What is Nikko most famous for?

Nikko is best known for Toshogu, the lavishly decorated UNESCO shrine and mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and for the natural beauty of Nikko National Park, including Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji, especially during autumn foliage.

Are Nikko's attractions free?

Several are: viewing the Shinkyo Bridge, walking the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, the cedar avenue, and seeing Lake Chuzenji cost nothing. The shrines, temples, and the Kegon Falls elevator charge small fees, typically 200-1,300 yen.

The Best Things to Do in Nikko (2026)

The Best Things to Do in Nikko

Nikko's highlights split between its lavish UNESCO shrines and the waterfalls and lakes of the surrounding national park. These are the experiences worth building your trip around. Save the ones that appeal and slot them into your own itinerary.

1Must visit

Shrine5.0

Toshogu Shrine

Japan's most lavishly decorated shrine, the gold-leaf mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, with the famous monkeys and the Sleeping Cat.

Architecture

Toshogu Yomeimon Gate

Toshogu's National Treasure gate, smothered in over 500 carvings, so ornate it is nicknamed the 'all-day gate.'

Toshogu Shrine, Nikko

Scenic Spot4.0

Kegon Falls

A 97-metre cascade from Lake Chuzenji, one of Japan's three most beautiful waterfalls. Take the elevator down for the close-up.

4Must visit

Scenic Spot5.0

Shinkyo Bridge (Sacred Bridge)

The vermilion Sacred Bridge over the Daiya River, counted among Japan's three finest bridges and the gateway to the shrines.

Scenic Spot4.0

Lake Chuzenji

A pristine crater lake at 1,269 metres, ringed by mountains and stunning in autumn. Cruise it, walk it, or just take in the reflections.

6Must visit

Temple4.0

Rinnoji Temple

Nikko's great Buddhist temple with three giant gold-lacquered Buddhas and the serene Shoyo-en garden.

Park4.0

Kanmangafuchi Abyss

A lava gorge lined with 70-plus moss-covered 'ghost Jizo' statues, free and atmospheric, especially in morning mist.

8Must visit

Shrine4.0

Futarasan Shrine

One of Nikko's oldest shrines, dedicated to the sacred mountains, peaceful and easy on the budget at 200 yen.

Nature

Nikko Cedar Avenue

Towering cryptomeria cedars planted in the 1600s line the shrine approach, a UNESCO-listed avenue out of another era.

Approach to Toshogu Shrine

Nature

Ryuzu Falls

The 'Dragon's Head' falls north of Lake Chuzenji, splitting around a rock and blazing with maples each October.

North of Lake Chuzenji

FAQ

What is Nikko most famous for?: Nikko is best known for Toshogu, the lavishly decorated UNESCO shrine and mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, and for the natural beauty of Nikko National Park, including Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji, especially during autumn foliage.
Are Nikko's attractions free?: Several are: viewing the Shinkyo Bridge, walking the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, the cedar avenue, and seeing Lake Chuzenji cost nothing. The shrines, temples, and the Kegon Falls elevator charge small fees, typically 200-1,300 yen.

Make it your trip

Save these places and build your own Nikko itinerary in TripBox.