[2025 Nikko Attraction] Travel Guide for Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple (Updated Jan)

It must be the limit for my personal day trip around Tokyo. The reason why it's considered the limit mainly lies in two aspects: The first is the limit of effort. Starting from the Tokyo metropolitan area (such as Ueno), it's about 110 kilometers, roughly 1500 yen, and takes two and a half hours to arrive. The return trip costs 3200 yen by limited express, taking more than two hours to return. Both the time spent and the cost are the limits for my day-return trips. The second is the limit of gains. As a World Heritage site, Nikko has both cultural historical relics and natural scenery, with information fully packed. With mountains, water, and temples, and various experiences to enjoy when the weather is good, it is a perfect tourist destination away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Here's my travel route: In the morning, I set off from Ueno, arrived at Tobu-Nikko Station, wandered around after getting off, and walked to Shinkyo Bridge, a stunning red amidst the greenery. Even more surprising was the 300 yen fee to cross the bridge, and the exit was still sealed off... From the sealed-off exit opposite Shinkyo Bridge, I entered a small grove and headed to Rinno-ji Temple. Friends who are not interested in religion can just take a look from the outside. Like me, spending over 400 yen to enter and being glared at by unknown deities was simply a loss. After that, I followed the signs to Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which is the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu and one of Japan's most lavish shrines. The admission fee was 1600 yen, worthy of the great shogun, contributing to Japan's revenue with utmost dedication. I don't know much about history, but the carvings here felt very exquisite, especially the 'Three Wise Monkeys' and the 'Sleeping Cat' carvings, which were quite charming. Leaving Toshogu, I went to Rinno-ji Temple's Taiyuin Mausoleum (part of the earlier Rinno-ji ticket), and there were still a few autumn leaves inside, making me imagine the beauty of this place during the fall foliage season... From Taiyuin, I walked to Futarasan Jinja Shrine. This shrine worships the deity of Mount Nantai and has a history of over 1200 years. At the entrance, there's a wooden drum for praying for good relationships, with a merit box placed beside it. I took a right turn from the exit in front of Futarasan Jinja Shrine and took a bus, where I encountered the most beautiful Lawson 2.0 The final stop was Lake Chuzenji, a beautiful volcanic crater lake. It exists so comfortably, with the greenery of the surrounding mountains and the rippling blue waves, I couldn't help but imagine how the autumn leaves by the lake must be breathtakingly beautiful. Kegon Falls, located a two-minute walk from Lake Chuzenji, is one of Japan's three famous waterfalls. The waterfall is about 97 meters high, and from the observation deck, you can feel the magnificence and shock of the waterfall up close. The lower observation deck costs 570 yen. After an hour on the bus, is this additional 500+ yen really necessary? In summary, Nikko is truly a versatile tourist destination. You must choose a day with good weather to go, as sunny days make historical sites less gloomy, and the natural scenery under the blue sky and white clouds is simply unbeatable. Even though the transportation and sightseeing costs are high, the experience is really good, and I must return during the autumn foliage season.

Nikko, a World Heritage city in Japan, is located about 140 kilometers from Tokyo. Tourism in Nikko is divided into two zones: ⛩️ World Heritage Zone 🎋 Nature Zone Tourist attractions in Nikko: 📍 Nikko Toshogu Shrine 📍 Taiyuin Temple 📍 Futarasan Shrine 📍 Shinkyo Bridge 📍 Rinnoji Temple 📍 Kanmangafuchi Abyss 📍 Lake Chuzenji 📍 Kegon Falls 📍 Akechidaira Ropeway 📍 Edo Wonderland Due to the numerous attractions, it is recommended to spend at least two days and one night here to make the visit worthwhile. Don't forget to try the fried buns, they are very delicious. For traveling within Nikko, you can purchase a Nikko Pass which allows free rides on trains and buses, and also offers discounts on entrance fees to various attractions.

The architectural complex known as the "Shrines and Temples of Nikko," centered around Futarasan Shrine, Toshogu Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple, was designated as Japan's tenth World Heritage Site in 1999. Toshogu Shrine is the most famous shrine in Nikko, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period. The current shrine buildings were largely reconstructed in 1636 by the third shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu. The site features 55 buildings, including eight national treasures and 34 important cultural properties, showcasing the craftsmanship of artisans from across Japan. The total cost of construction, estimated in modern terms, ranges from 40 billion to 100 billion yen, representing the pinnacle of opulence and grandeur. Futarasan Shrine, established in 766 by Shodo Shonin, venerates Mount Nantai as a sacred object. It is a prominent center of mountain worship in the region, covering 3,400 hectares within Nikko National Park. The shrine is renowned for its efficacy in granting blessings, safe childbirth, and matchmaking. Rinnoji Temple, founded 1,200 years ago by Shodo Shonin, features the Sanbutsudo, the largest wooden structure in Nikko, housing three massive Buddha statues representing the local deities of Nikko's three mountains. The temple complex includes the Gomado Hall, which enshrines the gods of fortune, and the Treasure House, displaying national treasures and important cultural properties. Mount Nantai, a majestic volcano standing at 2,486 meters, is a sacred object of worship for the Nikko shrines. It offers a challenging 4-kilometer hiking trail open from May 5 to October 25 each year. Lake Chuzenji, located at the foot of Mount Nantai at an elevation of 1,269 meters, was formed by volcanic activity around 20,000 years ago. It became an international summer resort in the 19th and 20th centuries, attracting foreign diplomats and villa owners. The 25-kilometer lakeside walking route offers views of azaleas in early summer and autumn foliage.

Last October, I was stuck in traffic at Nikko's Chuzenji Lake and missed visiting the World Heritage sites, which I regretted. Initially, I planned to visit Toshogu Shrine on the morning of the 2nd and then head to Tsuchiura in the afternoon. However, the fireworks event was canceled, and changing tickets took time, so I rescheduled my Nikko trip to the 3rd. With the Wide Area Pass, I didn't buy a limited express ticket from Asakusa Tobu but instead traveled from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya and then transferred to the Nikko Line. This route had a flaw; staying at the Sunshine City Prince Hotel in Ikebukuro, I could have taken the JR Shonan Line to Omiya and transferred to the Shinkansen to Utsunomiya, saving time. I wasn't aware that the Wide Area Pass allowed free rides on all JR lines in Tokyo, and I wanted to ensure a seat at Tokyo Station. It turned out that by the time the train reached Ueno, there were no seats in the unreserved section, so it worked out by chance. Upon arriving at Nikko Station, I planned to take a bus to Shinkyo Bridge, but the staff advised against it, saying it was a ten-minute walk while the bus would take 50 minutes. Indeed, private cars and buses were moving at a snail's pace. The first stop was Shinkyo Bridge, which wasn't crowded, and I took some nice photos. Then I visited Rinnoji Temple and was shocked at the queues at Toshogu Shrine. There were lines to enter the gate, buy tickets, see the Sleeping Cat, and enter the main hall. By 3 PM, staff were holding signs to stop more people from queuing. Japan's three-day holidays are truly overwhelming. On the way back, I kept seeing posts on Xiaohongshu about the traffic jams in Nikko. Fortunately, with last year's experience and a morning reminder, I walked the entire way and returned to Tokyo smoothly. The World Heritage sites are worth seeing, especially with the autumn foliage at Chuzenji Lake and the beauty of Akechidaira and Kinugawa's hot springs, making it a popular Japanese vacation spot. However, a day trip is too uncertain; staying overnight in the mountains is necessary for a fulfilling experience. Lastly, a tip: skip the Toshogu Shrine Treasure Museum. The 800 yen ticket wasn't worth it; we left after five minutes. If you must go, it's on the second floor of Ueshima Coffee, not inside the main gate of Toshogu Shrine!

Yesterday, I stayed at the historic Nikko Kanaya Hotel, which has been around for over a century. Just down the hill from the hotel is the Shinkyo Bridge, which looks particularly atmospheric in the drizzle. The walk from the hotel to Tobu Nikko Station is lined with local delicacies. I tried fried noodles, Nikko pudding, yuba, and the famous tofu. This morning, the sky cleared up, and I visited the two shrines and one temple: Rinnoji Temple, Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, and Taiyuin Mausoleum. Toshogu Shrine was crowded, with many school groups visiting. I rented an audio guide, which highlighted many features inspired by Chinese stories, such as the Three Wise Monkeys from Confucius's teachings, the carving of Sima Guang breaking the jar, and the Tang Gate. Taiyuin Mausoleum was much less crowded and surrounded by dense vegetation. Although it isn't as lavish as Toshogu Shrine, it offers a peaceful atmosphere. The autumn leaves haven't turned red yet, but they will be beautiful in a couple of weeks. Futarasan Shrine was less impressive, with the main attraction being a large golden rabbit. After leaving Futarasan, I took a bus two stops back to Shinkyo Bridge. For lunch, I dined at Myogetsubo, a restaurant with a unique Japanese garden near the bridge, where the steak was delicious. I returned to Asakusa on the Tobu Limited Express. With some time before my evening flight, I searched for a highly-rated matcha specialty shop called Reicha and tried their signature rich matcha ice cream, which came with a cute little bear on top. The matcha flavor was rich and aromatic. My three-day, two-night trip to Nikko has come to an end. I hope to return when the autumn leaves are at their peak. #MyUniqueTravelGuide #NikkoToshoguShrine

Nikko's World Heritage Sites are primarily composed of the Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple, each representing different spiritual influences. Toshogu is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, whose mausoleum is located here, making it the most prestigious among similar shrines across Japan. The Yomeimon Gate, with its vibrant white and gold hues, stands out, while other structures feature red, black, and gold tones. Visitors often seek out the famous 'see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil' monkeys and the sleeping cat, which guards the gate. Futarasan Shrine is part of Shinto, and Rinnoji Temple belongs to the Tendai sect of Buddhism, originating from Tiantai Mountain in Zhejiang. The bell and drum towers here differ from those in other regions, highlighting the cultural influence of architecture. Reflecting on these ancient structures, one realizes the profound impact of cultural exchange, unlike today's reliance on institutions like the Confucius Institute. In the afternoon, I ventured into Nikko's natural landscapes, which offer numerous hiking trails such as the Kirifuri Highlands, Senjogahara, and Akanuma, as well as Edo-era villages and the Kinugawa River. I chose a less strenuous path to visit the Tachiki Kannon, a branch of Rinnoji Temple, and the surrounding villa area. This scenic spot was first discovered by Shodo Shonin, the founder of Nikko, and the villas were built as embassies by Western powers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with some in use until the late 20th or early 21st century. The area's recognition in the West began with a travelogue by a British knight who built a villa here. Visitors can purchase tickets, remove their shoes, and enjoy coffee on a sofa, with the last image capturing the picturesque view from this vantage point.

Previously, I recommended the JR Wide Area Pass, which covers travel to Nikko. However, since I used it for trips to Yuzawa for skiing and to Karuizawa for church visits, the 3-day validity wasn't enough for Nikko. But don't worry, there's a more affordable Tobu Pass for Nikko. The pass comes in two types: a 4-day and a 2-day version. I opted for the 2-day pass, which includes regular train rides from Asakusa to Tobu Nikko Station, excluding express trains, and bus tickets for the Nikko World Heritage area and Kinugawa area. Important note: the express train is not included, but you can pay extra for it. However, to save money, if you plan a day trip, make sure to catch the 6:50 AM slow train. You'll transfer at Tobu Zoo and Minami-Kurihashi, arriving in Nikko at 9:18 AM, just over half an hour later than the express. Later trains take nearly an hour longer, so for a same-day return, this train is essential. Upon arrival, you can take the World Heritage Loop Bus around 9:30 AM to the vicinity of Toshogu Shrine, your first stop. Nikko's World Heritage sites include two shrines and one temple: Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple. Toshogu Shrine is a highlight, being the main shrine in Nikko and a Japanese national treasure, built during the Edo period as the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu. It's one of the most ornate temples I've visited in Japan. Notable sights include the Sacred Stable with carvings of the Three Wise Monkeys, embodying the Confucian principle "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil." Other highlights are the Copper Torii, the National Treasure Yomeimon Gate, the Inner Shrine, and the famous Sleeping Cat carving above the entrance. Arriving early means fewer crowds and perfect sunlight, allowing you to stroll leisurely, enjoy the views, or sit quietly. Don't miss the goshuin (temple stamps) and omamori (charms), and remember to bring cash. Futarasan Shrine is an ancient shrine, the source of Nikko's mountain faith. It enshrines Okuninushi no Mikoto, the god of matchmaking, known for its blessings in relationships. The shrine is small but features a sacred spring; drink a few sips for free, but there's a charge to take some home. The Seven Lucky Gods are also worth visiting. Taiyuin uses a black and gold color scheme, giving it a solemn and dignified feel. The temple's 315 stone lanterns are impressive, and it features a 500-year-old Kongozakura cherry tree, which blooms beautifully in spring. In autumn, the temple's Japanese garden offers stunning views of the fall foliage. Rinnoji Temple encompasses various Buddhist halls, pagodas, and 15 temples scattered across Nikko. The Sanbutsudo is the largest wooden structure in Nikko, housing statues of Kannon, Amida, and Bato Kannon. It also features a newly unveiled statue of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Shinkyo Bridge is a beautiful vermilion wooden bridge at the entrance to Nikko, considered one of Japan's three great bridges alongside Saruhashi in Yamanashi and Kintaikyo in Yamaguchi. There's a fee to cross, but you can admire it from the roadside. After your visit, you can stroll back to the station. The slow train around 5 PM will get you back to Tokyo by 8 PM. #NikkoTravelGuide #TokyoDayTrips #ChildfreeCoupleAdventures

Cross the Sacred 'Shinkyo Bridge' The 'Shinkyo Bridge' is a symbol of Nikko tourism and is also listed as a World Heritage site. Known for its vermilion bridge, it dates back to the Nara period and is a sacred bridge and power spot. It is conveniently accessible from the 'Shinkyo' bus stop. However, due to frequent road congestion near the JR and Tobu 'Nikko Station,' walking is sometimes a good option, taking about 20 minutes. Additionally, 'Shinkyo Bridge' serves as the entrance to the two shrines and one temple, so it's recommended to visit them together. Experience the Splendor of Architecture at 'Nikko Toshogu Shrine' 'Nikko Toshogu Shrine' is the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo Shogunate. It underwent major renovations during the era of the third shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, and is known for its numerous unique carvings and splendid architectural beauty. As one of Nikko's two shrines and one temple, it is a must-visit. It is a 10-minute walk from the 'Nishi Sando Tobu Tourist Center' bus stop. As one of Nikko's most popular attractions, it is crowded on weekends and holidays, so visiting in the morning is recommended to avoid crowds. Visit the Power Spot 'Futarasan Shrine' 'Futarasan Shrine' is one of Nikko's proud two shrines and one temple and was the center of Nikko mountain worship until 'Nikko Toshogu Shrine' was built. It is said to help with matchmaking and maintaining healthy skin and is one of Nikko's most representative power spots. It is a 7-minute walk from the 'Nishi Sando Tobu Tourist Center' bus stop, or you can walk directly from the 'Taiyuin Futarasan Shrine' bus stop. The two shrines and one temple are very close, so it's recommended to visit 'Nikko Toshogu Shrine' together. Feel the Weight of History at 'Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple' 'Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple' is one of Nikko's two shrines and one temple and is considered the birthplace of Nikko faith. The bright vermilion main hall is striking. With a history of 1,250 years, it is a place where you can feel the weight of history. It is a 5-minute walk from the 'Shinkyo' bus stop, or you can walk from the 'Shodo Shonin Statue' stop. It is very close to 'Nikko Toshogu Shrine' and 'Futarasan Shrine,' so visiting them together is recommended. #JapanTravelCustomTours #HotSprings #NikkoToshoguShrine #NikkoFutarasanShrine #NikkoShinkyoBridge #NikkozanRinnojiTemple

Nikko's World Heritage site is a vast complex, mainly divided into four parts: Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, Futarasan Shrine, and Taiyuin Mausoleum. You can purchase a combined ticket for Rinnoji Temple and Taiyuin Mausoleum for 1000 yen, while Futarasan Shrine is free. Toshogu Shrine requires a separate ticket, with an adult ticket priced at 1600 yen, or 2400 yen if you include the Treasure Hall. However, the Treasure Hall might not be worth the extra cost, as the main attractions can be seen with the 1600 yen ticket. The Five-Story Pagoda costs an additional 300 yen, but it might not be worth it just to see the interior carvings. On the other hand, the 500 yen audio guide is highly recommended for its convenience and informative content. Nikko is closely associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu, as it is the main shrine dedicated to him. The shrine is one of the most ornate in Japan, with the Yomeimon Gate being the most magnificent, followed closely by the Karamon Gate. There are many auxiliary buildings, such as the Kaguraden, Rinzou, and Prayer Hall. A short hike leads to the Okunoin, where Tokugawa Ieyasu's tomb is located. Other interesting sites include the Shinyoden, which houses festival palanquins representing Tokugawa Ieyasu, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and Minamoto no Yoritomo. The Treasure Hall offers a closer look at these artifacts. The Crying Dragon Hall is another highlight, where the echo of bamboo clappers resembles a dragon's roar. Visitors must remove their shoes to enter the main shrine and photography is prohibited. Although it's a Shinto shrine, it features many Buddhist and Confucian elements, such as the famous 'see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil' monkeys. Visitors can also find familiar Chinese cultural references, like the story of Sima Guang breaking the vat.

🍁 With the magnificent mountains and pure water sources blessed by nature in all four seasons, and adjacent to the Nikko Tamozawa Memorial Park, Fufu Nikko is located here. Overlooking the vibrant trees of Nikko, feeling the breeze, and feeling the history of Nikko in a nostalgic and elegant atmosphere✨ - 【Fufu Nikko】 🛌 Only 24 suites, mainly in Japanese style, with modern decoration style as a supplement, the two are perfectly integrated, a large amount of log furniture looks harmonious and comfortable, the original spring flower fragrance is refreshing 🛁 The private soup in each room uses the same natural hot spring as the exclusive source of this museum, and YOKOU organic washing and care products rejuvenate the skin after the hot spring🎎 🛋 The room types are divided into simple suites, comfortable suites, enjoyable suites, noble suites, Fufu luxury corner suites and Fufu luxury noble suites - 【🍱Unique Flavor】 🍣 Japanese Cuisine 'Jiezhong': Kaiseki full meal uses the three major delicacies in Japan and the world, cleverly blending Japanese and Western styles; facing the beautiful riverside and dense forest, presented with the royal porcelain kiln of Japan, the bowls are transparent, the cups and plates are gold-plated, showing the luxury of Nikko Holy Land 🍳 Teppanyaki 'Hou': Created by the chef's ingenuity and exquisite skills, the full set of delicious dishes like a palace is sure to make you feast 🍵 Fufu Leisure Hall: Enjoy original black tea and 24 solar term themed afternoon tea, drink champagne in the evening, and the Bar open until midnight, different highlights at different times 🍙 Breakfast: Made with selected high-quality ingredients from Tochigi Prefecture, open the food box like a beautiful gift, and taste the joy brought by local rich ingredients - 【♨️Tamozawa Hot Spring】 ♨️ The alkaline Tamozawa hot spring is a gentle and low-stimulus national hot spring that anyone can safely bathe in. It has the effects of calming and helping sleep, cleaning pore dirt, etc., feeling the cold wind and warm hot spring, and troubles go away🌪 🌊 In addition to the private soup, there are open-air baths and outdoor baths in the museum. The natural hot spring is introduced into the hotel through the exclusive spring source, and soaking in the gentle hot spring is like bathing in nature - 【🌈Exclusive Experience】 🙏 Nikko Toshogu Shrine: The shrine where Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined, at the least crowded time, the exclusive guide leads guests to visit the most gorgeous and sacred 'General's Room' that is not open to the public 💦 Rimi Waterfall: Put on a diving suit and slide down the valley with the cool water flow. The exciting natural water slide and pool allow you to experience the unity of nature 🏯 Nikko Mountain Rurikoji: Have a mental experience focused on yourself in the World Heritage Site, get away from troubles, empty your mind, and examine yourself. Listen to the abbot's preaching and experience private meditation 🚴 Cycling Tour: Ride a bicycle through Nikko town and World Heritage, feel the fresh mountains and gurgling water 🏄 Chuzenji Lake Walking and Boating: Stroll in the undeveloped forest by Chuzenji Lake, experience single boating