World Heritage Nikko Walking Tour Toshogu and Kanmangafuchi
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Embark on a captivating 5km journey through Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site and sacred hub of Japanese mountain worship, where you'll explore majestic shrines and temples with a licensed English-speaking guide, marvel at intricate Edo-period carvings and grand structures of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, discover the hidden gem of Kanmangafuchi Abyss with its mysterious Jizo statues, choose from four lunch options (Standard Japanese-style menu, Vegetarian, Indian Thali, or No Lunch), quench your thirst with Japan's finest spring water, and experience the perfect blend of tradition and modernity through carefully preserved streetscapes, all while enjoying detailed audio explanations in this intimate small-group adventure through Japan's spiritual and historical heart.
Available options
Tour with Standard Lunch
Lunch: A Japanese-style meal with meat and fish will be served. For vegetarian meal, book separate option. No same-day changes.<br/>Not available: Muslim-friendly meals, allergy-friendly meals, gluten-free meals, etc.
Tour with Vegetarian Lunch
Lunch: A vegetarian meal will be served. Please note that same-day changes cannot be made.<br/>Not available: Muslim-friendly meals, allergy-friendly meals, gluten-free meals, etc.
Tour with Indian Thali Lunch
Lunch: Indian Thali Lunch will be served. Please note that same-day changes cannot be made.<br/>Not available: Allergy-friendly meals, gluten-free meals, etc.
Tour with No Lunch
Lunch is not included: Preparing lunch prior to departure is recommended. Cafes and restaurants near the rest area can be very crowded.
What's included
National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter
Lunch - only if you select Standard, Vegetarian or Indian Thali Lunch option
Audio guide service
Admission fees and transportation costs included in the tour
Admission to Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Detailed itinerary
1
Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a small gorge formed by an eruption of Mt. Nantai. There is a row of approximately 70 stone statues of Jizo (a Bodhisattva who is the protector of children) along the river, and legend says they mysteriously change in number each time they are counted. A botanical garden lies on the opposite side of the Jizo statues, where visitors can enjoy the scenery of the season.
2
Select from 4 lunch options: Japanese, Vegetarian, Indian Thali, or No Lunch to suit your preferences when booking. [Standard Lunch] A Japanese-style meal with meat and fish will be served. [Vegetarian Lunch] A Japanese-style vegetarian meal will be served. [Indian Thali] A double curry set will be served. Butter chicken masala, coconut curry, naan, rice, salad, lassi, dessert. For those who would like vegetarian curry or Muslim-friendly curry, please inform the guide during the meet-up in the morning on the day. [No Lunch] Lunch is not included on this tour. Please prepare lunch in advance on your own. Cafes and restaurants near the rest area can be very crowded. Preparing this prior to departure is recommended. [Important Notice] Same-day changes in lunch options cannot be made. Muslim-friendly meals, allergy-friendly meals, gluten-free meals, etc. are not available.
3
Stop 3
A registered UNESCO World Heritage Site, this sacred place with over 400 years of history is where Ieyasu Tokugawa, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, is enshrined. Enjoy seeing the traditional beauty of the main hall, as well as the sleeping cat and 3 monkey carvings.
What's not included
Fees other than those listed in Includes
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.0
3 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This plan departs from Tobu Nikko Station, and does not include transportation from other areas
The order of the tour itinerary is subject to change due to road conditions, events, ceremonies, or other reasons. In addition, there may be times when the entire itinerary will be on foot (total approx. 7.0 km)
Public transportation will be used to move around on this tour. Please note that seating is not guaranteed
In the winter season [around December to mid-March] and during inclement weather, etc. when it may be difficult to ensure road safety to Kanmangafuchi Abyss, the tour will be guided to Futarasan Shrine, Taiyuuin Mausoleum at Rinno-ji Temple, Tamozawa Imperial Villa, Toshogu Museum, Kanaya Hotel History House, or Nikko Botanical Gardens instead
If the tour is shared with customers joining round-trip from Shinjuku, the National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter may be taking the train from Tokyo to the meeting location. In this case, customers may have to wait until around 11:35am
Customers who are late for the departure time 11:40am due to their own circumstances will have their reservations canceled
If there are customers joining the tour round-trip from Shinjuku, the National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter will head to Tobu Nikko Station. For those heading to the station area, please confirm with the interpreter guide how to get back
While congestion is expected at the location, an audio service with which explanations from the National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter can be heard will be available
Children up to 5 years old may join free of charge, but will not be provided with lunch. For children requiring lunch, please book the child rate with lunch option
[No Lunch Tour] Lunch is not included on this tour. Please prepare lunch in advance on your own. Cafes and restaurants near the rest area can be very crowded. Preparing this prior to departure is recommended
[With Standard or Vegetarian Lunch Tour] Enjoy our Japanese-style lunch. For a vegetarian meal, please book the vegetarian lunch option. Please note that same-day changes cannot be made.
[With Indian Thali Lunch Tour] A double curry set will be served. (Butter chicken masala, coconut curry, naan, rice, salad, lassi, dessert.) For those who would like vegetarian curry or Muslim-friendly curry, please inform the guide during the meet-up in the morning on the day. For those who prefer a standard menu meal or a vegetarian meal, please book the corresponding plan instead. Same-day changes cannot be made. Allergy-friendly meals, gluten-free meals, etc. are not available
As there are slopes and stairs in areas around Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kanmangafuchi Abyss, wearing comfortable shoes as well as using a backpack are recommended. Walking distance during the tour is about 5km [3miles]
Shoes must be removed in some areas in Toshogu Shrine. Please participate wearing shoes that are easy to put on and take off
As there are land leeches from April to November, please be sure to keep your legs covered. We recommend wearing thick socks that cover the ankles and bringing bug spray
Parental permission in writing is necessary for all tour participants under the age of eighteen. Any participant under the age of fifteen or not yet enrolled in middle school must be joined by a parent or guardian on the tour
Meeting point
Meet your guide in front of the Tourist Information Center inside Tobu Nikko Station building. Then take the route bus to the bus stop near Kanmangafuchi Abyss. Late arrivals will have their reservations canceled. Joining the tour partway through after the tour has departed is not allowed.
Important notes
• If you have arrived at the pickup location but have trouble finding the meeting point, you can call the local operator JTB Sunrise Tours on +81 3 5796 5454 (Operated between 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Japan time) for assistance.
• In case bookings have been made separately, you may be assigned to be on separate tour buses.
About Nikko
Nikko is a city in Japan's Tochigi Prefecture, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and historic shrines. It's home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed shrines and temples of Nikkō, nestled in the mountains and surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls.
Top Attractions
Toshogu Shrine
Toshogu Shrine is a lavishly decorated shrine complex dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most important historical landmarks.
Historical/Religious
1 to 2 hours
¥1,300
Kegon Falls
Kegon Falls is one of Japan's most famous waterfalls, with a drop of 97 meters (318 feet) into a stunning gorge. It is a popular spot for photography and nature lovers.
Nature
2 to 3 hours
Free (access to the falls is free, but the observation deck requires a fee of ¥530)
Shinkyo Bridge
Shinkyo Bridge, also known as the Sacred Bridge, is a beautiful wooden bridge that spans the Daiya River. It is considered the gateway to the shrines and temples of Nikkō and is a popular spot for photographs.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
¥300 (to cross the bridge)
Lake Chuzenji
Lake Chuzenji is a beautiful mountain lake formed by a volcanic dam. It is surrounded by lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Nantai.
Nature
1 to 2 hours
Free (access to the lake is free, but parking and boat rentals may incur fees)
Rinno-ji Temple
Rinno-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple complex founded in 766 AD. It is one of the most important temples in Nikko and is closely associated with the nearby Toshogu Shrine.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations are appreciated)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Yuba
Yuba is a delicate tofu skin that is a local specialty in Nikko. It is often served in soups, hot pots, or as a topping for noodles and rice dishes.
Dish
Vegetarian, Vegan (if prepared without fish stock)
Shoyu Ramen
Shoyu ramen is a popular ramen dish featuring a soy sauce-based broth, thin noodles, and various toppings such as chashu pork, green onions, and bamboo shoots.
Dish
Contains gluten, Allergens: Soy, Wheat
Nikko Soba
Nikko soba is a local buckwheat noodle dish served cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth. It is a popular dish during the colder months.
Dish
Gluten-free (if made with 100% buckwheat flour)
Yakimochi
Yakimochi is a grilled rice cake that is a popular street food and snack in Nikko. It is often served with a sweet soy-based sauce and topped with bonito flakes or sesame seeds.
Dish
Vegetarian (if made without fish flakes)
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain climbing
White-water rafting
Onsen (hot springs)
Nature walks
Boating
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional crafts and workshops
Best Time to Visit
April to November
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and vibrant foliage, while summer brings lush greenery and outdoor activities. Autumn is particularly popular for its stunning fall colors.
10°C to 30°C
50°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Nikko is a very safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public safety and order. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and handling money in public
- • Use licensed taxis and tour services
Getting there
By air
- Tokyo Narita International Airport • 150 km
- Tokyo Haneda Airport • 130 km
By train
Nikko Station
By bus
Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is the primary mode of public transportation in Nikko, with frequent services to major attractions, hotels, and stations. Buses are comfortable and air-conditioned, with English announcements on some routes.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Nikko Town
Chuzenji
Imaichi
Day trips
Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji
15 km from Nikko Station • Full day
Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji offer stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and photography. The area is known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and mountain views, making it a popular day trip destination from Nikko.
Oku-Nikko and Mount Nantai
20 km from Nikko Station • Full day
Oku-Nikko and Mount Nantai offer breathtaking mountain views, hiking trails, and religious sites. The area is known for its sacred mountain, Mount Nantai, and its association with the nearby shrines and temples of Nikkō.
Edo Wonderland
50 km from Nikko Station • Full day
Edo Wonderland is a popular theme park and entertainment complex located near Nikko. The park offers a variety of attractions, shows, and restaurants, providing a fun and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Festivals
Nikko Festival • Early October
Nikkō Kanmangafuchi Autumn Leaves Festival • Mid-November to early December
Nikko Winter Illuminations • Late December to early March
Pro tips
- Visit Toshogu Shrine early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere
- Try yuba (tofu skin) dishes, a local specialty that is unique to Nikko and the surrounding region
- Explore the city's traditional streets and alleys, such as Nikko Tamoan, for a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture
- Take a day trip to Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji for stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, such as hiking and boating
- Stay in a ryokan (traditional inn) with an onsen (hot spring) for a unique and authentic experience that showcases the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
