Just two hours from Tokyo, Nikko is a small mountainous city with a strong spiritual focus. Famed as the site of the 17th-Century Tosho-gu Shrine, an iconic Shinto landmark, the community has long attracted devotees from across Japan and further afield. Expect charming traditional accommodation, with our list of the best places to stay in Nikko featuring Japan’s oldest resort. Whether you’re travelling as a couple or with family and friends, you’ll find cultural attractions and outdoorsy activities aplenty in Nikko.
Keen hikers will adore discovering the beautiful Nikko National Park, home to a wide variety of birds and wildlife, as well as mountainous Okunikko and picturesque Lake Chuzenji. Visit in autumn for a mesmerising display of red, orange and golden leaves on the surrounding trees. Don't miss the chance to walk part of Japan’s 320-kilometre 'Romantic Road’, which winds its way through the heritage towns, hot spring resorts and marvellous mountain scenery of the Tochigi and Nagano prefectures. The ‘Three Great Waterfalls of Nikko’: Kegon Falls, Kirifurinotaki Falls and Uraminotaki Falls are stunning. The Akechidaira Observation Area also promises spectacular views.
Back in town, the UNESCO-listed Tosho-gu Shrine, with its beautiful Yomeimon and excellent museum is not to be missed. Guided tours of other nearby temples and the old town are brilliant. Speak to the teams at the best places to stay in Nikko for their top recommendations!
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Nikko (Nikko-city)
A quaint guesthouse well located within easy access of Nikkō's historical sights. Traditional tatami rooms offer an authentic stay while dormitories come with a very reasonable price tag. A small lounge offers a chance to mingle with other travellers. Ideal for those on a budget.
Nikko
A hot spring resort located on the eastern shore of Lake Chuzenji. Spacious and elegant Japanese and Western style rooms boast views over the lake and Mount Nantai; the restaurant serves superb kaiseki cuisine. Plus there's the onsen and range of traditional activities on site. An oasis of serenity.
Nikko (Kinugawa Onsen)
On the riverside, not far from Kinugawa, this magical ryokan delivers on charm. Rooms are comfortable and stylish; most have open-air baths with wonderful views. There's both a communal and private onsen, and excellent local cuisine. Surrounded by nature, this is a romantic retreat.
Nikko (Tochigi)
A traditional Ryokan located next to the famed Toshogu Shrine. Rooms of varying sizes (the largest sleeping 7) are classically dressed; think tatami mats, futon beds and paper screens. Boasting a hot spring bath, restaurant and even karaoke bar this is an ideal base to explore the region from.
Nikko (Tochigi)
A modern ryokan set in the beauty of Nikko National Park. Warm, spacious rooms are stylishly decorated, overlooking the woodland beyond. There's a restaurant boasting wonderful views, plus a hot spring bathhouse with open-air soaking tubs. A lovely peaceful setting yet close to many city highlights.
Nikko (Yumoto)
Set beside Lake Yuno amid mountains and forests, this hotel has spacious and minimalist rooms, many with splendid views. Breakast & dinner served in the restaurant are included in the rate, plus there's a cafe, a lush garden and a bathhouse with natural hot spring water. A calm and peaceful retreat.
Nikko (Tochigi)
Japan's oldest resort, this is an atmospheric spot with a charming mix of Japanese and European styles. Spacious rooms are light and airy with large windows, paper lanterns, parquet flooring and beamed ceilings. Housing a number of eateries and an old-fashioned bar. Fabulous and historic.
Nikko (Kinugawa)
A stylish hotel surrounded by mountains in Nikko. Rooms are spacious and elegant, a handful with open-air hot spring baths. Facilities include a restaurant, karaoke room, kids' play area, and a glittering atrium. Add in a pool, floating garden and wonderful views, and there's something for everyone.
Nikko
A glamorous property on the shores of Lake Chūjenzi. Elegantly designed rooms blend minimalist and traditional styles and large windows lead to private porches with either lake or mountain views. The Western fusion cuisine is superb, plus there's the Ritz-Carlton's only onsen! Fabulous.
