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10 Things To Do In Nikko, Japan – Untouched City With Waterfalls & Mountain Lakes 2Hr From Tokyo

Things to do in Nikko City, Japan


Bright lights, deafening traffic, and throngs of people – Tokyo can be pretty overwhelming to the traveller seeking a getaway from the hustle and bustle of tiny little Singapore.

If peace and quiet is a top priority for your next trip, you’ll find it in the leisurely city of Nikko – just 2 hours north from Tokyo in the Tochigi prefecture. This enchanting sanctuary holds everything from breathtaking mountain lakes to stunning waterfalls.

Check out the list of things to do that will help you find your zen in Nikko.

The current exchange rate is ¥144.75 = ~S$1 as of 23rd October 2024.

*Note: The promotions featured in this article may no longer be available.


How many days should I spend in Nikko City?


While a day trip to Nikko City is definitely doable if you’re looking to cram your itinerary with temple and shrine visits, we recommend a minimum of 2 days to get the most out of your trip there. You’ll also need to factor in an additional 4 hours of travel to and from Tokyo, if that is your starting point.

Okunikko is a must-visit region in Nikko city for its hiking trails and gorgeous landscapes, from the likes of Lake Chuzenji, Senjogahara Marsh and the area’s various waterfalls. Exploring all these sites will easily take 2 days.

That being said, Okunikko is a much larger area than you’d think, so if you want to be able to enjoy your holiday at a more peaceful pace, we’d suggest splitting your time between Central Nikko for the first 2 days and then spend another 2 days at Okunikko.


When is a good time to visit Nikko City?


If you’re hoping to get some TikTok-worthy footage on your camera roll, consider visiting Nikko City during the sakura season around mid-April to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom. You can get some of the best views at Kinugawa Onsen’s Gokoku Shrine or at the Kinugawa Onsen Ropeway.

Autumn is another great time to visit, with vibrant red and orange foliage. Some of the most popular spots to see the autumn leaves are at Ryuzu Waterfall in early to mid-October, Lake Chuzenji in mid-October, and Irohazaka Winding Road in late October.


What to do in Nikko City, Japan?


From paddleboarding in Lake Chuzenji to savouring authentic local sake and alcohol at Katayama Shuzo, here’s what to do in Nikko City.


1. Paddleboard around Lake Chuzenji for a different perspective


things to do nikko city - Lake Chuzenji
Image credit: @mbauer via Instagram 

You can’t say you’ve been to Nikko if you haven’t seen Lake Chuzenji. This stunning lake is the result of the eruption of Mount Nantai that occurred some 20,000 years ago and is now one of the most iconic places in Nikko.

things to do nikko city - Lake Chuzenji paddle boarding
Image credit: @supsupnikko via Instagram 

A walk around the entire lake consists of 25km of hills and forests that should take you around 3 hours to complete. If you want to try out something new, cruise around on a paddleboard if weather permits for ¥7,500.

It’s especially beautiful when the vibrant fall foliage decorates the area, but it’s also a respite from the summer heat since its high elevation helps it remain cool all year round.

things to do nikko city - Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel Onsen
The Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel Onsen.

Image credit: @superkokeji via Instagram 

Tip: Book a stay at Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel that sits right at the edge of the lake and treat yourself to breathtaking views all day ‘err day. There’s even an outdoor onsen area to take in your surroundings while soaking up some serious relaxation.

Google Reviews
4.4
(1,170)
Address
Lake Chūzenji, Nikko, Tochigi, Japan
Opening Hours:
Sunday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$1212.65
Google Reviews
4.2
(1,060)
Address
2482 Chūgūshi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1661, Japan
Opening Hours:
Sunday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$146.08

2. Soak in the magnificence of Kegon Falls


things to do nikko city - Kegon Falls
Image credit: @aimansaufi86 via Instagram 

Kegon Falls is lauded as one of the country’s top 3 waterfalls, and it’s easy to see why. Water rushes over from Lake Chuzenji to plunge 97M down into the ravine below – a little like an au natural version of Jewel Changi’s epic fountain.

The waterfall is just a stone’s throw away from Chuzenji Onsen bus terminal, so it’s easy to get to. Choose to either save some bucks and observe the waterfall from an upper observation deck free of charge, or throw in a small fee of ¥570  for a 1 minute-elevator ride down to the lower observation deck.

Kegon Waterfall Paid Elevator.
Google Reviews
4
(357)
Address
2479-2 Chūgūshi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1661, Japan
Opening Hours:
Sunday 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

3. Catch stunning views atop the Akechidaira Plateau


things to do nikko city - Akechidaira Plateau
Image credit: @missdamzel via Instagram 

We all love ourselves some crazy spectacular views, and there’s no denying that the Akechidaira Plateau is the place for this.

Visitors can take a cable car there that brings them through the clouds, with views of mountains and hills that you won’t get to experience in Singapore.

The ropeway runs between 9am-3.30pm daily from December to March, and 8.40am-3.30pm daily from April to November. Do note that the ropeway is closed from 4th-19th February for annual maintenance works. Rides cost ¥1,000 per adult for a round trip.

things to do nikko city - aerial views from Akechidaira Plateau
Stunning aerial views of Chuzenji Lake and Kegon Falls.

Image credit: Tobu Railway

Once you reach the observation area, soak in a 360° view of the ascending Irohazaka Winding Road and the nearby valleys below,

You’ll also get aerial perspectives of Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Waterfall.

Akechidaira Ropeway Observation Deck
Google Reviews
4.2
(1,320)
Address
Japan, 〒321-1445 栃木県日光市細尾町深沢
Opening Hours:
Sunday 09:00 AM - 03:30 PM Show More Timings
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4. Soak in LOTR vibes with a trek through the Senjogahara Marshland


things to do nikko city - Senjogahara Marshland
Image credit: @reysondc via Instagram 

You might feel like Frodo and gang while trekking through this area – with a wide, sprawling marsh surrounded by towering mountains, the Senjogahara Marshland gives off some serious LOTR vibes. The place is brimming with over 350 species of native plants and birds, so both casual hikers and nature lovers will love this place.

things to do nikko city - Senjogahara Marshland hiking trail
Image credit: @daikimutu via Instagram

The trek consists of a 5km walk on a series of boardwalks over relatively flat ground, and it’ll take you about 2 hours to complete the entire thing. To walk the entire trail, you can get off at either the Yumoto Onsen or the Ryuzu no Taki bus stop.

Google Reviews
4.4
(1,606)
Address
Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1661, Japan
Opening Hours:
Sunday Open 24 Hours Show More Timings
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$256.45

5. Relish some authentic Nikko cuisine at Yuba ZEN


things to do nikko city - Yuba ZEN
Image credit: @mayuu0313 via Instagram 

No trip is complete without a taste of local cuisine, and a dish that screams authentic Nikko is none other than yuba. It’s a local delicacy made from the skin that forms on top of soy milk upon heating and has become known as Nikko’s speciality.

things to do nikko city - Yuba ZEN nikko yuba makijo set meal
Image credit: Nikko Yuba ZEN

Swing by Nikko Yuba ZEN and order an 11-course Nikko Yuba Makijo set meal (¥4,800). Dig into an array of yuba dishes with a twist – they use theirs to wrap their sushi instead of the conventional seaweed. It’s a rare find in the rest of Japan, so strike this off your list of must-try food in Nikko.

Nikko Yubamaki ZEN
Google Reviews
4.2
(410)
Address
1007 Kamihatsuishimachi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1401, Japan
Opening Hours:
Sunday 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM Show More Timings
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6. Travel back in time to the Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura


things to do nikko city - Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura
Image credit: @ericaapettyy via Instagram 

For a trip back in time, Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura is the place to go. It’s a historical theme park that recreates Japanese town life during the Edo period, and has even been used as the set location for period dramas. From ¥5,800, you’ll get to experience a sneak peek of their lives back then.

things to do nikko city - Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura edo costume
Image credit: @anakurama via Instagram 

It’s also an opportunity to get some sick photos for your IG feed. Opt to rent a traditional Edo costume from ¥4,100, and you’ll be looking ready for the ‘Gram in no time. If you want a visualisation of how the locals used to work, drop by the Blacksmith and the Armor Repair shops, which are replicas of the traditional craft shops you’d find in the past.

Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura
Google Reviews
4.2
(5,608)
Address
470-2 Karakura, Nikko, Tochigi 321-2524, Japan
Opening Hours:
Sunday 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

7. Traverse down the path of samurais at Shinkyo Bridge


things to do nikko city - Shinkyo Bridge
Image credit: @tuicome via Instagram 

If you were to buy a postcard of Nikko, chances are, you’d find the Shinkyo Bridge on it. It’s a famous landmark that only allowed people of a higher social class, such as the samurais and aristocrats, in the past.

Now, it’s a popular site for visitors for a small fee of ¥300, where you can follow the literal footsteps of Nikko samurais.

things to do nikko city - Shinkyo Bridge 2
Image credit: @arielyuka1011 via Instagram 

The bridge is just a short bus ride away from Tobu Nikko Station and acts as the gateway to the Shrines and Temples of Nikko.

Shinkyō Bridge
Google Reviews
4.2
(8,597)
Address
Kamihatsuishimachi, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1401, Japan
Opening Hours:
Sunday 08:30 AM - 04:30 PM Show More Timings
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8. Pay your respects at the Shrines and Temples of Nikko


things to do nikko city - Shrines and Temples of Nikko
Image credit: @shuvalovadaria via Instagram 

Pictures hardly do this place justice – the Shrines and Temples of Nikko make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 103 religious buildings surrounded by a blanket of nature. Stroll around the place for a couple of hours and take in the Shinto’s notion of what it means to be at one with culture and nature.

things to do nikko city - Toshugu Shrine
Toshugu Shrine.

Image credit: @_hikira_ via Instagram 

One of the more notable shrines in the area is the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, since it’s the most lavishly decorated temple with intricate carvings and glittering gold leaves. It serves as the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu – the founder of the first shogun in Japan.

Price:
Shrine:
¥1,600
Museum: ¥1,000
Shrine and Museum: ¥2400

Google Reviews
4.5
(28,533)
Address
2301 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1431, Japan
Opening Hours:
Sunday 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information
RECOMMENDED TICKETS AT S$829.80

9. Savour shaved ice made of spring water at Nikko Coffee Goyoteidori


things to do nikko city - Nikko Coffee Goyoteidori
Image credit: Tobu Railway

Shaved ice is especially good during the summer season, and for a taste of shaved ice made from Nikko’s very own spring water, stop by Nikko Coffee Goyoteidori. It comes laden with strawberry syrup and condensed milk, making it the perfect treat after a long day of exploring.

things to do nikko city - Nikko Coffee Goyoteidori kakigori
Image credit: @feedback_z via Instagram 

You know it’s legit when the place is often frequented by locals as well! Apart from their shaved ice, Nikko Coffee Goyoteidori also serves aroma-rich coffee and delectable curry rice – great for those looking to refuel after a long day of sightseeing.

Nikko Coffee
Google Reviews
4.1
(567)
Address
3-13 Honchō, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1434, Japan
Opening Hours:
Sunday 10:00 AM - 06:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

10. Guzzle down locally-brewed sake at Katayama Shuzo


things to do nikko city - Katayama Shuzo
Image credit: @saradahappy09 via Instagram 

When it comes to locally-authentic alcohol, Katayama Shuzo has it down pat. It’s been around since 1880 and is one of the few breweries that still uses the old shibori process to strain their rice, which is much more time-consuming than the modern method but guarantees a fresher taste and flavour.

things to do nikko city - Katayama Shuzo sake
Image credit: Tobu Railway

After making a booking beforehand on the Katayama Shuzo website, go on a free 20-minute tour to learn more about how they produce their alcohol with methods passed down from ancestors of yesteryear.

The brewery also sells a bunch of different sakes, and if your tour happens to coincide with their pressing process, you’ll get the pleasure of tasting the freshly extracted sake on-site. You can even purchase a 720ml bottle of sake (from ¥1,850) to bring home as a souvenir.

Katayama Shuzo
Google Reviews
4.4
(515)
Address
146-2 Segawa, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1263, Japan
Opening Hours:
Sunday 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM Show More Timings
Contact Information

Explore Nikko using the Nikko Pass


things to do nikko city - Nikko Pass
Image credit: @sillyjade2015 via Instagram 

With its gorgeous scenery and naturistic landmarks, Nikko is sure to provide you with a breather. Best thing is, it’s just 2 hours north from Tokyo, so you can fly in and conveniently take the Tobu Railway out from Asakusa Station.

things to do nikko city - tobu railway
Image Credit: Tobu Railway

Additionally, arming yourself with a Nikko World Heritage Area Pass covers a round-trip from Tokyo and unlimited bus journeys in central Nikko. If you’re planning to explore beyond Nikko like the nearby Kinugawa Onsen town, opt for the Nikko All Area Pass to cover your entire journey instead.

Ticket prices start from ¥4,160, and it’ll vary depending on the season. Take note that if you’re going between mid-April to November, expect to chip in a little more. But for the sake of easy travelling and little worry, you’ll be doing yourself a favour.

Find out more about the Nikko Pass here

This post was brought to you by Tobu Railway.
Last updated by Mae-Z Fam and Khoo Yong Hao on 23rd October 2024.