Just a 2-hour train ride from Tokyo, you’ll arrive at a city full of ancient temples and shrines, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of mountains and lakes. Simple, serene, and peaceful, Nikko was once a center of Shinto and Buddhist religions and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you plan a one-day trip or escape the city for 2–3 days to relax and slow down, the attractions we’ve listed are perfect for a slow-life experience, full of captivating culture.

Kegon Falls is one of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls, standing over 97 meters tall. It's a key attraction in Nikko and is especially stunning during autumn when the leaves change color. The waterfall flows from Lake Chuzenji, surrounded by magnificent nature. If you don’t want to climb the stairs, you can take a 100-meter elevator down to the viewing point for about 600 yen. There’s a souvenir vending machine where you can engrave your name and the date, so remember to bring coins! In the evening, the sunset over Lake Chuzenji (opposite the falls) creates a breathtaking natural scene. This is a very popular spot for tourists.

How to get there: Take a bus from Tōbu-Nikkō Station to Chuzenji Onsen, about 50 minutes.Admission: Free (elevator to the viewing point costs extra)

The vibrant red Shinkyo Bridge is located in front of the Futarasan Shrine and is a symbol of Nikko. The bridge connects both sides of the Daiya River, believed to separate the human world from the sacred land. Recognized as one of Japan’s most beautiful bridges, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999. In autumn, the bridge is especially enchanting with colorful foliage and the surrounding mountains.

How to get there: Walk about 20 minutes from Tōbu-Nikkō Station or JR Nikko Station.Admission: 300 yen

A tranquil lake on Mount Nantai, surrounded by mountains and forests, formed over 20,000 years ago from volcanic eruptions. It’s popular in every season. The lake has 360-degree scenic viewpoints and a 25 km trekking path for adventurers. In autumn, the surrounding foliage turns red and orange, creating a romantic atmosphere. In winter, it’s a peaceful spot for those seeking quiet beauty.

How to get there: About 20-minute walk from Tōbu-Nikkō or JR Nikko Station.

Built in 1617 by over 127,000 Japanese craftsmen to honor Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, Toshogu Shrine features exquisite carvings, including the famous Three Wise Monkeys, Yomeimon Gate, the sleeping cat Nemurineko, and a five-story pagoda. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for history and culture enthusiasts.

Hours: 9:00–17:00 (Nov–Dec 9:00–16:00)How to get there: 30–40 min walk from Tōbu-Nikkō or JR Nikko Station, or 10 min by bus from Tōbu-Nikkō StationAdmission: Shrine 1,600 yen, Museum 1,000 yen, Shrine + Museum 2,400 yen

A theme park replicating life in the Edo period, with ninja and samurai villages. Visitors can enjoy period performances, rent kimonos, and explore shops and eateries. Ideal for families, it’s one of Nikko’s top attractions.

Hours: 09:00–17:00 (Mar 20–Nov 30), 09:30–16:00 (Dec 1–Mar 19)Closed Wednesdays (except holidays), occasional maintenance closures—check in advance.

How to get there:

Admission: 5,800 yen (5,000 yen after 14:00 summer / 13:00 winter)

A hot spring village in a valley, famous for the annual Kamakura Festival in February, featuring snow huts illuminated from within. Nikko’s valley geography makes it very cold in winter, perfect for soaking in hot springs while enjoying snowy landscapes. This is ideal for a unique winter Nikko experience.

How to get there: Train to Yunishigawa Onsen Station, then 25 min by bus

A historic Buddhist temple founded in the late 8th century by Shodo Shonin, featuring carved statues, including the Thousand-Armed Buddha and the horse-headed Buddha. The Japanese garden adds to the serene experience, perfect for cultural and spiritual interests.

Hours: 08:00–17:00 (Nov–Mar 08:00–16:00)How to get there: 30–40 min walk or 10 min bus from Tōbu-Nikkō StationAdmission: 400 yen (Sanbutsudo Hall), 900 yen (Sanbutsudo + Taiyuin), 300 yen (Treasure House & Shoyoen Garden)

Over 1,000 years old, founded in 782 by Shodo Shonin to honor three deities: Okuninushi, Tagorihime, and Ajisukitakahikone. Surrounded by ancient trees, it’s popular for prayers related to health and family. Easily walkable from Toshogu Shrine.

Hours: Apr–Oct 08:00–17:00, Nov–Mar 09:00–16:00How to get there: 30–40 min walk or 10 min bus from Tōbu-Nikkō StationAdmission: 300 yen

A small ski area in Yumoto Onsen, great for beginners and families. Gentle slopes, small hills for kids, and full ski equipment rental are available. Popular in winter, it pairs well with relaxing in nearby onsen.

A scenic gorge formed by volcanic activity, with the Daiya River flowing through. Moss-covered forest creates a mystical atmosphere. Stone Jizō statues lined up with red bibs are believed to protect travelers and lost souls, offering a spiritual experience.

How to get there: Bus from Tōbu-Nikkō or JR Nikko to Chuzenji Onsen, then 10 min walk from Tamozawa stop

A riverside onsen village with large ryokans, public foot baths, and nature trails. Close to Edo Wonderland and Tobu World Square, making it ideal for a mix of sightseeing and relaxation.

A winter festival held once a year in February at Yunishigawa Onsen, featuring small snow huts illuminated from within. Hundreds of huts line the village, with large ice huts for sitting and dining, creating a magical snowy experience.

How to get there: Train to Yunishigawa Onsen Station, then 25 min by bus

A sushi restaurant located near Lake Chuzenji, offering a cozy and friendly atmosphere at reasonable prices. An experienced chef carefully selects fresh ingredients for sushi, while the kitchen staff manages cooking and customer service simultaneously. The seafood is fresh and delicious—especially the scallop dishes (don’t forget to order them!). The staff can communicate in English, making it popular among international visitors. Reservations are required.

Hours: 11:30–14:00 and 17:30–21:00

A chic café with a luxurious yet peaceful atmosphere, giving guests a cozy, homey feeling. Perfect for enjoying tea, coffee, and cake while admiring the beautifully designed interior and exterior, including a small garden and a welcoming pony outside. The café is also pet-friendly.

Hours: 11:00–16:00 (Closed every Thursday)

Rating: 3 StarsSuitable for: Nature lovers, those seeking peace and quiet, onsen enthusiasts, families, and travelers who enjoy drinks

A ryokan located on the shores of Lake Chuzenji, offering spectacular lake views right from your room. If your budget doesn’t allow for a larger room, you can also opt for a single bed in a shared room. The ryokan features both indoor and outdoor onsen baths, along with a variety of activities such as table tennis, board games, and a reading room. For guests who enjoy drinks, a welcome drink service is available from 15:00 to 22:00, including sake, spirits, and beer.

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Rating: 4 StarsSuitable for: Nature lovers, those seeking peace and quiet, onsen enthusiasts, families

A large 4-star hotel located along the Kinugawa River, offering stunning river and valley views from both the rooms and the onsen. The onsen features indoor and outdoor baths. Rooms are spacious, clean, and uniquely designed in Japanese style, with relatively large bathrooms.

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You can visit Nikko in any season, but the real question is: which version of Nikko do you want to experience? Each season gives the nature, mountains, lakes, and attractions a unique atmosphere. However, the most popular times for tourists are autumn (fall foliage) and winter.

Autumn (Early October – Early November) A truly romantic season, as Nikko is covered in vibrant fall colors. The whole city is painted in shades of red and orange, creating a magical atmosphere.

Winter (Late January – Early March) Nikko is famous for its onsens, making winter the perfect time to relax in hot springs surrounded by pristine snow. You can also enjoy the special winter snow festival, held only once a year.

You can fly from Thailand to Tokyo, choosing between two airports depending on your travel plans: Narita Airport (NRT) or Haneda Airport (HND). From there, you can take the JR train to Nikko, arriving at JR Nikko Station, which takes about 2–3 hours. To reach Chuzenji Onsen, take a bus from Tobu Nikko Station, which takes approximately 50 minutes. The bus fare is around 1,250 yen.

It is recommended to purchase the Nikkō Pass (All Area) from Tobu Railway. This pass covers train and bus fares as well as discounts at various attractions in Nikko, helping you save both time and money while exploring the area.

Finally, Japan is full of cities with stunning nature, beautiful scenery, and rich traditional culture. If reading our Nikko travel list has made you want to visit Nikko, you might also enjoy Yokohama, Kyoto, and Nara—each of them has its own charm that’s just as captivating!