Only about two hours from central Tokyo, Nikko offers a beautiful and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of one of the world’s largest and busiest cities. Nestled in the mountains, Nikko is home to stunning shrines and monuments dedicated to Ieyasu Tokugawa, the warlord who unified Japan in 1600.
The Toshogu Shrine is a must-visit. With its astonishing craftsmanship and intricate carvings, it is widely regarded as the most beautiful shrine in Japan. Another highlight is the Shinkyo Bridge, or Sacred Bridge, a striking red wooden footbridge that offers a fantastic photo opportunity—especially in autumn when the surrounding trees glow in shades of gold and red.
Nearby is the Rinnoji Temple, founded by Shodo Shonin, the Buddhist monk who introduced Buddhism to the region. Another significant site is the Futarasan Shrine, established in 782. This shrine is about a 30-minute walk from Rinnoji Temple and Toshogu Shrine.
For plant lovers, the Nikko Botanical Gardens are well worth a visit. Operated as an offshoot of the University of Tokyo, the gardens feature over 1,500 plant species, with a focus on alpine varieties. They are especially beautiful in autumn.
Nikko is also the gateway to Nikko National Park and is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. Many visitors extend their trip to explore Lake Chuzenji and the spectacular Kegon Waterfall, which plunges 100 metres down a rocky cliff. The area also boasts natural hot springs, perfect for relaxation. The mountains around Nikko are home to wild monkeys—while they are not usually aggressive, visitors should be cautious, as they can scratch or bite.
Lake Chuzenji is a paradise for adventure lovers, offering plenty of hiking trails, including a scenic track that circles the volcanic lake. Boating is also popular, with numerous vendors offering boat tours that provide magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.
Nikko is located about 125 km northwest of Tokyo and is easily accessible by train. The fastest route is by Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Utsunomiya, followed by a local train to Nikko. If departing from Asakusa, a better option is the private Tobu Nikko Line, which offers direct access to the town.
