Nikko, 140 kilometres north of Tokyo in Tochigi Prefecture, packs an extraordinary density of UNESCO World Heritage shrines, mountain scenery, and waterfalls into a single day trip. It is one of Japan’s most rewarding excursions from the capital — combining the ornate excess of Edo-period religious architecture with the natural drama of the Nikko National Park.
Getting There
The fastest route from Tokyo is the Tobu Nikko Line from Asakusa: the Spacia limited express reaches Tobu-Nikko Station in approximately 1 hour 50 minutes (¥2,720 reserved, or the Revaty Kegon for ¥2,780). JR Pass holders can take the Shinkansen to Utsunomiya and transfer to the JR Nikko Line (total approximately 2 hours). The Tobu Nikko Pass (¥4,310) includes return trains from Asakusa plus unlimited area buses — excellent value if using local buses.
Toshogu Shrine Complex
Toshogu is the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, completed in 1636 under his grandson Iemitsu. The complex comprises over a dozen structures including the Yomeimon (Sunlight Gate) — considered Japan’s finest decorative gate, covered with 508 carvings of animals, flowers, and figures. The Nemuri-neko (Sleeping Cat) carving above the Sakashitamon gate is small but famous; behind it, 207 stone steps lead to Ieyasu’s simple tomb. The three monkeys (mizaru, iwazaru, kikazaru — see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil) carving near the stable is the original source of the expression.
Combined entry for the main shrine buildings: ¥1,300 adults. The Rinno-ji Temple (¥900) and Futarasan Shrine (¥200) complete the UNESCO-listed complex; budget 2–3 hours for all three.
Kegon Falls & Lake Chuzenji
Kegon Falls drops 97 metres from Lake Chuzenji into a gorge below — one of Japan’s three great waterfalls. An elevator (¥570) descends to an observation deck at the base for the most dramatic view. Lake Chuzenji (1,269 metres altitude) offers boat cruises and lakeside walking. Access: 40 minutes by bus from Tobu-Nikko Station via the famous Irohazaka switchback road — 48 hairpin curves ascending 546 metres of altitude, the road’s name referencing the 48 letters of the Japanese syllabary.
Practical Tips
- Start early: Toshogu opens at 08:00; arrive before 10:00 to beat tour groups.
- Late October–early November brings spectacular autumn foliage to both the shrine area and Irohazaka.
- The main shrine area is compact and walkable from the station (25 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by bus).
- Budget full day: shrine complex 2–3 hours + Chuzenji/Kegon 2 hours + travel = 10–11 hours total.