One Day Trip to Nikko from Tokyo: A Complete Itinerary for World Heritage Sites and Natural Wonders

itinerary Published: Nov 18, 2024

As someone born and raised in Tokyo, Nikko holds a special place in my heart. It's a world apart from the bustling trains and crowds, just a 2-hour journey away.

Nikko is the home of Nikko Gongen, a deity worshipped by Tokyo's samurai. The road connecting Tokyo and Nikko has been well-maintained since ancient times, showing the strong connection between the two places.

I can still vividly recall my childhood memories of visiting Nikko with my family. I was captivated by the colorful shrines of Toshogu, and there was an exciting treasure hunt-like feeling in searching for the three wise monkeys and the sleeping cat. The magnificent scenery around Lake Chuzenji also left a lasting impression. Even now, as an adult, those emotions resurface every time I visit Nikko.

Nikko's charm lies in the beauty of nature that changes with the seasons. You can fully experience the transitions of the four seasons that are rarely seen in Tokyo - fresh greenery, autumn colors, and snow-covered landscapes. The World Heritage shrines and temples allow you to sense Japan's history and aesthetics, making it a treasure trove for a history enthusiast like me.

If time allows, I'd recommend visiting the hot springs that can be enjoyed even on a one day trip. The view of the valley from an open-air bath is something you can never experience in Tokyo.

In this guide, I'll introduce an itinerary I've perfected over years of experience to efficiently enjoy Nikko in one day. From the overwhelming presence of the gold-leafed Toshogu Shrine to the mystical Lake Chuzenji shrouded in mist, I'll convey all of Nikko's charms.

Now, let's embark on a short trip to Nikko, where rich history and nature intertwine!

Table of Contents
The Charm of Nikko: A World Heritage Site Where History and Nature Intertwine
How to Access Nikko from Tokyo
Nikko Zone Map
One Day Trip Itinerary from Tokyo to Nikko
Other Places to Visit in Nikko

The Charm of Nikko: A World Heritage Site Where History and Nature Intertwine

Nikko

Nikko is a place where history and nature harmonize beautifully.

First, the center of Nikko's historical charm is undoubtedly the group of shrines and temples registered as World Heritage Sites. Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Shrine overwhelm visitors with their magnificent architectural styles.

In particular, the Yomeimon Gate of Toshogu Shrine is called the "Twilight Gate," as it's said that one could gaze at its beauty until sunset. Even after visiting many times, I'm still captivated by its intricate carvings and vivid colors.

In terms of nature, Lake Chuzenji and Irohazaka are noteworthy. Lake Chuzenji shows different faces in each season, offering new discoveries with every visit - fresh greenery in spring, cool lake surface in summer, autumn colors, and snow scenes in winter.

Irohazaka is a road with 48 curves, ascending about 400 meters in altitude when driving up. I still can't forget the breathtaking view I saw when I first went up this slope.

Nikko's charm extends to its cuisine as well. I highly recommend trying local specialties like yuba and Nikko soba. Especially, dishes using tofu and yuba are exquisite, created from Nikko's pure water. I look forward to enjoying these dishes every time I visit.

Best Seasons to Visit Nikko

Nikko in Autumn

While Nikko is beautiful in all four seasons, I especially recommend autumn and winter.

Nikko in autumn is a series of spectacular views. During the fall foliage season, the mountains are dyed in red and yellow. What I particularly love is the autumn colors around Lake Chuzenji. The colorful mountains reflected on the lake surface are breathtakingly beautiful.

However, Nikko in autumn is very crowded with Japanese tourists. It's especially packed on weekends. If you come by car, you're likely to get caught in heavy traffic jams, so I recommend traveling by train.

Nikko in winter is also attractive. You can enjoy authentic snow scenes that are rarely seen in Tokyo. Toshogu Shrine covered in snow has a different kind of solemnity compared to other seasons.

Another attraction of Nikko in winter is the hot springs. Warming your chilled body in a hot spring is the ultimate luxury. Bathing in an open-air bath while viewing the snowy landscape is an exceptional experience you can't have in the city.

Enjoy the spectacular autumn colors in fall and the snowy scenery with hot springs in winter. Both seasons are filled with Nikko's unique charms. I encourage you to visit Nikko in autumn and winter to experience its beauty firsthand.

How to Access Nikko from Tokyo

Access from Tokyo to Nikko is easier and more convenient than you might think. Based on my experience, I'll introduce the recommended access methods.

First, I highly recommend the Tobu Railway limited express "Spacia X". It arrives in Nikko in about 2 hours from Asakusa. What I particularly like about this train is its comfort and the scenery from the windows. The facilities on board are also excellent, allowing you to relax from the start of your journey.

Express buses are also a convenient option. They arrive in Nikko in about 3 hours from Tokyo Station.

If you're going by car, it takes about 3 hours via the Kan-etsu Expressway and Nikko-Utsunomiya Road. I sometimes use a rental car, and the freedom to move at your own pace is attractive. It's especially convenient if you want to explore a wide area including the surroundings of Nikko.

There are also numerous group tour bus options for day trips. I recommend this option for first-time visitors to Nikko or those who want to tour efficiently.

Nikko Zone Map

Nikko has various attractive spots spread across a vast area. Here, I'll introduce the characteristics and charms of Nikko's main areas divided into six zones.

By knowing these zones, you can plan a more efficient and fulfilling Nikko trip.



1: Nikko Station Area

Nikko Station

The Nikko Station area is an important place that serves as the gateway for many travelers visiting Nikko. JR Nikko Station and Tobu Nikko Station are adjacent, making it a transportation hub. Whenever I visit Nikko, I always pass through this area.

The charm of this area lies in its convenience and liveliness. Many souvenir shops and restaurants line the area in front of the station, allowing you to easily enjoy Nikko's specialties and local cuisine.

It's also conveniently located, about a 30-minute walk or a 10-minute bus ride to Nikko Toshogu Shrine. If you have time to spare, I recommend walking there.

2: World Heritage Area

Nikko Toshogu Gate

The World Heritage area is the soul of Nikko. Here, Nikko's main tourist attractions are concentrated, making it a treasure trove of history and culture. For me, this area is a special place where I can feel the essence of Nikko.

The centerpiece of this area is, without a doubt, the three shrines and temples: Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Shrine. These are registered as World Heritage Sites under the name "Shrines and Temples of Nikko," and their value is internationally recognized.

I still remember the shock I felt when I first visited this area. The group of buildings decorated with gold leaf and vibrant colors was breathtakingly beautiful.

Toshogu Shrine is particularly impressive, with its lavish decorations overwhelming visitors. The intricate carvings of the Yomeimon Gate, famous sculptures like the three wise monkeys and the sleeping cat, and the elegant figure of the five-story pagoda. When you see these, you can't help but be amazed at the high level of craftsmanship of the Edo period artisans.

The famous Shinkyo Bridge is also in this area. The red bridge spanning the gorge is as beautiful as a painting and is a popular photo spot for many tourists.

One of the attractions of the World Heritage area is that you can tour it on foot. As you walk along the stone-paved approach, looking at the surrounding cedar trees and breathing in the pure air, you feel as if you've gone back in time. Every time I walk on these stone pavements, I feel a strange emotion thinking that people hundreds of years ago walked the same path.

The beauty of this area is particularly striking during the autumn foliage season. The contrast between the golden roofs of the shrines and temples and the red and yellow trees is breathtaking. I make sure to visit here every year during the autumn foliage season. Its beauty is beyond words, and it's truly a moment when you can feel the essence of Japanese autumn.

3: Lake Chuzenji and Oku-Nikko Area

Lake Chuzenji

The Lake Chuzenji and Oku-Nikko area is where you can feel Nikko's natural beauty the most.

To get to this area, you go up the famous Irohazaka road. This road with 48 curves can be a bit challenging to drive, but the sense of achievement when you reach the top is exceptional.

Lake Chuzenji is a crater lake formed by the eruption of Mount Nantai. Its beauty is beyond words. The lake surface shimmering in the morning sun, the shadows of the mountains reflected on the lake at dusk, and the frozen lake surface in winter. No matter which season you visit, its beauty will captivate your heart.

As a natural scenic spot, Kegon Falls is particularly impressive. The water spray falling with a thunderous sound from a height of 97 meters is spectacular, allowing you to physically feel the power of nature. Every time, I take the elevator down to the basin to view the waterfall up close, and each time I'm overwhelmed by the grandeur of nature.

4: Kinugawa and Kawaji Onsen Area

Kinugawa Onsen

The Kinugawa and Kawaji Onsen area is a hot spring resort located in the eastern part of Nikko City. For me, it's a special place that provides healing and vitality. The charm of this area lies in the fusion of rich nature, hot springs, and various activities.

Kinugawa Onsen is known as a lively hot spring town with large hotels and inns lined up. When I first visited here, I was surprised by its scale. Just walking through the hot spring town is enjoyable, with people in yukata (light cotton kimono) going back and forth, creating a festive atmosphere.

The quality of the hot springs is also wonderful, especially the view of the Kinugawa Gorge from the open-air baths is exceptional.

The charm of this area is not just the hot springs. The Kinugawa Line Descent is one of the representative outdoor activities in the area. The thrilling experience of going down the rapids of the Kinugawa River is heart-pounding. I experienced it once, and the sensation of going down the river while closely viewing the steep cliffs on both sides was indescribably exhilarating.

Kawaji Onsen is a smaller and quieter hot spring town compared to Kinugawa Onsen. I recommend this for those seeking a calm atmosphere. When I'm tired from work and want to spend time quietly, I choose this place. Soaking in the hot spring while listening to the murmur of the river, I can feel the daily fatigue melting away.

5: Yunishigawa, Kawamata, and Oku-Kinugawa Onsen Area

Yunishigawa in Winter

The Yunishigawa, Kawamata, and Oku-Kinugawa Onsen area is a quiet hot spring area located in the northernmost part of Nikko City.

The greatest charm of this area is the presence of hot springs with a secluded atmosphere scattered around. Each of Yunishigawa Onsen, Kawamata Onsen, and Oku-Kinugawa Onsen has its own unique appeal.

When I first visited this area, I was overwhelmed by its quietness and the richness of nature. As you soak in the hot spring while viewing the surrounding mountains and valleys, you feel as if time has stopped.

What's particularly impressive is the beauty of the gorge and mountain scenery. Many of the hot spring inns are located along the gorge, allowing you to enjoy beautiful views from your room or the open-air bath. My favorite is soaking in the open-air bath at dusk. The sight of the mountains dyed by the setting sun and the mist rising in the valley is breathtakingly beautiful.

This area is also ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking. There are many hiking courses in the surrounding area where you can enjoy nature changing with the seasons.

However, to enjoy the charms of this area, you need to be a bit prepared. Access is relatively inconvenient, and it takes time to move around using public transportation.

6: Imaichi Area

Nikko Imaichi

This area, which once flourished as a post town on the old Nikko Highway, still lives on as the living area for local people.

The charm of this area lies first and foremost in its historical background. During the Edo period, Imaichi prospered as a post town. Even now, old townscapes and historical buildings remain, allowing you to feel the atmosphere of that time just by walking around.

One of the charms of Imaichi is that you can glimpse the daily lives of local people. As it's not overly touristicized, you can see the unpretentious face of a Japanese provincial city.

One Day Trip Itinerary from Tokyo to Nikko

Nikko has so many attractive spots that it's impossible to cover them all in one day. However, with proper planning, you can fully enjoy Nikko's charms even on a day trip.

Here, based on my experience, I'll introduce a one-day itinerary to efficiently enjoy Nikko's charms.

AM 7:00-9:30 Travel from Tokyo to Nikko

Spacia X

The journey to Nikko starts with an early rise. Every time, I feel excited about this early morning departure. Even while rubbing my sleepy eyes, my heart leaps with anticipation for the adventure that's about to begin.

First, gather at Asakusa Station and board the Tobu Railway limited express "Spacia X". This train is my favorite for its comfort and great views. You can enjoy the gradually changing scenery from the large windows.

Upon arrival at Tobu Nikko Station, take the "World Heritage Tour Bus" to Shinkyo Bridge. This bus is ideal for day trips with time constraints as it efficiently covers Nikko's main tourist spots. From the bus, you can enjoy views of Nikko's townscape and surrounding mountains.



AM 9:30-12:00 Tour the World Heritage Area of Nikko

The World Heritage area is the core of Nikko sightseeing. Here, you can experience Nikko's history and culture.

AM 9:30-10:00 Visit Shinkyo Bridge

Nikko Shinkyo Bridge

Shinkyo Bridge is an iconic presence in Nikko tourism. Its elegant vermilion form harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding nature, creating a picturesque scenery. When I first saw this bridge, I was breathless at its beauty.

I recommend enjoying the view from the bridge. The view looking down on the gorge is spectacular, allowing you to feel the power of nature. Especially, the figure of Shinkyo Bridge emerging from the morning mist is mystical, making you want to snap a photo.

Don't forget to take a commemorative photo at the photo spot overlooking the bridge. I always take a photo here to commemorate the start of my Nikko trip. A photo with Shinkyo Bridge in the background becomes a wonderful souvenir that vividly recalls memories of Nikko.



AM 10:00-11:30 Visit Toshogu Shrine

Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Toshogu Shrine is the most impressive place in Nikko. Its lavish decorations and solemn atmosphere overwhelm visitors. I still vividly remember being at a loss for words at its beauty and grandeur when I first visited Toshogu Shrine.

First, I recommend appreciating the carvings of Yomeimon Gate. This gate, also called the "Twilight Gate," is said to be so beautiful that you could lose track of time looking at it until sunset.

Every time, I stop in front of this gate and carefully observe the details. You can feel the craftsmen's skills and thoughts put into each carving of animals and flowers.

Next, explore famous sculptures like the three wise monkeys, the sleeping cat, and the imaginary elephant. These sculptures are not mere decorations but contain deep meanings and lessons.

I particularly like the sculpture of the three wise monkeys - "see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil". Its cuteness and the life lessons it contains always make me ponder.

The five-story pagoda is also a must-see. Its elegant figure symbolizes the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture. The combination of decorations and colors on each layer of the tower is exquisite, making you feel like you're seeing the crystallization of Japanese aesthetics.

The 1 hour and 30 minutes at Toshogu Shrine is a precious time to experience the essence of Japanese history and art. By not just viewing but stopping at each place to reflect on its meaning and historical background, you can have a deeper experience.

Website: https://www.toshogu.jp/



AM 11:30-PM 12:00 Visit Futarasan Shrine

Futarasan Shrine

Futarasan Shrine has a serene atmosphere in contrast to Toshogu Shrine. I love the calm presence of this shrine, and every time I visit, I feel like my heart is being cleansed.

First, worship at the magnificent red main hall. It has a solemn atmosphere different from the splendor of Toshogu Shrine.

Although it's a short 30 minutes, at Futarasan Shrine you can fully feel a different charm of Nikko compared to Toshogu Shrine.

Website: http://www.futarasan.jp/



PM 12:00-2:00 Lunch and Move to Lake Chuzenji

PM 12:00-1:00 Lunch Around Nikko Station

JR Nikko Station

Lunch around Nikko Station is an important time to heal your body tired from the morning sightseeing and gather energy for the afternoon itinerary.

I recommend enjoying the local specialty yuba dishes. Yuba, made with Nikko's pure water, has an exquisite delicate taste.

Nikko soba is another must-try specialty. The aroma and smooth texture of the soba noodles remind you of Nikko's crisp air and clear water.

This time is also ideal for reflecting on the morning's sightseeing and confirming the afternoon's plans. I often look back at the photos I've taken and recall the emotions I felt at the places I visited while eating.



PM 1:00-2:00 Bus Ride to Lake Chuzenji

Take the bus bound for "Yumoto Onsen" from Nikko Station and get off at Chuzenji Onsen. This one-hour bus ride is not just a travel time but a wonderful opportunity to enjoy Nikko's natural beauty.

By the time the bus arrives at Chuzenji Onsen, you'll notice that the surrounding scenery has completely changed. A lakeside landscape surrounded by rich forests spreads out, making you feel as if you've come to a different world. My heart always leaps at this moment.

PM 2:00-4:00 Enjoy the Nature Around Lake Chuzenji

PM 2:00-3:00 Stroll Around Lake Chuzenji

Lake Chuzenji in Autumn

The one hour at Lake Chuzenji is a precious time to feel Nikko's natural beauty up close. For me, this time by the lake is one of the highlights of my Nikko trip, and I feel moved every time I visit.

First, I recommend slowly walking along the lakeside promenade. The promenade is well-maintained but still retains a natural atmosphere, and just walking makes you feel healed. I particularly like looking at the sky and mountains reflected on the water surface.

The lakeside scenery that changes with the seasons is also attractive. You can enjoy the beauty of each season - fresh greenery in spring, deep green in summer, autumn colors in fall, and snow scenes in winter. My favorite is the autumn foliage season, where the colorful autumn leaves reflected on the lake surface are truly spectacular.

Also, don't miss visiting the Italian Embassy Villa Memorial Park. This Western-style building, built nearly 100 years ago, creates a unique atmosphere where Western architecture harmonizes beautifully with Japanese nature. I especially like the garden here.



PM 3:00-4:00 Visit Kegon Falls

Kegon Waterfalls

This waterfall with a 97-meter drop continues to fascinate visitors with its power and beauty. For me, visiting Kegon Falls is always an exciting experience and I feel it's a fitting place to conclude a Nikko trip.

First, I recommend viewing the waterfall from the observation deck. The view from the observation deck is spectacular, and you can't help but hold your breath at the grandeur of the water spray falling with a thunderous sound.

Next, I strongly recommend taking the elevator down to the waterfall basin. The elevator ride itself, descending nearly 100 meters underground, is thrilling, but the real excitement comes after arriving at the waterfall basin.

Looking up at the waterfall up close has a completely different impact than from the observation deck. Every time, I feel the power of nature throughout my body while being sprayed by the mist.

The changing expressions of the waterfall with the seasons is also a highlight. In spring, it harmonizes with the surrounding fresh greenery; in summer, it increases in power with abundant water volume; in autumn, it creates a colorful landscape together with the autumn leaves; and in winter, it shows a fantastic figure with partial freezing.

I particularly like Kegon Falls in the autumn foliage season, where the contrast between the red and yellow trees and the white water spray of the waterfall is breathtakingly beautiful.

The one hour at Kegon Falls will be a time of excitement and healing, fitting for the conclusion of your Nikko trip.



PM 4:00-7:00 Return Journey

PM 4:00-5:00 Return to Tobu Nikko Station

It's time to conclude the wonderful day in Nikko and start the return journey to Tokyo. The one-hour bus ride from Chuzenji Onsen bus stop to Nikko Station will be a time to enjoy the afterglow of the trip and reflect on your experiences in Nikko.

PM 5:00-7:00 Depart for Tokyo

Board the 5:00 PM limited express "Spacia" and start your return journey to Tokyo. This two-hour train ride is also an important part of your Nikko trip. Relax in the comfortable seats, gaze at the scenery outside the window, and take time to reflect on your fulfilling day.

Other Places to Visit in Nikko

Nikko has many attractive spots besides the main tourist attractions. By visiting these places according to your time and interests, you can experience Nikko's charms more deeply and from multiple angles.

Here, I'll introduce some of my favorite spots.

Spots to Enjoy Nature

Senjogahara Marshland

Senjogahara

Senjogahara is a vast marshland boasting particularly beautiful scenery within Nikko National Park.

The spectacular view of the vast marshland and surrounding mountains is breathtakingly beautiful. Especially, the sight of the marshland emerging from the morning mist is mystical, making you feel as if you've wandered into another world.

The marshland at dusk is also exceptional. As the setting sun illuminates the marshland, it's dyed in orange and purple hues, creating a fantastical atmosphere. I've watched the sunset here several times, and each time I'm moved by the beauty of nature.



Ryuzu Falls

Ryuzu Falls

Ryuzu Falls is a beautiful waterfall located at the source of the Yukawa River, the only river flowing out of Lake Chuzenji. When I first visited this waterfall, I was overwhelmed by the power of the water falling with a thunderous sound and its shape resembling a "dragon's head," which is the origin of its name.

The greatest charm of this waterfall is its unique shape consisting of two-stage falls. The upper falls are about 30 meters wide and 20 meters high, while the lower falls are about 50 meters wide and 10 meters high, each showing a different expression. I always admire the sculptural beauty created by nature as I compare these two-stage falls.



Spots to Feel History

Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park

Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa

Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park is a special place where you can deeply feel Nikko's history and culture.

This imperial villa was built as a retreat for the imperial family during the Meiji era. The luxurious architectural style that gathered the essence of Japanese architecture is simply magnificent.

What particularly impressed me was the fusion of Japanese and Western interiors. The skillful blend of Japanese and Western-style rooms shows how Japan was incorporating Western culture while valuing tradition at that time.

The garden is another charm not to be missed. The Japanese garden where you can enjoy flowers and autumn colors in each season is very beautiful.



Rinnoji Temple

Rinnoji Temple

Rinnoji Temple, as one of the three shrines and temples in Nikko, is a central presence in Nikko's history and culture.

The main attraction of Rinnoji Temple is the Three Buddha Hall, which is a national treasure. Inside this hall, three giant Buddha statues, each about 7.5 meters tall, are enshrined.

When I first saw these Buddha statues, I was breathless at their overwhelming presence. Especially, the compassionate expression of the central Yakushi Nyorai statue is impressive. When I gaze at it for a long time, I feel my heart becoming strangely calm.

Website: https://www.rinnoji.or.jp/en/



Experience-based Spots

Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura

Edo Wonderland Nikko
Source: Google Map by key ady

Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura is an attractive theme park where you can experience as if you've time-slipped. When I first visited here, I was fascinated by the realistic townscape of the Edo period and was completely drawn into the world of Edo.

First, a big attraction is that you can walk around the town wearing Edo period costumes. I once tried walking around in a kimono, and from that moment, I was enveloped in a strange sensation as if I had time-slipped to the Edo period.

The ninja and samurai shows are not to be missed. The powerful sword fighting and the graceful movements of the ninja fascinate both adults and children.

There are also plenty of activities such as shuriken throwing and archery experiences. These experiences are not just play but valuable opportunities to physically feel the martial arts of the Edo period. I also tried shuriken throwing, but it was more difficult than I thought, and I was once again impressed by the high skill level of the ninja of that time.

Website: https://edowonderland.net/en/



Kinugawa Line Descent

Kinugawa Ship

The Kinugawa Line Descent is an activity where you can experience Nikko's nature most closely and dynamically.

When I first experienced this river descent, I was captivated by its power and beauty, and once again realized the charm of Nikko's nature.

This experience of going down the rapids of the Kinugawa River is truly exciting. You feel your heart racing as the boat goes over the waves and you're splashed with water.

However, the charm of the Kinugawa Line Descent is not just the thrill. Being able to closely view the steep cliffs and oddly shaped rocks on both banks is also the essence of this experience.

Also, the changing scenery of the gorge with the seasons is a big attraction of the Kinugawa Line Descent. You can enjoy the beauty of each season - fresh greenery in spring, deep green in summer, autumn colors in fall, and snow scenes in winter.

Website: https://linekudari.com/



Recommended Accommodation for Overnight Stays

To fully enjoy Nikko, I recommend staying overnight rather than a day trip. Kinugawa Onsen and Nikko Yumoto Onsen are especially recommended as accommodation areas.

Kinugawa Onsen

Kinugawa Onsen Station

Kinugawa Onsen is known as the largest hot spring town in the Nikko area and continues to attract many people with its abundant hot spring water and excellent spring quality.

The greatest charm of this hot spring is undoubtedly the view of the Kinugawa Gorge from the open-air baths. As you soak in the bath while viewing this scenery, you'll feel completely released from the hustle and bustle of daily life and relaxed in both body and mind.

The atmosphere of the hot spring town is also one of the charms of Kinugawa Onsen. Various accommodation facilities, from large hotels to small inns, line up, each offering unique hot springs.

It's also a pleasant point that there are numerous day-trip bathing facilities. You can drop by and enjoy the hot springs as a conclusion to your Nikko sightseeing.



Nikko Yumoto Onsen

Nikko Yumoto Onsen in Winter

Nikko Yumoto Onsen is known as a quiet hot spring town located in Oku-Nikko, characterized by its calm atmosphere and rich natural environment.

The greatest charm of this hot spring is undoubtedly its location. Situated at an altitude of about 1,500 meters and on the shores of Lake Yunoko, you can enjoy beautiful scenery surrounded by mountains.

While day-trip bathing is possible at Nikko Yumoto Onsen, considering the convenience of access, I recommend staying for at least one night if possible. The experience of soaking in the hot spring in the quietness of the night and waking up in the morning mist is an irreplaceable luxury.




Nikko is a tourist destination with diverse attractions, from historical shrine and temple complexes to rich nature and healing hot springs.

When visiting Nikko, I recommend taking a relaxed approach. Instead of rushing through tourist spots, take your time at each location to feel the atmosphere and history of the place. By doing so, you're sure to discover deeper charms of Nikko.

While Nikko can be thoroughly enjoyed on a day trip, if your travel schedule allows, I recommend staying overnight. By staying at Kinugawa Onsen or Yumoto Onsen, you can leisurely enjoy Nikko's charms.

Using this article as a reference, I hope you'll visit Nikko and fully enjoy its diverse attractions. Through your experiences in Nikko, rediscover the wonders of Japanese culture and nature, and create memorable experiences!

Yasuhiro

I'm Yasuhiro, a founder of MagicalTrip. My hometown is Shibuya, Tokyo so I know corner to corner about Shibuya and its close areas: Roppongi, Shinjuku and Ebisu. Hope you get ideas from my articles!