Nikko UNESCO Heritage & Nature Customized Private Tour
Active
6h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Escape from busy Tokyo! You will get to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nikko. Nikko is the entrance to Nikko National Park, the historic Toshogu Shrine and the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Our local Nikko guide will show you places with rich Japanese history, culture, and breathtaking scenery all in one day.
Available options
6-hour Walking Tour
Meet at Nikko Station: Please noted, if you want to meet a guide at your hotel in tokyo, please select other option. <br/>Duration: 6 hours: It's a 6-hour private tour where you can explore customized plans using public transportation.<br/>Tailor your tour: Visit 2-3 locations, planned in advance with your guide.
Private Vehicle from Tokyo
Tokyo Departure Tours: If you want to meet a guide at your hotel in Tokyo, please select this option.<br/>Duration: 12 hours: It's an 12-hour private tour where you can explore customized plans using a private vehicle.<br/>Tailor your tour: Visit 3-4 locations, planned in advance with your guide.<br/>Max 8 Passengers<br/>Pickup included
8-hour Walking Tour
Meet at nikko Station: If you want to meet a guide at your hotel in Tokyo, please select this option.<br/>Duration: 8 hours: It's a 8-hour private tour where you can explore customized plans using public transportation.<br/>Tailor your tour: Visit 3-4 locations, planned in advance with your guide.
What's included
Professional Local Guide.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
A lavishly decorated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Toshogu is the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The shrine features intricate carvings, including the famous "See No Evil, Speak No Evil, Hear No Evil" monkey trio.
2
One of Nikko’s oldest shrines, dedicated to the Shinto deities of the mountains. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere, sacred bridge (Shinkyo), and deep connection to the natural beauty of the region.
3
Nikkozan Rinnoji is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a key Buddhist temple in Nikko. It features a stunning main hall with three golden Buddha statues and the beautiful Taiyuin Mausoleum.
4
A famous winding mountain road with 48 hairpin turns, leading up to Lake Chuzenji. It’s a thrilling drive, especially in autumn when the fall colors create a breathtaking backdrop.
5
Stop 5
One of Japan’s top three waterfalls, Kegon Falls drops 97 meters in a breathtaking display of nature’s power. The observation deck offers spectacular views, especially in autumn when the foliage is vibrant.
6
Stop 6
A scenic mountain lake formed by a volcanic eruption, offering stunning seasonal views. Visitors can take a boat cruise, enjoy lakeside hot springs, or simply relax while admiring the tranquil waters.
7
Stop 7
Named "Dragon Head Falls" for its shape, this waterfall is a hidden gem surrounded by beautiful autumn foliage. It’s a great stop for photography and a peaceful nature walk.
8
A vast, high-altitude marshland offering spectacular hiking trails with panoramic views of Mount Nantai and seasonal wildflowers. A paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
9
Stop 9
A serene garden showcasing a variety of alpine plants, rare trees, and seasonal flowers. A perfect spot for a relaxing stroll, especially in spring and autumn.
What's not included
You & Guide
You & Guide
Meals & Drinks (for you & guide).
All Transport Fares (for you & guide).
Optional, additional fee applies.
Available languages
Guide guide
JA
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
A moderate amount of walking is included. Please wear comfortable walking shoes.
The tour will take place rain or shine.
Important notes
*Important*
-We send a message about your tour details. Please confirm it.
-Please let us know your hotel name and address in advance to meet up at your hotel.
-Please pay for the guide's transportation fee and lunch on the tour.
-This is a customized tour, so please let us know your preference in advance.
-Please let us know your preference for lunch.
-Also, if you have any food allergy or restriction, we need to know it.
-If you use a Wheelchair, stroller, or something we need to help you, please let us know in advance.
-If you request us to change the tour date or cancel the tour due to your convenience (including rain, flight, etc), we basically ask cancellation fee based on our cancellation policy.
-In the case if Japan Meteorological Agency provides the "warning" sign to the related area, we will do cancel your tour with full refund.
-If your hotel is cruise ship or airport area or far from central city, we need additional fee for meeting up at there.
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On the day of your tour, our guide will be waiting at the meeting place with a board saying "Japan Wonder Travel".
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
Instant confirmation
