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
Experience Overview
Time:
10 hoursWhat to expect:
Fully tailored to your preferencesLanguage:
Hosted in English (Other languages may be requested)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.
What’s Included:
What’s Excluded:
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.
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What 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!