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Quick Travel Guide to Nikko

November 29, 2018

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Nikko is an amazing historic town within easy reach by train from Tokyo. Toshogu Shrine is the most lavish shrine in all of Japan. Nikko also has beautiful lakes and hot springs nearby, where you can experience a genuine Japanese Onsen (Hot Bath). Before your Japanese adventure begins, why not check out this Quick Travel Guide to Nikko.

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Things to Do in Nikko

The Shrines and temples of Nikko are so culturally important that they have made it onto the UNESCO Work Heritage list. The most important shrines and temples date back to the 17th century and are in beautiful natural surroundings. Nikko sightseeing is actually very easy, because there is such a high number of attractions within easy reach.

Tosho-gu Shrine: This is complex of a dozen buildings dating back to the 1600’s. The complex is set on a mountain in a lush forest, such that the walk to the Nikko Toshogu Shrine is half the fun. This is one of the most important shrines in all of Japan, and is part of the Nikko World Heritage listing for Nikko Shrines and Monuments.

Iemitsu Mausoleum (Taiyuinbyo): A short walk from the Tosho-gu Shrine, this is the mausoleum of a famous Shogun.

Rinnoji Temple: The most important temple in Nikko, Rinnoji Temple was founded in the 8th century by the Buddhist Monk who introduced Buddism to this area.

Kammangafuchi Abyss: This is my favourite of all Nikko attractions, a pleasant riverside walking trail which takes 2-3 hours. Along the walk you will pass by a line of 70 ancient statues, with the hills of Nikko as a backdrop.

Shinkyo Bridge: Ranked as one of Japan’s 3 finest bridges, this magnificent Nikko bridge was built in 1636. Best of all it’s easy accessible from the centre of town.

Day Trips from Nikko

If you have some more time up your sleeve, there are many more amazing Nikko attractions accessible by a day trip. The bus network in this area is excellent, so it is inexpensive and easy to catch a bus to any of these locations.

Lake Chuzenzi: A scenic lake in the mountains above Nikko. It’s easy to catch a public bus there from Nikko. Once there, you will find a 25km walking trail around the lake with various waterfalls, Onsen, restaurants and embassy villas along the way. You can also take sightseeing boat cruises on the lake in high season.
Kegon Falls: Nikko’s most famous waterfall, located near Lake Chuzenji. The falls are a towering 100m high, and even have a 100m deep elevator to a viewing platform half way down.

Where to Stay in Nikko

Most of the best Nikko accommodation is located along Lake Chuzenzi road, between Nikko station and the Botanical gardens. This is a convenient location as you get off the Tokyo to Nikko train, and is close to all the famous Nikko World Heritage sites. It’s also a convenient place to catch the Nikko bus for day tours in surrounding areas.

Bed and Breakfast

We found a beautiful Bed and Breakfast in Nikko. If ever we were to give 10 out of 10 for our accommodation, this is it. The host is amazing, offering the best service we have ever experienced. The breakfasts are sensational home cooked extravaganzas. And there are a couple of authentic Japanese baths out the back, which are complimentary to guests. Check out Nikko Akarinoyado Villa Revage, and book yourself a room!

Mid Range Accommodation

The 3 star Nikko Tokinoyuu Hotel is still fairly new, build in 2010. It’s affordable and in a great location, around 7 minutes walk to the major Nikko World Heritage attractions. And it’s on the main road so getting a bus to Lake Chuzenji will be easy.

Affordable Luxury

5 star Nikko Kanaya Hotel is the oldest Resort Hotel in town, established in 1893. This hotel is in a premium location, just a couple of minutes walk from the famous Shinkyo Bridge. It is an 8 minute walk to the biggest attraction in town, the Nikko Toshogu.