reserved seats.
- JR via Utsunomiya — the shinkansen to Utsunomiya, then the local JR Nikko Line, in about two hours in total. Covered by the Japan Rail Pass.
Tobu sells passes that combine the train with local buses around Nikko, which are good value for a full day.
Morning: the shrines
Walk or take the bus from the station to the Shinkyo bridge, the red bridge over the Daiya River at the entrance to the shrine area. Uphill, the main sites stand close together among the cedars:
- Toshogu — the shrine of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the shogunate that ruled Japan for more than 250 years, covered in carving, gold leaf and colour. Look for the three wise monkeys and the sleeping cat.
- Rinno-ji — a large Buddhist temple with a hall of three giant gilded statues.
- Futarasan Shrine — a quieter shrine dedicated to the mountains around Nikko.
Allow at least two to three hours here.
Afternoon: Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls
Buses climb the Irohazaka road, with its many hairpin bends, to Lake Chuzenji in about forty-five minutes. Kegon Falls, close to the bus stop, drops almost 100 metres; a lift takes you down to a viewing platform at its foot. Walk along the lakeshore or take a boat before heading back down.
Tips
- Start early. Leave Tokyo by 8:00 to see both the shrines and the lake.
- Autumn traffic. In mid to late October the leaves around the lake are at their best, and the road up can be jammed. Allow extra time, or visit the lake first thing.
- Try yuba. The local speciality is tofu skin, served in many restaurants near the shrines.
- Stay a night. Kinugawa Onsen, a hot-spring town nearby, or a hotel by the lake turns a long day into an easy one.
More ideas are in our guide to day trips from Tokyo, and our 3-day Tokyo itinerary shows where Nikko fits.
FAQ
Is Nikko worth a day trip from Tokyo? Yes. The shrines are among the most impressive in Japan, and the lake and falls add mountain scenery. Start early to see both.
How long does it take from Tokyo to Nikko? About two hours, by Tobu limited express from Asakusa or by shinkansen and local train via Utsunomiya.
Does the Japan Rail Pass cover Nikko? Yes, on the JR route via Utsunomiya. Tobu trains from Asakusa are not covered.
When is the best time to visit Nikko? Autumn, from early October at the lake to early November in the town, is the most popular. Spring and early summer are greener and quieter.
Planning a Nikko day trip for yourself, your family or your clients? Write to b2b@explera.jp or message us on WhatsApp at +66 93 656 8090 with your dates and group size, and we will reply within 24 hours. Explera is a destination management company for Japan — IATA TIDS 96215733, ASTA member 900408341.
