Things To Do
in Nikkō
Nikkō, Japan is a picturesque town located in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, including waterfalls, lakes, and lush forests. Nikkō is also famous for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Toshogu Shrine, which is a beautifully decorated mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Visitors to Nikkō can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, hot springs, and traditional Japanese cuisine.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking Toshogu Shrine, known for its ornate carvings and vibrant colors. Spend some time exploring the tranquil surroundings and soaking in the historical significance.
Head to Lake Chuzenji, where you can enjoy a scenic boat ride or take a leisurely walk around the shoreline. Don't miss the stunning Kegon Falls nearby, known for its dramatic drop and beautiful views.
Dine at a local izakaya, where you can taste traditional Japanese dishes. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll under the stars by the lake.
Visit the Futarasan Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Nikkō, set among beautiful natural landscapes. Participate in a traditional purification ritual to start your day fresh.
Explore the Shinkyo Bridge, an iconic symbol of Nikkō, and take in the surrounding nature. Continue to visit the Rinnoji Temple, where you can admire intricate Buddhist statues.
Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner, a multi-course Japanese meal, in a ryokan. Relax in an onsen (hot spring) to unwind after a day of exploration.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Toshogu Shrine.
- Stunning natural beauty, including mountains, forests, and hot springs.
- Well-preserved historical architecture and traditional Japanese gardens.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and onsen (hot springs).
- Seasonal charm with beautiful autumn leaves and cherry blossoms.
- Limited English signage and language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, leading to a less peaceful experience.
- Accommodation can be expensive, especially during peak times.
- Public transportation options may be limited outside of major attractions.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with heavy rainfall in certain months.
Best Activities in Nikkō
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful nature trails and waterfalls in the Nikkō National Park.
Experience the stunning architecture and rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Enjoy boating, fishing, and the picturesque views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Admire the impressive twin waterfalls and surrounding natural scenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nikkō with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nikkō
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful architecture and picturesque surroundings.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the Kegon Waterfall.
A scenic, vermilion-colored bridge that offers a great vantage point for photography.
Food in Nikkō
Nikkō Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A specialty made of thinly sliced tofu skin served with soy sauce and wasabi. It can be savored at Yuba Kirin, a renowned restaurant specializing in yuba dishes.
Must-Try!
Sweet steamed buns filled with yuba paste, available at various local sweet shops such as Yuba Cafe Fujino.
These Japanese dumplings are a local favorite and can be enjoyed at Gyoza no Osho, a well-known spot in Nikkō.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nikkō better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A great place to explore various street food stalls offering takoyaki (octopus balls), taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste), and other local treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nikkō, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and behavior. It is customary to bow slightly when greeting elders as a sign of respect.
When entering traditional Japanese buildings, it is customary to remove shoes before stepping onto tatami mat floors. Visitors should follow this practice to show respect for the space and the cultural norms.
In Nikkō and throughout Japan, it is important to handle chopsticks properly and avoid behaviors such as sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this is reminiscent of funeral rituals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nikkō with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nikkō
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Nikkō, Japan. In fact, it is generally considered rude to tip in most situations. This is because good service is seen as a standard expectation rather than something that should be rewarded with extra money. If you try to tip, it may even be refused.
In Nikkō, Japan, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. While credit cards are accepted at larger hotels, restaurants, and some shops, it is always best to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller establishments or more local areas. Foreign visitors should also be aware that some places may not accept international credit cards, so having yen available is important.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nikkō.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms and azaleas, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors
Warm and humid weather, with occasional rain showers and lush greenery
Beautiful foliage, especially in late October, with cool and comfortable temperatures
Snowfall and icy conditions, making it ideal for winter sports and enjoying hot springs
Nikkō at Night
Hiking in Nikkō
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An iconic stratovolcano and the highest peak in the Nikkō National Park, offering stunning views and a challenging hike.
A picturesque trail that features serene forests, diverse wildlife, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Although primarily known for its spectacular waterfall, the surrounding area offers hiking trails with breathtaking scenery.
A flat hiking area with boardwalks that allows for easy walking while enjoying the unique flora and fauna of the marshland.
A relatively easy hiking trail that meanders through beautiful landscapes and is suitable for both beginners and families.
Leads to the famous Toshogu Shrine, with scenic paths rich in history and culture, surrounded by towering cedar trees.
A scenic trail that takes you along the river to the beautiful Furepe Waterfall, perfect for a leisurely day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nikkō through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nikkō by plane.
Located approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Nikkō, Narita International Airport is one of the primary international gateways to Japan, serving a wide range of international flights.
Located about 160 kilometers from Nikkō, Haneda Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, primarily handling domestic flights but also a significant number of international flights.
Located approximately 300 kilometers from Nikkō, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya area and offers a good selection of international and domestic flights.
Located about 400 kilometers from Nikkō, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and is a major hub for both international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group in Nikkō, comprising the majority of the population.
Includes expatriates and migrants living in Nikkō, mainly from countries such as the United States, China, and South Korea.
Visitors from both domestic and international locations, significantly contributing to the local economy and cultural exchange.
A minority group historically connected to the region, though their presence in Nikkō is less pronounced compared to other areas in Japan.
The Soul of Nikkō
Discover the essence of Nikkō through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nikkō is known for its winter sports, particularly skiing, with several ski resorts in the nearby mountains.
The region is famous for its scenic trails and national parks, attracting hikers to explore the natural beauty.
Cycling is popular in Nikkō, especially during the warmer months when enthusiasts ride through the picturesque landscapes.
The rivers and lakes in Nikkō provide great opportunities for fishing, especially for trout.
Various outdoor sports, including rock climbing and kayaking, are enjoyed due to the region's diverse terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nikkō.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Nikkō offer vegetable-based dishes, tofu-based preparations, and vegan-friendly meals. Nikko Hachimanyu is one such establishment known for its accommodating menu.
While options specifically labeled as gluten-free may be limited, traditional Japanese cuisine tends to include rice-based dishes, sashimi, and other naturally gluten-free choices that can be found in local eateries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nikkō with these cultural adventures.