1 Day Tour Explore Nikko’s World Heritage and National Park

Tokyo , Japan

1 Day Tour Explore Nikko’s World Heritage and National Park

Active

(5 reviews)

10h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Please note that this tour does not use a private vehicle and uses public transport. This tour involves several hours of walking in the outdoors.

If you want to see some of Japan’s most beautiful and culturally significant temples, shrines, traditional architecture and natural landmarks, then this tour is for you. With Nikko being two hours from Tokyo, it is the perfect day trip outside of the capital! Granted World Heritage status in 1999, Nikko is considered the heritage hub in Japan due to its many temples and shrines rich in history with many an interesting tale to tell! It is also known for its national park nestled among the lush mountainous landscape sure to impress you and leave you feeling refreshed on your return to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo! Marvel at the gold gilded shrines, the intricate wood carvings and the nature that surrounds you as you make your way through Nikko’s World Heritage site with your tour guide!

Available options

1 Day Tour Explore Nikko’s World Heritage and National Park

What's included

Nikko Heritage Area Pass and limited express tickets to cover all your transport for the tour

Toshogu Shrine and Museum admission fees

English speaking guide

Taiyuin Temple Admission fee

Tamozawa Villa admission fee

Detailed itinerary

Our first destination will be a small gorge surrounded by lush greenery and trees off the beaten path in Nikko. We will walk alongside the crystal clear river as your tour guide tells you all about the gorge’s famous inhabitants, the Bake Jizo statues! (Ghost Jizo). It is said there are 70 Jizo statues lining the path of the gorge, but legend says that the number changes each time you count them! So make sure to test this for yourself! Keep your eyes peeled as you will also spot some Sanskrit characters carved into the cliff upstream! There is even a small waterfall here to enjoy.

Stop 2

Our next stop is an historic and traditional Japanese villa where you can enjoy the traditional architecture and garden. Enjoy stepping back in time as you walk around the Edo and Meiji period building which has been home to many historically important people. From the Tokugawa Shogunate to the Imperial Family, your guide will tell you all about its former residents. Look out for the beautifully painted and decorated cedar wooden doors around the villa!

Located at the start of the World Heritage site and National Park in Nikko, this bridge is ranked one of the top three scenic bridges in all of Japan! Constructed in 1636, this bridge has lived to see many people cross its path. Enjoy the scenic views and of course take some wonderful photos!

The Heritage Site is home to some of the most elaborate and gorgeous structures in all of Japan adorned in gold leaf, vibrant colours and wood carvings, so make sure to take plenty of pictures! For our first destination we will visit Taiyuin Temple, the temple where the third Tokugawa Shogunate ’Tokugawa Iemitsu’ is enshrined and buried. The temple complex is adorned with elaborate decoration and amazing Buddhist statues. Inside the main hall, you can see the Samurai armour that Tokugawa Iemitsu once wore.

Stop 5

Our next destination will be the star of the show in our opinion, Toshogu Shrine! Some of the most notable sites here will be the lavish Nikko Toshogu shrine where Japan’s most famous and powerful Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined. You will also see the wood carvings of the famous ’Nemuri-Neko’ (sleeping cat) and the ’Three Wise Monkeys’, and you will visit the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu. We will also be visiting the museum which houses artefacts from the time of Tokugawa Ieyasu, including his armour, swords and personal items.

What's not included

Trains and transport before and after the tour

Additional food and drink

Shinkyo Bridge

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The remaining amount of time is allocated to transport.

Meeting point

Meet your tour guide outside of the EKIMISE Store. You will recognize the building entrance as it has Ekimise and Matsuya written across it. Meet your guide by the red post box just directly outside of the store/ train station entrance.

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.