Researched guide · Checked on Nov 3, 2026
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Nikko is a mountain town north of Tokyo, famous for the richly decorated shrines and temples that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Further up the mountain are waterfalls and a large lake. It is one of the best day trips from Tokyo, and in autumn the leaves are spectacular.
Quick answer
Getting there: Tobu limited express from Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko, or the Shinkansen to Utsunomiya and the JR Nikko Line
Time needed: One full day. Two days to add Lake Chuzenji and a hot spring
Best time: Leave early. Autumn is beautiful but very crowded
Good for: Temples and shrines, carvings, nature and cooler air
| Getting there | Tobu limited express from Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko, or the Shinkansen to Utsunomiya and the JR Nikko Line |
| Time needed | One full day. Two days to add Lake Chuzenji and a hot spring |
| Best time | Leave early. Autumn is beautiful but very crowded |
| Good for | Temples and shrines, carvings, nature and cooler air |
Getting there from Tokyo
- Tobu limited express: the SPACIA X and other limited express trains run from Asakusa, stopping at Tokyo Skytree and Kita-Senju, to Tobu-Nikko in about two hours. Seats are reserved, so book ahead. See our Asakusa guide.
- Shinkansen and JR: take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo or Ueno to Utsunomiya, then the JR Nikko Line to Nikko.
| Route | Time | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Tobu limited express from Asakusa | About 2 hours | Reserved seats. The fastest direct option |
| Tobu local and rapid trains from Asakusa | About 1 hour longer | About half the price of the limited express |
| Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya, then JR Nikko Line | Varies by connection | One transfer. Costs more, but covered by the Japan Rail Pass |
NIKKO PASS World Heritage Area
- Price: ¥3,000 for adults, ¥1,500 for children, valid for 2 days.
- Includes: one round trip between Asakusa and Shimo-Imaichi, Tobu trains between Shimo-Imaichi, Tobu-Nikko and Shin-Fujiwara, and Tobu buses in the World Heritage area.
- Not included: the limited express charge (buy it separately) and admission to the shrines and temples.
- Who can buy: foreign travelers (and Japanese people traveling with them). Buy online or at the Tobu Tourist Information Center in Asakusa.
Japan Rail Pass: it does not cover Tobu trains from Asakusa. With a JR pass, take the Shinkansen route, or a JR–Tobu through train.
A day in Nikko
- MorningTobu-Nikko or JR Nikko Station
- Bus to the shrine area
- Late morningShinkyo Bridge
- Walk
- MiddayNikko Toshogu
- Walk
- AfternoonRinnoji and Futarasan Shrine
Nikko Toshogu
Toshogu is the shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Tokugawa shogun. Its buildings are covered with colorful carvings. Look for the Yomeimon Gate, the famous three wise monkeys (see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil) and the sleeping cat.
| Details | |
|---|---|
| Admission | ¥1,600 for adults and high school students, ¥550 for elementary and junior high school students. ¥2,400 for adults with the Treasure House |
| Hours | April 1–October 31: 9:00–17:00. November 1–March 31: 9:00–16:00. Last entry 30 minutes before closing |
| Payment | Cash only at the ticket counter |
| Access | World Heritage Tour bus from Nikko or Tobu-Nikko Station to the Omotesando stop (about 13 minutes) |
Some areas may be closed for ceremonies or repairs, so check the official site before you go. In winter, arrive by 15:30 at the latest.
Shinkyo Bridge, Rinnoji and Futarasan Shrine
On the way from the station, the red Shinkyo Bridge crosses the river at the entrance to the shrine area. Rinnoji Temple and Futarasan Shrine are next to Toshogu, and together the shrines and temples of Nikko make up the World Heritage Site. Each charges its own admission.
Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji
If you have more time, take a bus up the winding Irohazaka road to Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls, a tall waterfall that drops from the lake. In autumn the road is often jammed with traffic, so allow plenty of time.
- Kegon Falls elevator: takes you down to a viewing platform near the bottom of the falls. Round trip ¥600 for adults, ¥400 for elementary school children. Open 8:00–17:00 (March–November) and 9:00–16:30 (December–February). No reservation needed.
- Akechidaira Ropeway: suspended from January 16, 2026 to August 31, 2027 for construction (the period may be extended).
Tips
- Nikko is in the mountains and colder than Tokyo. Bring a warm layer, especially from autumn to spring.
- Bring cash for admission and small shops.
- Autumn leaves weekends are extremely busy. Go on a weekday if you can.
- Toshogu has many steps. Wear comfortable shoes.
Nikko day tours from Tokyo, and staying overnight
A guided day tour from Tokyo takes care of trains and buses for you. This helps most if you want to see both Toshogu and Kegon Falls in one day, because Kegon Falls is a bus ride up the Irohazaka road from the town. Going on your own gives you more time at Toshogu and lets you choose your train. If you stay a night, you can add Lake Chuzenji or a hot spring town such as Kinugawa Onsen.
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FAQ
How do I get to Nikko from Tokyo?
Take a Tobu limited express from Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko (about two hours), or the Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya and the JR Nikko Line.
How much is Nikko Toshogu?
¥1,600 for adults, or ¥2,400 with the Toshogu Museum. Cash only at the ticket counter.
Can I see Nikko in one day?
Yes, one full day covers the shrines and temples. Two days let you add Lake Chuzenji and a hot spring.
What should I look for at Toshogu?
The Yomeimon Gate, the three wise monkeys and the sleeping cat carving.
Can I use the Japan Rail Pass to Nikko?
Yes, on the JR route: the Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya and the JR Nikko Line. Tobu trains from Asakusa are not covered.
What time does Nikko Toshogu close?
17:00 from April to October and 16:00 from November to March. Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.
What does the NIKKO PASS include?
The World Heritage Area pass (¥3,000 for adults, 2 days) covers a round trip from Asakusa and Tobu buses around the shrines. The limited express charge and admission fees are extra.
Keep reading
Sources
This guide is based on the official information below (checked November 3, 2026), not on our own visit. Timetables, hours and prices can change, so please check before you go.
