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3 Days in Nikko
Visiting Nikko will certainly add more depth into your understanding of Japanese history and spirituality. Nikko is one of the richest places culturally and naturally in Japan. It is sure to leave a strong impression on any visitors.
Duration
3 days
Theme
Historical and scenic sightseeing
Group size
Min 2 people
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Tour Overview
Tour Extension (ONLY available with any of the Journey to the East Small Group Tours or as an add on to a Private Tour.)
The Shrines and Temples of Nikko are designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a single complex located in an outstanding natural setting. Many of the religious buildings were constructed in the 17th century. However, the first buildings were built on the slopes of the sacred Nikko mountains by a Buddhist monk in the 8th century.
Today, they testify to the centuries-old tradition of conservation and restoration, as well as the preservation of religious practices linked to a site considered to be sacred. The setting is closely associated with prominent chapters of Japanese history, especially those relating to the symbolic figure of the great Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543-1616).
The area is also a National Park and travelling further into Oku-Nikko (literally means ‘deep Nikko’) reveals one of the most scenic places in Japan with pristine lakes, waterfalls and mountains. The beauty is especially appreciated at autumn time.
Nikko is only a couple of hours from Tokyo, and well-worth an overnight trip (or more) to visit both the Toshogu Shrine complex and Oku-Nikko. This model itinerary, 3 Days in Nikko will show you some examples of what you can do in Nikko.
Important notes about our model itineraries:
Our model itineraries are developed to show viewers the ideas for an itinerary and price guide. The itineraries can be further customized, and the accommodation and guide time can be adjusted to suit you. The number of people in your group will affect the price, too. We will give you more firm quotation once we develop your personal itinerary.
ようこそ
welcome
Itinerary
Day 1: Guided tour of Nikko
This morning you take trains from Tokyo to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Nikko with your guide. On the first day, we suggest you have a guided tour of Toshogu Shrine Complex. It is on vast grounds with many significant monuments. Your guide will inform you of its historical and spiritual background.
Nearby Tomozawa Villa is a former Nikko residence of the Imperial Family. It is open to the public and a great place to see the high quality architecture of Edo and early Meiji periods. We also highly recommend a stroll along the Kanmangafuchi Abyss with its many stone statues wearing a red cap and bib.
If you would like to stay in a traditional ryokan, Nikko has many high quality ones to offer, and there are limited western style rooms too.
Dinner
Nikko
Private guide for 8 hours
Trains (private vehicle option available)
Day 2: Oku-Nikko
This morning we suggest you use a private vehicle and guide to go up to Oku-Nikko before day trippers arrive. Akechi Daira ropeway is a great way to view Nikko's mountains and the prominent Kegon Fall from above. Chuzenjiko Lake is the central feature of the area with many beautiful spots around it. In the autumn season, we definitely recommend a visit to Ryuzu waterfall and perhaps Yunotaki waterfall. There are some splendid hiking trails for those who love walking.
You will stay one more night in Nikko.
Breakfast (Japanese style), Dinner
Nikko
Self-guided
Private vehicle in Nikko
Day 3: Tokyo
After breakfast at your hotel, this itinerary for 3 Days in Nikko concludes, and you will take train back to Tokyo. However, Nikko has so much more to see and do including Nikko Edo Wonderland theme park. So, if you want to extend your stay in Nikko please let us know.
Breakfast (Japanese style)
None
Self-guided transfer
Trains back to Tokyo
Inclusions
Includes
- 2 nights accommodation
- Meals as specified
- Trains to and from Tokyo, and private vehicle on Day 2.
- Locally licensed English speaking tour guides and his/her expenses
Excludes
- International and domestic airfare (unless otherwise stated)
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Tips and gratuities (not routinely expected in Japan)
- Entrance fees to attractions
- Personal expenses (laundry, internet, telephone, coin lockers etc.)
- Visa (if required)
- Travel insurance