Nikko is a popular mountain village for residents of Tokyo.
Because people frequently visit it, it has also become a top tourist destination for visitors.
Every day, hundreds of tourists head to this area of Japan, where you can see one of the country’s most impressive temple complexes.
For all these reasons, if you’re in Tokyo, don’t miss a trip to Nikko—you’ll be amazed by everything you can see there.
What to see in Nikko, the city of temples?
There is so much to see in Nikko, a place rich in both cultural and natural treasures.
This area of Japan features several shrines, such as Toshogu, Futarasan, and the Rinnoji Temple. Each of these temples is historically significant and highly interesting, and they are all close to one another.
Nikko National Park is another must-see for tourists, offering a glimpse of the local wildlife and vegetation.
Amidst the mountains and lush nature, you’ll experience another side of Japan, contrasting sharply with Tokyo’s bustling shopping districts and busy streets.
To make the most of your time in Nikko, it’s best to research the attractions and highlights you can visit. In this article, you’ll find everything you need.
Toshogu Shrine
Toshogu Shrine holds immense cultural and historical significance in Japan, as it houses the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the country’s first Tokugawa shogun.
Within its grounds, you’ll find artistic expressions inspired by both Buddhism and Shintoism.
This unique blend is rare, making the shrine particularly remarkable.
Rinnoji Temple
Rinnoji Temple is located in the mountains of Nikko. Here, three large Buddhas serve as guardians in an area with significant historical importance in Japan.
In addition to drawing tourists, Rinnoji Temple is an important religious site for Japanese people.
The temple is composed of 15 Buddhist buildings, originally constructed in the year 766. It has served as a refuge for Buddhist monks ever since.
Sanbutsudo is the main hall of the temple, housing three colossal Buddhas:
- Bato-Kannon
- Senju-Kannon
- Amida Nyorai.
The final part of the temple is the Shoyo-en Garden, which includes the Homotsu-den Treasure Hall.
Futarasan Shrine
This shrine was built to honor the three sacred mountains of Nikko, known as Mount Taro, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Nantai.
A trip to Nikko to see this shrine is almost essential if you want to experience some of Japan’s finest landmarks.
The foundation of Futarasan Shrine dates back to 782, and while it may not be the oldest, it is considered among the most important due to the fusion of religions it represents.
Inside, you can admire large figures related to Shinto practices but also connected to Buddhism.
Shinkyo Bridge
Shinkyo Bridge is one of the most captivating sights in Nikko, marking the entrance to the sacred area, symbolizing the transition between the earthly and the spiritual. In Japanese, Shinkyo literally means “Bridge of the Gods.”
In fact, you must cross this bridge if you wish to enter the temple area.
Constructed entirely from local wood, the bridge was completed in 1636 as part of the Futarasan Shrine’s structures.
Its importance, unique design, and popularity have made it one of Japan’s top three bridges.
Iemitsu Mausoleum
The Iemitsu Mausoleum, also known as Taiyuinbyo, belongs to Japan’s third Tokugawa Shogun. Nearby stands the Tokugawa Ieyasu Mausoleum, his grandfather’s.
The name Taiyuinbyo was given after the third shogun’s death when he was posthumously named Taiyuin.
Its structure and architectural style are lavish and comparable to the most important shrines and temples in the area.
According to history, Iemitsu held his grandfather Ieyasu in high esteem, so all the figures in his mausoleum face Ieyasu’s resting place.
Nikko National Park
Nikko National Park is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the area, where you can enjoy some of Japan’s most stunning landscapes and diverse flora.
Within its vast 1,400 square meters, the park features lakes, waterfalls, and various types of trees, with Japanese cedars being particularly striking.
The Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji are the main attractions in Nikko National Park. You can also visit the Chuzenji and Tachiki Kannon Temples.
For a breathtaking aerial view, there’s a cable car option, starting from Akechidaira for a scenic ride.
Day trip to Nikko from Tokyo
A day trip to Nikko is undoubtedly the best way to explore this unique region of Japan.
There, you’ll be able to admire stunning landscapes while also learning about Japanese history and culture.
With this tour, you won’t have to worry about how to get from Tokyo to Nikko, as it includes full transportation. Starting from Shinjuku or Ueno, a comfortable, air-conditioned bus picks you up and takes you directly to the shrine area.
The first stop is the Kegon Falls, which, with its impressive 100-meter height, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country.
Next, you’ll visit Lake Chuzenji and later enjoy lunch at Hitachi-ya, one of the best restaurants in the area.
The following stop is Toshogu Shrine, built by Shintoists to honor the Kami of Ieyasu, or the spirit of this ancient leader, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate (Japan’s feudal government, which ruled from 1603 to 1867).
The architecture of Toshogu Shrine is breathtaking, adorned with more than 2.5 million gold sheets and built with the expertise of over 15 artisans in a two-year process.
Another must-see is the Futarasan Shrine, notable for its golden temple dedicated to the deities of Nikko’s three most sacred mountains: Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro.
Next on the tour is the Tamozawa Imperial Villa, constructed in 1899. It combines architectural styles from various historical periods, including those of the Shogunate and later periods like that of Emperor Meiji. This villa is the largest wooden structure in Japan.
The villa has 106 rooms and a Japanese garden that has withstood the test of time.
The tour we recommend costs €103 per person and lasts approximately 11 hours.
How to get from Tokyo to Nikko?
If you’d like to get there on your own, you’re probably wondering how to travel from Tokyo to Nikko.
No worries—the Shinkansen bullet train is the best option, with a trip duration of just over an hour.
For this, it’s highly recommended to get the Japan Rail Pass, as it covers the Shinkansen trip round trip, saving you extra costs.
Board the bullet train on the Tohoku line and get off at Utsunomiya Station. From there, transfer to the Nikko line.
There are clear signs in both Japanese and English, making navigation straightforward.
For more independent exploration around Tokyo and nearby areas, including Nikko, consider the Hop-On Hop-Off tour bus ticket. It offers the flexibility to visit the most iconic spots at your own pace, perfect for those who prefer a more personalized experience.
Dining in Nikko
Japanese cuisine is incredibly varied and popular worldwide, but the best way to try truly authentic flavors is at local, non-chain restaurants.
If you visit Nikko, take the opportunity to sample traditional Japanese dishes and local culinary delights.
Ajidokoro Okonomiyaki is an ideal place to enjoy top-notch Japanese contemporary cuisine.
Though the prices may be a bit high, it’s worth a visit before leaving the area.
Another quick and budget-friendly option is Hippari Dako. It’s not a fancy place, but the food is delicious, making it perfect if you’re short on time and don’t want to spend much.
Staying overnight in Nikko
Nikko has many attractions, and you may need more time than expected to fully experience them.
For this reason, staying overnight at a hotel in the area is a great idea. It allows you to make the most of your time, avoiding two separate trips on different days.
The most recommended hotels, known for their balance of price, location, and comfort, are Nikko Hoshino Yado, Seikoen, and Umeyashiki Ryokan.
- Nikko Hoshino Yado is a very traditional inn located near Shinkyo Bridge.
- Seikoen offers comfortable rooms and private hot spring baths, making it well worth the visit.
- Umeyashiki Ryokan is peaceful, with modest yet comfortable rooms at a very affordable price.
Nikko has so much to offer, making your trip to Japan truly fascinating.
For a visual guide, check out this video overview of Nikko to get a sense of what awaits you in this beautiful area!