Nikko: Shrine, Waterfall and Autumn Leaves by Car (Private Tour)

Tokyo , Japan

Nikko: Shrine, Waterfall and Autumn Leaves by Car (Private Tour)

Active

6h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

IMPORTANT:
Guests must book and rent the car in their own name (e.g., Toyota Rent-A-Car, Nippon Rent-A-Car).

Your guide will:

- Help with car reservation in advance

- Support you during car pick-up and return

- Handle navigation, parking, and itinerary management

- Public transport option is available if preferred (slower but possible).

Experience the breathtaking autumn colors of Nikko on this guided day trip from Tokyo. Visit UNESCO-listed Toshogu Shrine, walk across the iconic Shinkyo Bridge, admire the powerful Kegon Falls, and enjoy the stunning scenery around Lake Chuzenji. Your expert guide will ensure you see the best seasonal spots, share cultural insights, and assist with smooth travel logistics.

Perfect for travelers looking to escape Tokyo and immerse themselves in Japan’s natural and cultural heritage during the vibrant fall foliage season.

Available options

Public Transportation

Meet Up in Nikko: Instead of using a Rental Car, we will meet in Nikko and have a walking tour.

Nikko: Shrine, Waterfall and Autumn Leaves by Car (Private Tour)

What's included

On-the-day assistance with car pick-up and return

Professional English-speaking guide

Cultural and historical commentary throughout the trip

Pre-tour support with car rental reservations

Detailed itinerary

This will be the meeting point.

Meet your guide at Shinjuku or Asakusa.

Pick up rental car (guide assists).

Drive to Nikko (~2 hrs with rest stop).

Stop 2

Start with the main highlight before the big afternoon crowds arrive.

Explore ornate gates, carvings, and World Heritage buildings.

This bright red bridge looks like it was designed just for Instagram. Most people just snap a photo from outside (which is free), but if you want bragging rights you can pay a few coins and strut across like a samurai heading into the mountains.

Hold tight! This legendary road has 48 curves, each named after a Japanese alphabet letter. It feels like Mario Kart, but with flaming red and yellow autumn leaves instead of banana peels.

Stop 5

Nearly a 100-meter drop of pure power. From the free viewing deck, it’s already breathtaking, but take the elevator down for a close-up where you can feel the mist on your face.

Stop 6

Time to chill. Formed by a volcanic eruption, this lake is ringed by fiery autumn colors. Perfect spot for a relaxing lakeside lunch (own expense).

Snack time! Sample local specialties like yuba (tofu skin — better than it sounds) and sweet manju buns. Great place to grab souvenirs for the ride home.

Drive back, return the rental car with your guide’s assistance, and wrap up the tour at the meeting point.

What's not included

Car rental fee, fuel, tolls, parking

Admission fees (Toshogu Shrine ¥1,300, Shinkyo crossing ¥300, Kegon Falls elevator ¥570)

Meals

Personal Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

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

Travel time is already included in the duration of the tour

Meeting point

Please meet our guide at the East Exit of Shinjuku Station.

About Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is a bustling metropolis that beautifully blends traditional culture with cutting-edge technology. Known for its neon-lit streets, historic temples, and world-class cuisine, Tokyo offers a unique experience that caters to every type of traveler.

Top Attractions

Senso-ji Temple

Senso-ji is Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple's massive lantern and five-story pagoda are iconic landmarks.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free (small fee for some areas)

Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It is surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing is the world's busiest pedestrian crossing and a symbol of Tokyo's bustling urban life. It's a must-see for its chaotic yet orderly nature.

Cultural 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (¥2,200 for Shibuya Sky)

Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in Japan and the second tallest freestanding structure in the world. It offers breathtaking views of the city.

Architecture 2-3 hours ¥2,100 to ¥3,100 (USD $15 to $22)

Odaiba

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's a great place for families and tech enthusiasts.

Entertainment Half day to full day Varies by attraction

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Fresh raw fish served on vinegared rice, a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Dinner Contains fish, can be vegetarian with substitutes.

Ramen

Noodle soup with various broths and toppings, a popular comfort food.

Lunch/Dinner Vegan and vegetarian options available.

Tempura

Deep-fried seafood and vegetables, known for its crispy texture.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and deep-fried ingredients.

Okonomiyaki

Savory pancake with various ingredients, often topped with sauce and bonito flakes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and can be made vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Parasailing at Odaiba Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Traditional tea ceremonies Kimono rentals and photo shoots Boat tours on the Sumida River Beach activities at Odaiba

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring) and September to November (Autumn)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. However, these are also the busiest times for tourism.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Tokyo is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on public order. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and check fares before getting in.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Narita International Airport • 60 km (37 miles) from city center
Haneda Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station

By bus

Tokyo Station Bus Terminal, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Tokyo's subway system is efficient, clean, and punctual. It consists of multiple lines operated by Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Shibuya Shinjuku Asakusa Ginza Akihabara

Day trips

Nikko

120 km (75 miles) from Tokyo • Full day

Nikko is a city known for its beautiful shrines, temples, and natural scenery. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Kamakura

50 km (31 miles) from Tokyo • Half day to full day

Kamakura is a coastal town known for its historic temples, shrines, and the Great Buddha statue. It's a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Hakone

90 km (56 miles) from Tokyo • Full day or overnight

Hakone is a hot spring resort town known for its onsen (hot springs), scenic views of Mount Fuji, and the Open-Air Museum. It's a popular destination for relaxation and nature.

Festivals

Sannō Matsuri • Mid-June (every 2 years) Kanda Matsuri • Mid-May (every 2 years) Sumida River Fireworks Festival • Last Saturday of July

Pro tips

Use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenient and discounted public transport.
Download useful apps like Google Maps, Japan Transit Planner, and Japan Travel by Navitime.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Carry cash, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.