Tokyo
The scenic & the sacred in Nikkō: Japan’s glittering gem
Day Trips & Local Escapes • 10 hours
4.8
(11)
The scenic & the sacred in Nikkō: Japan’s glittering gem
Visit Japan's most lavishly decorated shrine and other UNESCO heritage sites on a private day trip to historical Nikko from Tokyo
What makes this experience special
Key highlights
- Meet up with a local host in Tokyo and take the scenic train ride to the city of Nikkō.
- Explore the historic Edo cultural and religious sites on foot, and take in some spectacular landscapes.
- Visit the Toshogu Shrine (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Taiyu-in Temple and the Rinnoji Temple.
- If you’re keen, visit a traditional sake brewery to see how its made. Yes, you can taste it, too!
- Indulge in authentic Nikkō lunch at one of your host’s favorite spots, and sample some local delicacies.
- See and walk the city’s National Park and explore some stunning waterfalls, mountains and lakes.
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
10 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
Private and personalized itinerary
10 hours with a host
Return travel from Tokyo to Nikko on Tobu Railway Limited Express
Nikko Tourist Pass (bought in advance by host) includes free travel in Nikko and some tourist discounts/ entrance to some ticketed sites
Walking experience
What’s not included
Food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions other than those included in the pass
Transport costs other than those included in the experience
Gratuities (optional)
Meeting point
The host will be waiting in front of the Tobu Tourist Information Center - AsakusaCancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat to bring
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
- Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.
How your day could unfold
A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you mostWhat you’ll do
Journey to Nikkō, a small city in the mountains north of Tokyo. Your host will ensure you don’t miss the splendor of Toshogu Shrine, a 17th-century gem with a stunning five-story pagoda. Nearby, the Buddhist temple of Rinnō-ji stands proud as part of the same UNESCO World Heritage Site, but don’t forget to visit the Taiyū-in Mausoleum next door, built to honor the third Tokugagwa shōgun.
You could also take a trip up to the mountains, where Lake Chūzenji drains through Kegon Falls, a 97m natural marvel. Once you leave the forests, quiet the tummy rumblings at a local eatery, where tofu skin and soba noodles are always on the menu, and wash it all down with some locally-brewed sake!
1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
Kanpai from the coziest izakaya
A peaceful moment at Kanda Shrine
Flying high for Children's Day!
New friendships over late-night ramen
Shared plates, shared smiles
Takeshita Street, where quirky fashion, sweet treats, and pop culture collide
History meets gold at Ueno Toshogu Shrine
From navigating to sharing hidden stops
Press start on an Akihabara adventure!
Night out, Tokyo-style
Neon Nights, New Friends
Layover Magic at Tokyo Station
Quirky Café Moments
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What travelers think of this experience
Martina
Sep 2024
Really recommend this tour, even on a rainy day, Nikko is still fascinating. Our tour guide Nobu was great, very friendly, very knowledgeable and worked the schedule around our needs. So glad we booked this tour!
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Paul
Oct 2023
I would recommend him highly.
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Angeliki
Jun 2023
The Agency City Unscripted in Tokyo is one fantastic choice for experience in the city. We booked the Private Tour to Nikko and everything was smooth, easy to arrange and digital. The agency responded very quickly to my questions and matched us to a great host who was an advantage on her own right: Megumi! Such a knowledgeable, organized, warm person who made our travel a joy and a unique experience Thank you!
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Angeliki
Jun 2023
Megumi is such a great and knowledgeable personality at the same time. She had exciting suggestions for us and did the most of our input. Her organization was impeccable. Adfitionally she is such a warm, lovely young lady that made this father - daughter day unforgettable to us. I would recommend your agency and Megumi more so as a fantastic guide. We will come back and come in contact again for more experiences with Megumi
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Anfal
May 2023
The guide (Steven) made the trip so much easier and wonderful. He was very sweet and friendly and helped me have a good time.
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Anfal
May 2023
I had a great time with him he's very sweet and tried to let have a good time as much as he could. I use a wheelchair and he even helped pushing me around.
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