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The Ultimate Tochigi Travel Guide | Hot Springs, Food, Experiences & Getting There
https://att-japan.net/ja/tochigi-sightseeing-guide/
The Ultimate Tochigi Area Guide | Things to Do in Central, Southern & Eastern Tochigi
https://att-japan.net/ja/tochigi-central-east-south-sightseeing-spots/
One of the prefecture’s top tourist destinations, where numerous shrines and temples, including the World Heritage Site “Shrines and Temples of Nikko,” coexist with magnificent natural scenery.
This shrine was established in 1617 to enshrine Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Shogunate, who laid the foundation for 260 years of peace. The gorgeously decorated shrine buildings, adorned with vivid colors, are truly breathtaking. Intricate carvings featuring animals, including the famous Three Monkeys, are also highlights not to be missed.
Access: Shinkyo or Nishisando Iriguchi bus stop → 10 min walk
Business hours: April–October 8:00–17:00, November–March 9:00–16:00 *Admission until 30 min. before closing
Regular holiday: Open 365 days
TEL: 0288-54-0560
URL: https://www.visitnikko.jp/en/spots/nikko-toshogu-shrine/
With a history of over 1,250 years, this temple has long been central to religious mountain worship in Nikko. The Sanbutsudo Hall, one of the largest wooden structures in eastern Japan, is truly awe-inspiring. Within the hall stand three statues of Buddha, each measuring 7.5 meters in height.
Access: Shinkyo or Nishisando Iriguchi bus stop → 10 min walk
Business hours: April–October 8:00–17:00, November–March 8:00–16:00 *Admission until 30 min. before closing
Regular holiday: Open 365 days
TEL: 0288-54-0531
URL: https://www.rinnoji.or.jp/
This ancient shrine, which enshrines Mt. Nantai (also known as Futarasan), has a history of over 1,250 years. The Honden Main Hall is the oldest surviving structure in Nikko and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
Access: Shinkyo or Nishisando Iriguchi bus stop → 10 min walk
Business hours: April–October 8:00–17:00, November–March 9:00–16:00 *Admission until 30 min. before closing
Regular holiday: Open 365 days
TEL: 0288-54-0535
URL: https://www.futarasan.info/en/list.html
This vermilion-lacquered bridge marks the entrance of the World Heritage Site “Shrines and Temples of Nikko” and belongs to Nikko Futarasan-jinja Shrine. It is considered a sacred structure associated with the legendary founding of Nikko.
Access: Shinkyo bus stop → Short walk
TEL: 0288-54-0535 (Nikko Futarasan-jinja Shrine)
URL: https://www.futarasan.info/en/list_d.html?0:9
Constructed in 1899 as an imperial villa for Prince Yoshihito (later Emperor Taisho), this large wooden building complex with 106 rooms is the only one with an existing Honden main hall among the imperial villas built in the Meiji Period (1868-1912).
Access: Nikko Tamozawa Goyotei Kinenkoen bus stop → Short walk
Business hours: April–October 9:00–17:00 (admission until 16:00), November–March 9:00–16:30 (admission until 15:45)
Regular holiday: Tuesdays (or the following day when it falls on a national holiday), December 29 to January 1
TEL: 0288-53-6767
URL: https://www.park-tochigi.com/tamozawa/news/info/english
Located at an altitude of about 1,200 meters, this highland is a paradise for various alpine plants. It is especially famous for the Nikko kisuge (broad dwarf day lily), which reaches its peak bloom in early July. The flower fields have well-maintained walking paths and observation decks, making it easy for even beginner hikers to enjoy nature.
Access: Kirifuri Kogen bus stop (104) → Short walk (closed in winter)
TEL: 0288-53-5337
URL: http://www.kirifuri-kogen.jp/
At an altitude of 1,269 meters, Lake Chuzenji is one of Japan’s highest lakes. The lake showcases beautiful scenery throughout the seasons, from vibrant fresh greenery in early summer to brilliant autumn foliage reflecting on the lake’s surface. A sightseeing cruise, SUP, or kayaking is a great way to enjoy the scenic view from the lake. The lakeshore is dotted with former embassy villas, restaurants, and onsen inns.
Access: Chuzenji-onsen bus stop → 5 min walk
URL: https://www.visitnikko.jp/en/spots/lake-chuzenji/
Located on the north shore of Lake Chuzenji, Mt. Nantai, with an altitude of 2,486 meters, has been worshipped since the 8th century, shaping the history of Nikko as a sacred site. Nikko Futarasan-jinja Chugushi Shrine stands at the foot of the mountain, and the Futarasan-jinja Okumiya Shrine is located at the summit, allowing climbers to pay their respects along the way.
Access: Futarasan-jinja Chugushi bus stop → Short walk
URL: https://visitnikko.jp/en/spots/mt-nantai/
Kegon Falls, one of the Three Great Waterfalls of Japan, offers a breathtaking sight as water plunges 97 meters down a sheer cliff face. Take an elevator down to near the base to feel the powerful roar and mist of the fall up close.
Access: Chuzenji-onsen bus stop → 5 min walk
Business hours: March–November 8:00–17:00, December–February 9:00–16:30 *Admission until 10 min. before the final elevator departure
Regular holiday: Open 365 days
TEL: 0288-55-0030
URL: http://kegon.jp/
This popular winter festival takes place in the Yunishigawa Onsen area, located in the upstream of the Kinugawa River. At the main venue along the Sawaguchi Riverbank, hundreds of mini Kamakura snow huts are lit with candles, creating a dreamlike landscape. At “Heike no Sato,” a heritage park with thatched-roof houses, you can also enjoy large and small kamakura lit up alongside traditional homes blanketed in snow.
Access: Yunishigawa-onsen bus stop → 5 min walk (Sawaguchi Riverbank)
Business hours: 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm
URL: https://www.visitnikko.jp/en/spots/yunishigawa-onsen-kamakura-snow-house-festival/
Enjoy a 30-minute ride on a traditional Japanese-style boat steered by a boatman, taking in the scenic beauty of the valley. The cruise offers a cool, refreshing escape in summer and stunning views of colorful foliage from the water in autumn.
Access: Kinugawa-onsen Sta. (Tobu) → 4 min walk
Business hours: Mid-April to Late November 9:00–15:45 (12 departures per day)
Regular holiday: Open daily during the operation season (subject to cancellation due to weather or high water levels)
TEL: 0288-77-0531
URL: https://linekudari.com/
This theme park features 1:25-scale replicas of famous ruins and architectural landmarks from around the world, including America, Egypt, Europe, and Asia. Each replica is meticulously detailed and looks just like the real thing. The park is also popular for its unique photo opportunities using optical illusions.
Access: Tobu World Square Sta. (Tobu) → Short walk
Business hours: Please refer to the official website
Regular holiday: Please refer to the official website
TEL: 0288-77-1000
URL: http://en.tobuws.co.jp
A signature attraction of the Kinugawa area, this theme park lets you fully immerse yourself in the culture of the Edo period (1603-1868). Wander through a faithfully recreated Edo townscape, dress up in kimono to become a person of the era, and watch thrilling ninja performances—there’s plenty to experience throughout the day.
Access: Kinugawa-onsen Sta. (Tobu) → 20 min by bus
Business hours: March 20–November 9:00–17:00, December–March 19 9:30–16:00
Regular holiday: Please refer to the official website
TEL: 0288-77-1777
URL: https://edowonderland.net/en/
Surrounded by mountain ranges, this highland resort offers a cool and comfortable climate even in summer. With a variety of leisure facilities, it’s a great destination—especially for family trips.
With a total length of 320 meters, this suspension bridge over the Shiobara Dam Lake can be crossed on foot. The peak season for autumn foliage is from early to mid-November, when you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the colorful mountains from the bridge. At the foot of the bridge is a facility called “Mori no Eki,” which has a shop selling local products and a restaurant.
Access: JR Nasushiobara Sta. → 50 min by bus → Momijidani Otsuribashi bus stop → 5 min walk
Business hours: 8:30–18:00 (November–March 8:30–16:00)
Regular holiday: Open 365 days
TEL: 0287-34-1037 (Mori no Eki)
URL: http://www.takahara-shinrin.or.jp/mori-no-eki/
Starting as a modern Western-style farm, this farm now practices sustainable dairy farming, making use of its vast grounds. Contact with animals, horseback riding, and cycling are very popular with families. Don’t miss the delicious homemade soft-serve ice cream made from high-quality fresh milk.
Access: JR Nishi-Nasuno Sta. → 15 min by bus → Short walk from Senbonmatsu bus stop
Business hours: Varies depending on the facility or store
Regular holiday: Varies depending on the facility or store
TEL: 0120-36-1025
URL: https://www.senbonmatsu.com/
This resort-style outlet mall can be conveniently accessed both by car and by train. With about 130 stores featuring a wide range of brands, it also carries a selection of local fresh vegetables and fruits, as well as Nasu’s local specialties, which are rare for outlet malls.
Access: JR Nasushiobara Sta. → 8 min by free shuttle bus
Business hours: 10:00–19:00 (varies depending on the season)
Regular holiday: Open daily except for one weekday in February
TEL: 0287-65-4999
URL: https://www.nasu-gardenoutlet.com/en/
Mt. Chausu, standing 1,915 meters tall, is the main peak of the Nasu Mountains, located in the northernmost part of Tochigi Prefecture. While this mountain is popular among hikers for its manageable elevation and accessibility, you can also easily reach the 9th station by ropeway. As an active volcano, it still emits white fumes, creating a powerful view of nature. At the foot of the mountain is an onsen hot spring, perfect for relaxing after you hike.
Access: JR Nasushiobara Sta. → 70 min by bus
URL: https://www.tochigiji.or.jp/spot/s10954
Surrounded by the vast nature of Nasu, this amusement park has about 40 different attractions, half of which are available for children under three, attracting many families. An official hotel is located next to the park, making it a perfect place for families to enjoy a relaxed visit.
Access: JR Nasushiobara Sta. → 70 min by bus
Business hours: 9:30–17:00 (varies depending on the season)
Regular holiday: Please refer to the official website
TEL: 0287-78-1150
URL: https://www.nasuhai.co.jp/
Gorgeous antique stained glass windows are displayed within the stately architecture reminiscent of medieval Europe. The stained glass covering the entire wall of the chapel is especially stunning. Beautiful live performances of the pipe organ are held regularly every day. The museum also offers a popular workshop where you can make your own original stained glass.
Access: JR Nasushiobara Sta. → 33 min by bus → Morikozaka bus stop → 16 min walk / JR Nasushiobara Sta. → 30 min by taxi or by rental car
Business hours: 9:30–16:30
Regular holiday: Wednesdays (and other irregular holidays)
TEL: 0287-76-7111
URL: https://sgm-nasu.com/
Oshiraji Falls are quietly nestled in the forest. When the water flow is low, the falls may disappear entirely. If you’re lucky enough to see the plunge pool glowing blue, it’s sure to be an unforgettable sight. It is said that your best chance is on a sunny morning after rainfall. Yama no Eki Takahara, located nearby, is an excellent base for hiking, where you can gather information and take a break at the restaurant.
Access: JR Yaita Sta. → 35 min by taxi or by rental car → Yama no Eki Takahara
Business hours: 9:00–16:00, December–March 10:00–15:00
Regular holiday: Wednesdays (or the following day when it falls on a national holiday) (December-March: Monday-Thursday)
TEL: 0287-43-1515
URL: https://yamanoekitakahara.com/
Said to have been established in 1404, this tranquil mountain temple features seven structures, including the Hondo Main Hall, main gate, and corridor connecting them, all designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. You can also take part in hands-on experiences of Buddhist culture, such as zazen meditation and sutra copying (only for groups of six or more, advance reservation required).
Access: JR Nishi-Nasuno Sta./Nasushiobara Sta. → Daioji Iriguchi bus stop → 15 min walk
Business hours: 9:00–17:00
Regular holiday: Open 365 days
TEL: 0287-54-0332
URL: https://www.daiouji.or.jp/
