There’s a Japanese saying that goes, “Never say kekko (which means you’re satisfied) until you’ve seen Nikko.”
It’s the time of year where various travel publications distribute their lists of places to visit in the coming twelve months, and Fodor’s Go List 2025 featured Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture, a favorite weekend getaway spot for many Tokyoites. Rich in natural beauty and cultural activities, the small city is even easier to access thanks to the new Spacia X train that can get travelers from Asakusa to Tobu Nikko Station in under two hours.
Lake Chuzenji was one of the outdoor destinations mentioned in Fodor’s write-up, and it’s a particularly beautiful spot during the autumn months thanks to the vivid colors of the season’s changing leaves. You can explore the area on foot via the hiking route that circles the lake, or take a sightseeing boat ride for a unique perspective from the water.
For the foodies, a must-try while you’re in the area is yuba, or tofu skin, a regional specialty that can be served up in numerous ways. Yuba soba is one popular option, but since it’s such a versatile ingredient you can find it in everything from gyoza to Japanese-style curry.
It’s not just nature and food that Nikko offers —culture enthusiasts will find one of Japan’s most ornate shrines here. Nikko Toshogu Shrine, part of the UNESCO-listed Shrines and Temples of Nikko, has a history dating back to 1617 and stands out for its intricate carvings, gold detailing, and vibrant colors. It’s a marked contrast to the more austere designs seen at many other Japanese religious sites.
If you are considering a visit to Nikko, be sure to explore more destination articles on our dedicated page here.
Getting there
Nikko can be accessed from Tokyo (Tobu Railway Asakusa Station) via the Spacia X train, with the journey taking approximately two hours.
