Nikko
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Our most recommended things to do in Nikko

From Tokyo: Nikko, Toshogu Shrine, Waterfall & Chūzenji Lake

From Tokyo: Nikko, Toshogu Shrine, Waterfall & Chūzenji Lake

The day begins in the dynamic neighborhood of Ginza, where travelers step aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned coach and set off from the lively streets of Tokyo. As the cityscape gives way to expansive greenery and mountain roads, a sense of calm and anticipation begins to grow—ushering in a day of discovery in the enchanting region of Nikko. The first encounter with Nikko’s sacred atmosphere comes with a sweeping view of the Shinkyo Bridge. This deep red, gracefully curved structure stretches across the Daiya River and serves as a symbolic threshold to the spiritual heart of the area. Its presence against the natural backdrop offers a perfect balance of man-made beauty and natural serenity. The journey continues with a visit to the celebrated Toshogu Shrine, a marvel of artistry and history nestled within a majestic cedar forest. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its ornate decorations, vibrant gold accents, and the famous trio of wise monkeys that embody a traditional proverb. As guests move through the richly decorated gates and sacred walkways, they are invited to experience the atmosphere of reverence and power that once surrounded the Tokugawa shogunate. Following this cultural immersion, the tour ventures deeper into the mountains to witness one of Japan’s most striking natural wonders—Kegon Falls. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and seasonal hues, the nearly 100-meter cascade crashes into the valley below, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle and a moment of peaceful connection with nature. (If weather conditions result in road closures, the visit to Kegon Falls will be replaced by a stop at Rinnoji Temple, another landmark steeped in spiritual significance.) The exploration continues at the tranquil Lake Chuzenji, nestled at the base of Mount Nantai. This alpine lake, born from volcanic activity, offers a serene setting surrounded by forested hills and misty vistas—an ideal place to pause and absorb the natural beauty of the region. As the sun begins to descend, the return trip to Tokyo commences. Travelers head back to the capital with a deep appreciation for Nikko’s harmonious blend of cultural legacy and breathtaking landscapes—an unforgettable retreat into Japan’s spiritual and natural soul.

Tokyo: Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Waterfall Tour

Tokyo: Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Waterfall Tour

After meeting at 7:50AM, your tour leader will greet you at the ground floor of the Shinjuku Subaru Building next to the Shinjuku JR Station west exit. At 8:00AM, you will depart from Shinjuku to Tochigi prefecture, where Nikko City is located. At around 10:30AM, you will travel to the first stop on your tour, the Nikko Toshogu Shrine. This shrine is the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled Japan for over 250 years until 1868, known as the Edo Period. You can appreciate the beauty of this shrine complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, whilst learning the interesting stories and legends of the buildings from your guide. After visiting the Nikko Toshogo Shrine, you will pass through the Iroha Slope. It is famous for its 48 sharp turns along its route, and is portrayed in the animation ”Initial D”. The road is very popular for its autumn leaves in the fall. At 12:30PM, you will arrive at the Kegon Waterfall. This almost 100-meter-tall waterfall is the most famous of Nikko's many beautiful waterfalls. It is even ranked as one of Japan's three most beautiful falls, along with the Nachi Waterfall in the Wakayama Prefecture and the Fukuroda Waterfall in the Ibaraki Prefecture. At 2:00PM, your tour will be separated into two groups, you can choose according to your preference to either walk along Lake Chuzenji, or to experience the Nikko hot spring. Before finishing your tour, you will stop by the Onihei Edo service area, which is the most interesting service area with edo style design and traditional souvenirs. At 6:00PM, you will be dropped back at the Shinjuku Subaru Building, where your tour will end.

Tokyo: Nikko Private Day Tour with English Speaking Driver

Tokyo: Nikko Private Day Tour with English Speaking Driver

Embark on a captivating day trip from Tokyo to Nikko, where ancient heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty. Our journey begins in the lush landscapes of Nikko National Park, a realm where towering cedar trees and tranquil rivers provide a serene backdrop to Japan’s stunning heritage. Marvel at the iconic Shinkyo Bridge, the sacred vermilion structure gracefully spanning the Daiya River—a gateway to the spiritual heart of Nikko. We then explore the legendary Nikko Toshogu Shrine complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that captivates with its ornate, gold-gilded architecture and intricate wood carvings. Here, history breathes through every inch of the shrine, and the spirits of the Tokugawa shoguns seem ever-present in the hallowed air. For a change of scenery, we travel to Kegon Waterfalls, one of Japan’s most stunning cascades, plunging nearly 100 meters into a rocky gorge below. The mist and rainbows here are mesmerizing, and the sound of the falls is pure tranquility. Nearby, we reach Lake Chu Zenji, nestled serenely at the foot of Mount Nantai. Reflecting Nikko’s towering peaks, this lake is a haven of peace and natural splendor, offering you a moment to absorb the essence of Japan’s wild beauty. With Japan guide Tours, each stop on this journey is woven into an unforgettable experience of nature, history, and culture.

From Tokyo: Nikko World Heritage Sight Full Day Private Tour

From Tokyo: Nikko World Heritage Sight Full Day Private Tour

Ultimate Nikko Day Tour – Luxury Sightseeing with Multilingual Driver & VIP Comfort All in One Day | Free Pick-up & Drop-off | Up to 6 Guests | From Tokyo or Nikko Ready to experience the best of Nikko in a single unforgettable day Sit back and relax in one of our luxury vehicles — Toyota Vellfire, Crown, Prado, or Lexus — as we take you through Japan’s rich history, majestic landscapes, and serene spiritual sites. From Tokyo or Nikko, your journey begins with class, comfort, and culture. What’s Included: • Free Pick-up & Drop-off – From Tokyo OR Nikko City • VIP Vehicles – Travel in luxury with our high-end fleet • ️ Multilingual Drivers & Guides – English, Japanese, Hindi & more • Photo Assistance – We help you capture every perfect moment ⸻ Full-Day Tour Itinerary Highlights: 1. Nikkō National Park – Breathe in the fresh mountain air with a scenic walk and photo break (30 min) 2. Akechidaira Ropeway – Ride the cable car to panoramic views, guided tour and sightseeing (1 hr) 3. Lake Chūzenji – Enjoy a peaceful boat cruise, lakeside walk, and coffee tasting (1 hr) 4. Kegon Falls – One of Japan’s most famous waterfalls with food tasting and photo stop (1 hr) 5. Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park – Explore peaceful gardens and historic architecture (45 min) 6. Nikko Toshogu Shrine – Visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site with detailed guided insight (1 hr) 7. Lunch Break at Local Restaurant – Enjoy regional flavors and relax (30 min) 8. Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple – Discover spiritual history with a short guided tour (30 min) 9. Shinkyo Bridge – End your day with stunning views of this iconic red bridge ⸻ ✨ Why Choose Us? • We don’t just take you places — we create memories with you • Our drivers are not only professional, but friendly, helpful, and well-versed in culture & language • Perfect for families, couples, and small groups up to 6 people • We offer flexible pickup times and tailored experiences • We’ll help you take great photos, find hidden gems, and relax while we take care of everything ⸻ Limited availability – Book your exclusive Nikko day trip today Comfort. Culture. Class. All in one day.

From Tokyo: Nikko Toshogu Day tour with Traditional Lunch

From Tokyo: Nikko Toshogu Day tour with Traditional Lunch

Experience the charm of Nikko’s Toshogu Shrine on a full-day bus tour departure from Shinjuku, Tokyo. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this stunning shrine, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors, honoring Japan’s legendary general, Tokugawa Ieyasu. Enjoy a delicious lunch dishes “Kuri Okowa Aoi Gozen”, a flavorful and savory Buddhist vegetarian dish that is sure to delight your palate with its unique tastes and textures. (The lunch menu will be adjusted based on the season or circumstances.) Then, embark on an adventure along the famous Irohazaka Winding Road, with its 48 sharp curves offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Upon reaching Lake Chuzenji, be captivated by its tranquil beauty, as its crystal-clear waters mirror the lush green mountains encircling it. Finally, be amazed by the majestic Kegon Falls, where water plunges 97 meters into the basin below. This Nikko one-day tour will be available every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Book now and discover the cultural treasures and natural wonders of Nikko on this unforgettable tour. Notice: Our tour guides can only support English, Mandarin Chinese, and Japanese. We do not offer support for other languages.

Tokyo: Nikko World Heritage Private Day Trip Hotel Pick-up

Tokyo: Nikko World Heritage Private Day Trip Hotel Pick-up

Discover the town of Nikko, a peaceful respite and one of the most iconic places to visit in the North Kanto region. See the town's most famous attractions including the Toshogu Shrine, the Shinkyo Bridge, and the Akechidaira Observation Area on a private tour with a chauffeur. Be picked up from your hotel in Tokyo and travel to Nikko. Stop at the Toshogu Shrine, the most famous sightseeing attraction in Nikko. Admire the many colorful buildings which are richly decorated with gorgeous carvings. The shrine is dedicated to the spirit of the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543 – 1616), and it is also the location of his grave. Next, visit the Shinkyo Bridge, a sacred river crossing which officially belongs to nearby Futarasan Jinja Shrine. One of Nikko’s best-known sightseeing spots, the elegant arc of this bridge crosses the Daiya-gawa River and its vermilion and black lacquer contrasts beautifully with the natural scenery about it. Continue to the Narabi Jizo, a collection of Jizo statues made in the image of Jizo Bosatsu, the guardian deity of children and travelers. They're also known as the 'earth bearer', so jizo statues are made out of stone, which is said to have a spiritual power for protection and longevity that predates Buddhist beliefs. Stop at the Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa, constructed as a retreat for Emperor Taisho. The villa incorporates the architectural styles of the late Edo (1603-1867), Meiji (1868-1912), and Taisho (1912-1926) periods. Explore the diverse buildings and beautiful gardens while getting a feel for Japanese imperial culture. Next, head to the Akechidaira Observation Deck to explore the spectacular view of Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and the scenery of Mt. Nantai. The deck is famous as a spot for viewing Nikko's splendid autumn leaves. Finally, visit Kegon Falls, located at Lake Chūzenji in Nikkō National Park near the city of Nikkō. The falls were formed when the Daiya River was rerouted by lava flows. Historically known as one of Japan's top three greatest waterfalls, Kegon Falls offers stunning views every season. End your tour at Lake Chūzenji, also called the Sea of Happiness, a scenic lake in Nikkō National Park. Created 20,000 years ago when Mount Nantai erupted and blocked the river, the lake has a surface area of 11.62 km² and a circumference of 25 km.

From Tokyo: Fully Customizable Private Nikko Tour

From Tokyo: Fully Customizable Private Nikko Tour

Escape the city and experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Japan on a private, fully customizable Nikko day tour from Tokyo. Begin your journey with a hotel pickup and travel comfortably in a private vehicle with an English-speaking driver. Visit the iconic Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its intricate carvings and vibrant architecture. Take in the stunning views of Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s most beautiful waterfalls, and relax by the serene Lake Chuzenji, nestled in the Nikko mountains. This private Nikko sightseeing tour is tailored entirely to your interests — add optional stops like Edo Wonderland, the historic Kanmangafuchi Abyss, or enjoy a peaceful lunch with a lake view. Ideal for families, couples, or friends who want to explore Nikko at their own pace.

From Tokyo: Nikko Customised Private 1 Day Sightseeing Tour

From Tokyo: Nikko Customised Private 1 Day Sightseeing Tour

Discover Nikko, a serene haven and one of the North Kanto region's most iconic destinations. Embark on a private tour with a chauffeur from Tokyo, beginning with a pick-up from your hotel. Start your journey at the renowned Toshogu Shrine, the epitome of Nikko's attractions. Marvel at its vividly adorned structures embellished with intricate carvings, dedicated to the spirit of shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543 – 1616) and his final resting place. Next, visit the sacred Shinkyo Bridge, part of the Futarasan Jinja Shrine complex. This elegant vermilion arch spans the Daiya-gawa River, blending harmoniously with the surrounding natural beauty. Explore Narabi Jizo, a cluster of statues depicting Jizo Bosatsu, guardian of children and travelers, revered for their protective qualities dating back to pre-Buddhist beliefs. Continue to the Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa, once a retreat for Emperor Taisho, showcasing architectural styles from the late Edo, Meiji, and Taisho periods. Wander through its diverse buildings and picturesque gardens, gaining insights into Japanese imperial history and culture. Ascend to the Akechidaira Observation Deck for panoramic views of Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and Mt. Nantai, particularly breathtaking during autumn's vibrant foliage. Conclude your tour at Kegon Falls, formed by volcanic activity altering the Daiya River's course. Among Japan's top three waterfalls, Kegon offers awe-inspiring vistas year-round. Finally, visit Lake Chuzenji, also known as the Sea of Happiness, a tranquil lake within Nikko National Park, shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions. With a surface area of 11.62 km² and a 25 km circumference, it provides a serene finale to your Nikko exploration. Experience the tranquility and cultural richness of Nikko on this comprehensive tour, perfect for discovering the essence of Japan's natural and historical wonders

From Tokyo: Private Nikko World Heritage Sights One Day Trip

From Tokyo: Private Nikko World Heritage Sights One Day Trip

Experience a memorable day trip from Tokyo to Nikko with Travel Royal Japan, complete with a private driver. This adventure allows you to explore some of Nikko's most iconic sites, each with a dedicated one-hour stay. Begin your journey with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Toshogu Shrine, renowned for its elaborate architecture and historical significance. Spend an hour wandering through the stunning grounds, admiring the intricate carvings and the beautiful surroundings that tell the story of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Next, make your way to the serene Lake Chūzenji. Nestled at the foot of Mount Nantai, this picturesque lake offers breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. Take an hour to stroll along the shoreline, soak in the natural beauty, and capture some stunning photographs. Your journey continues to the historic Shinkyo Bridge, an iconic red-lacquered bridge that spans the Daiya River. With an hour to appreciate this architectural marvel, you'll have ample time to learn about its significance and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding area. Finally, marvel at the majestic Kegon Falls, one of Japan's most famous waterfalls. Spend an hour taking in the powerful cascade and the lush greenery that surrounds it. Whether you choose to view the falls from the observation deck or take a closer look via the elevator, the sight is sure to leave a lasting impression. Throughout the day, enjoy the convenience and comfort of traveling with a private driver, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience as you explore these remarkable destinations.

Tokyo Nikko Toshogu Shrine Iroha-zaka Lake Chuzenji Day Tour

Tokyo Nikko Toshogu Shrine Iroha-zaka Lake Chuzenji Day Tour

**Tōshō-gū Shrine** Located in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Tōshō-gū Shrine is the main shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. Known for its gold-adorned architecture and historical significance, it features structures like the Meiyō Gate and Karamon Gate. Notable for its "Three Wise Monkeys" carving, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999. **Irohazaka Mountain Road** One of Japan's "100 Selected Roads," this 15.8 km route from Nikko City to Lake Chuzenji is famous for its 48 curves and autumnal beauty. It offers stunning views of colorful foliage and nearby landmarks like Kegon Falls. **Mashōdai Skyline Cable Car & Observation Deck** This popular Nikko lookout offers panoramic views of Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls. A short cable car ride takes visitors to the 1373-meter high observation deck. **Lake Chuzenji** Japan's highest natural lake, Lake Chuzenji, provides scenic views in every season, with spring azaleas and autumn leaves being particularly popular among photographers. **Kegon Falls** As one of Japan's three famous waterfalls, Kegon Falls stands 99 meters tall and is surrounded by autumn red leaves. It's a central attraction in Nikko National Park, offering a picturesque backdrop for photography.

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What people are saying about Nikko

Overall rating

4.4 out of 5 stars
4.4
4.4 out of 5 stars
(117 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

The Nikko Toshogu shrine is a majestic place to be. We had some free time to explore in the shrine and surrounding area, although I wished for more. We also stopped at the Kegon waterfall and chusenji lake areas for photo opportunities. Overall the tour satisfied my needs to be transported to these amazing places. The tour was bilingual in Spanish and English, but I didn’t know signing up for the tour. English was not the guide’s first language. He did share some historical background about the places we visited but probably could not compare to a local. Also, lunch options were extremely limited where we stopped, and only cash taken (again not stated in the description of the tour). There were plenty of stops made for bathroom/snack time. Overall, for the price paid, was worth the trip vs going to these places by myself in one day.

5 out of 5 stars

I found that the team organizing the excursion (Manuel, Akamato and Sophie) knew how to share their good humor to make the experience great. We had enough free time between activities to enjoy the visits (which is not the case with all guided tours). Nikko is a beautiful city and Manuel took the time to share his knowledge of the places, but also his anecdotes about Japan. Thank you again. The only points that I regret are that 1) the visit to the bridge that we see in the photo is not covered by the bus (but you can go there on foot on your free time) and 2) I would have appreciated if the guide spoke more in English (even if the majority of the group spoke Spanish). Since I understand Spanish, it was not a problem but be careful if this is not the case! Thank you again and I recommend 100%.

5 out of 5 stars

What great service and care he took us under his wing and gave us a life long memories never to forget. Waterfall was breathtaking. Ahmed took us to dinner and it was the best food we had in Tokyo.If your looking for a great trip he is the man , If we where staying longer he said there’s 4other trips to do but unfortunately we have to fly out tomorrow.

5 out of 5 stars

Driver was very nice and the trip was very good overall showed us a nice restaurant also to eat in the village

5 out of 5 stars

Well done, we had a great day! Noramuhajid was great!