Lavish shrines, waterfalls & autumn color
Nikko
日光 · Shrines in the cedars
A sacred mountain town of towering cedars and Japan’s most opulent shrine complex. Nikko blends the gilded Toshogu mausoleum with dramatic waterfalls, a highland lake and spectacular autumn foliage in the peaks above.
Top sightsSights
Toshogu Shrine
The lavishly carved mausoleum of shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, dripping in gold and famous carvings.
Shinkyo Bridge
A vivid vermilion sacred bridge arching over the rushing Daiya River.
Kegon Falls
A thunderous 97m waterfall plunging from Lake Chuzenji, stunning in autumn.
Lake Chuzenji
A highland lake ringed by peaks, reached via the hairpin Irohazaka road.
Kanmangafuchi Abyss
A riverside walk lined by a row of mossy stone Jizo statues.
What to eatFood
Yuba
Delicate tofu skin, a Nikko specialty served many ways.
Nikko soba
Buckwheat noodles made with pure mountain water.
Grilled dango
Skewered rice dumplings with sweet-savory glaze near the shrines.
Good to know
- Autumn foliage (mid-October to early November) is spectacular but crowded.
- The Irohazaka switchbacks to the lake can jam in peak season — go early.
- A World Heritage Pass covers the main shrines and temples.
Getting there
About 2 hours from Tokyo (Asakusa) via the Tobu Line limited express to Tobu-Nikko.
Next city
Kanazawa