Nikko, a small city in Tochigi prefecture, is the perfect escape from Tokyo. It has stunning natural scenery, hot springs, and a famous World Heritage Site. Take advantage of the opportunity to check out these seven things to do in Nikko, Japan!
Best Time to Visit: March/April/May/October/November
Nikko Pass:
World Heritage Area (2 Days) – ¥2,120 to ¥4,840
All Area (4 Days) – ¥4,160 to ¥7,500
1. Kanmangafuchi Abyss
Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a hidden gem. Not that it isn’t known, but it’s just a bit quiet and out of the way compared to some of the more popular tourist attractions. You may find yourself alone if you visit.
To get to the Abyss, you have to take a short walk through a neighborhood and across the abyss itself to get the statues. The abyss was formed approximately 700 years ago by an eruption of Mt. Nantai. The area is stunning, with all the greenery and the Daiya river running through the abyss. This is an excellent stop for nature lovers.
When you arrive at Kanmangafuchi Abyss, you are greeted by a grassy area and a small Buddhist temple. You will find yourself among 70 or so Jizo Buddhist statues as you walk farther in. It’s said that nobody knows exactly how many statues there are as the number is different every time you count; however, it’s roughly 74 statues lined up facing the river.
Walking beyond the statues, you will find yourself in a graveyard.
2. Kegon Falls
Kegon Waterfall, located near Lake Chuzenji, is approximately 97 meters (318 feet) high and is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful waterfalls. Kegon Waterfall is named after the Buddhist teaching “Ke gon,” meaning “The Sound of the Flute.”
The waterfall is easily accessible and is only a short walk from the bus stop. You can also take a scenic cable car ride to the top of the waterfall, providing a stunning view of the surrounding area. Visit the observation deck to take in the incredible views! Kegon falls is a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
Pair a trip to the waterfall with a visit to Lake Chuzenji.
3. Lake Chuzenji Sightseeing Tour
Lake Chuzenji is a beautiful lake surrounded by lush forests and mountains. Chuzenji is often considered one of the most beautiful lakes in Japan and offers a variety of activities.
One of the most popular activities at Lake Chuzenji is a sightseeing boat tour of the lake. You can view the stunning scenery as you glide across the water. The boat tours provide an opportunity to see the lake’s natural beauty and learn about Nikko’s history and culture. Visit in the fall for stunning fall colors around the lake.
If a scenic boat ride isn’t for you, the area around the lake is also popular for hiking. There are dozens of trails ready for exploration, many of which have scenic overlooks of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Price:
¥1,400 for adults
¥3,000 for adults
4. Shinkyo Bridge
Shinkyo Bridge is a stunning red bridge at the edge of town at the entrance to the shrine area of Nikko. The bridge itself belongs to Futarasan Shrine. This “Sacred Bridge” dates back to 1636 and is considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful bridges.
While the bridge was long closed to the public, these days, you can pay a small fee to walk on the bridge. While you cannot fully cross the bridge, you can stand on it to take pictures and view the Daiya River.
However, you can get an equally great view from either side along the street, so don’t feel you need to pay to get the full experience.
Hours:
8:30 to 16:00 (April – October)
9:30 to 15:00 (November – March)
Price: ¥300
5. Edo Wonderland
Edo Wonderland entails precisely what its name describes; it’s a theme park based around the Edo period, 17th Century, in Japan.
You could compare the experience at Edo Wonderland to that of a Renaissance fair. The whole place is themed after the Edo Period and offers food, activities, and entertainment that follows the theme. There is an Edo village where you can walk around and even dress up and play the part of a village citizen.
There is a variety of different experiences that you can take part in around Edo village, including experiences specifically for children.
Hours:
9:00 to 17:00 (Mid-March – November)
9:30 to 16:00 (December – Mid-March)
Closed on Wednesdays
Price:
¥5,800 for adults
¥3,000 for adults
6. Tobu World Square
Tobu World Square is a unique museum attraction perfect for architecture lovers. The museum is home to reproductions of 100 famous buildings from around the world. All of these replicas are 1/25 scale of their real counterparts.
The park is separated into different zones based on the location of the original building. While the park leans heavily into Japanese architecture, there are America, Europe, and Egypt zones! The park also has a rose garden if you need a second away from all the buildings.
Hours:
9:00 to 17:00 (Mid-March – November)
9:30 to 16:00 (December – Mid-March)
Price:
¥2,800 for adults
¥1,400 for adults
7. Tosho-gu Shrine
Tosho-gu Shrine is arguably the main reason that most tourists visit Nikko.
The shrine was built during the Edo Period and is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, which ruled Japan for over 250 years.
Within the shrine grounds are 42 structures that are part of Tosho-gu, including a five-story pagoda, a couple of extravagant gates, a main shrine, and an inner shrine. The buildings are uniquely ornate and decorated with gold leaf; you won’t find many other shrines with this ornate style in Japan.
The main shrine can be entered, but unfortunately, you won’t be able to take photos inside. Beyond the main shrine, up hundreds of stairs, is the inner shrine where Tokugawa Ieyasu is entombed. On your way to the inner shrine, look up and see the wooden cat carving!
Hours:
9:00 to 17:00 (April – October)
9:0 to 16:00 (November – March)
Price:
¥1,300 for the shrine
¥1,000 for the museum
¥2,100 for both the shrine and museum
Are you planning a trip to Nikko?
Check out my Nikko Travel Guide for more helpful information!
