Nikko – Shrines, Waterfalls & Monkey Business

Nikko is where spiritual grandeur meets mountain adventure—an enchanting escape nestled in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture. Best known for its UNESCO-listed shrines and temples, Nikko offers a captivating blend of ornate architecture, moss-covered stone paths, misty forests, and natural wonders like cascading waterfalls and serene lakes. The crown jewel is Toshogu Shrine, the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, adorned with intricate gold leaf, colorful carvings, and those famously wise monkeys.

Though it’s a bit further from Tokyo compared to other day trips (about two hours by express train), Nikko is absolutely doable in a day—and even better as an overnight adventure if time allows. It’s especially perfect for families and nature lovers who want to combine cultural depth with a breath of mountain air. Kids will enjoy the scenic bus rides, wandering temple grounds, and watching the powerful Kegon Falls from a glass elevator.

Getting There

From Shinjuku Station: Take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to Omiya, then transfer to the JR Nikko Line to reach Nikko Station (about 2.5 hours, ¥2,700). Or take the Tobu Limited Express SPACIA from Shinjuku directly to Tobu-Nikko Station (about 2 hours, ¥2,800).

From Shibuya Station: Take the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno, then hop on the Tobu Nikko Line from Asakusa (about 2–2.5 hours, ¥2,700).

Places to Visit

• Toshogu Shrine – This is the ornate, gold-laden resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Lavish carvings and the famous “see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil” monkeys await.
• Kegon Falls – One of Japan’s top three waterfalls, dropping nearly 100 meters. There’s an elevator that takes you to the base for a splashy close-up.
• Lake Chuzenji – A peaceful lake at the foot of Mount Nantai. Great for walking trails, boat rides, and lakeside lunch stops.
• Shinkyo Bridge – A vermilion bridge at the gateway to Nikko’s sacred area, offering a beautiful photo op.
• Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park – A hidden gem blending Edo, Meiji, and Taisho architectural styles, once a retreat for the imperial family.

Places to Eat

When it comes to food, Nikko has plenty of options beyond just soba and yuba (tofu skin), the local specialty.

1. Hippari Dako – A quirky noodle shop with wall-to-wall stickers from travelers around the world. Casual, fun, and great for families.
2. Meiji no Yakata – Western-style meals served in a historic building with a lovely garden. They have English menus and kids’ options.
3. Nikko Coffee Goyoteidori – Stylish café with artisan coffee, sandwiches, and cakes. Peaceful and artsy atmosphere.
4. Gyoshintei – Traditional Japanese restaurant inside a renovated samurai residence. A more tranquil, upscale experience
5. Santouka – A cozy ramen shop near Tobu-Nikko Station offering hearty bowls in a welcoming, no-fuss atmosphere.
6. Yasai Café Meguri – A charming café focused on local vegetables and seasonal set meals. It’s light, healthy, and beautifully presented.
7. Nikko Yuba ZEN – Specializing in all things yuba, this quiet restaurant offers traditional kaiseki-style yuba lunches in a peaceful tatami setting.

Sample Itinerary

9:00 AM – Arrive in Nikko and start at Shinkyo Bridge.
9:30 AM – Explore the grandeur of Toshogu Shrine.
12:00 PM – Lunch at Hippari Dako or Meiji no Yakata.
1:30 PM – Take a bus to Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji.
3:30 PM – Optional stroll through the Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa grounds.
5:00 PM – Head back to Tokyo.

Whether you're chasing temples, pirate ships, sakura-covered hills, or a steaming bowl of ramen by the sea, these day trips from Tokyo are packed with adventure, culture, and plenty of photo ops. They're all easy to access from central Tokyo—and even easier to enjoy when you have a comfy base to come home to. At Tokyo Family Stays, our spacious, fully equipped homes are perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for convenience, comfort, and local charm and are perfect home bases to take short trips to Kamakura, Kawagoe Chichibu, Yokohama or others - , there's no shortage of great escapes. Whether it’s a first-time visit or your fifteenth, Tokyo and its surroundings always have something new to discover—and we’d love to host you while you explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I visit Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Falls, and Lake Chuzenji all in one day?

Nikko is absolutely doable as a day trip, but remember it’s a big walking destination from the ornate Toshogu Shrine to the natural beauty of Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji. If you’re traveling with young kids or a stroller, plan your pace carefully and make use of buses to cut down on long stretches, and it might be necessary to prepare for a one-night stay.

We also recommend packing layers, snacks, and a light blanket. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, even in warmer months. If you’re coming in autumn for the famous foliage, start early, as crowds build quickly. And for parents: having coin lockers at Tobu-Nikko Station is a lifesaver if you’re bringing extra bags or picnic gear.

2. Is the Nikko stroller and child-friendly for families with young kids?

Nikko is beautiful, but can be challenging with strollers. Many shrine areas have stone steps, uneven paths, and forest trails. A baby carrier or lightweight foldable stroller is the way to go. Buses are child-friendly, and kids love the waterfalls and lake views. If traveling with toddlers, expect slower progress and plan a few rest stops.

3. Do I need to buy tickets in advance for the Tobu Limited Express SPACIA?

We recommend it. Seats on the SPACIA (and the new SPACIA X) are reserved and can sell out on weekends or during the autumn foliage season. Booking online or at Tobu stations in advance saves you the stress of long lines with kids in tow.

4. What’s the best time of year to visit Nikko for fall foliage or seasonal beauty?

Mid-October to early November is the peak for fall colors. That time of year is the most stunning, but also the busiest. Spring brings fresh greenery and cherry blossoms, while winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland (beautiful but cold). For families, autumn is magical if you don’t mind the crowds, while spring offers gentler weather for little ones.

5. Are there any guided tours of Nikko’s temples and natural sites in English?

Yes, licensed English-speaking guides and private tours are available, covering both the UNESCO-protected temple area and the waterfalls. These are great for families who want history explained in a kid-friendly way without trying to navigate on their own. Booking through platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator is the easiest option. However, we can also recommend a tour with some of our respected partners, Arigato Travel, Rakuten Travel Experiences, and Unseen Japan.

6. How much walking is involved when visiting Nikko’s main attractions?

Expect a lot of walking and stair climbing, especially at Toshogu Shrine (hundreds of steps, stone paths). You’ll easily cover 5–8 km in a day if visiting several sites. For families, sturdy shoes, snacks, and pacing breaks are essential. Use buses between sites to save little legs!

7. Is there luggage storage at Nikko or Tobu-Nikko Station?

Yes, both JR Nikko and Tobu-Nikko Stations have coin lockers for bags, including large ones. This is super convenient if you’re traveling with kids and don’t want to haul extra gear around. We recommend packing only a small day bag for sightseeing.

8. What should I wear or bring when visiting Nikko in colder months?

Nikko gets much colder than Tokyo. In autumn and winter, bring layers, a warm jacket, hats, gloves, and scarves for the kids. The shrines are in shaded forest areas that feel chilly even in spring. Sturdy shoes are a must, as paths can be wet or icy. And don’t forget a thermos with hot tea or cocoa for a family warm-up break.

Tokyo Family Stays Tip: Nikko is one of the most rewarding day trips from Tokyo, but it’s also one of the most demanding for families. Plan for early starts, use buses to cut down walking, and keep your itinerary flexible so the whole family can enjoy it stress-free.