Chuzenji lake

2-Day Nikko Highlights Discovery Tour

 
 
  • 2 DAYS
  • First-timers, history buffs, nature lovers PERFECT FOR
  • US$1,539 p/p
    PRICE FROM
 

The Perfect Blend of History-filled Heritage and Natural Beauty

The Perfect Blend of History-filled Heritage and Natural Beauty

Not far from Tokyo, Nikko is a highly-favored travel destination. Based on our first-hand research and guest feedback, we've designed a two-day tour that permits a relaxed and immersive experience of Nikko's highlights. Due to heavy traffic during the peak cherry blossom season in spring and the vibrant maple leaf season in autumn, a one-day trip to Nikko is not feasible.

The charm of Nikko is in its perfect union of history and nature. Visit UNESCO sites like Toshogu Shrine and Rinno-ji Temple, and explore scenic Lake Chuzenji via kayaking or hiking. In the evening, rejuvenate in the natural alkaline waters of Kinugawa Onsen, known for their skin-smoothing effects.

JapanHighlights.com specializes in creating tailored travel experiences. With your preferences as our top priority, rest assured that we can personalize a journey that mirrors your interests.

Ling, Product Manager
Ling, Product Manager

Although Nikko’s autumn leaves were not yet at their peak, we enjoyed a rare, beautifully sunny day. We walked along the lakeside path in the cool breeze and happened upon freshly roasted sweet potatoes. Holding the warm snack in the crisp autumn air made the peaceful afternoon feel especially cozy.

Journey Highlights

Toshogu Shrin
Dive into Edo history (1603–1868) at UNESCO-listed Toshogu Shrine.
Lake Chuzenji
Explore the beauty of Lake Chuzenji with adventurous kayaking or leisurely hiking.
Kegon Falls
Marvel at one of Japan's top three most stunning waterfalls — Kegon Falls.
Onsen in Nikko
Refresh your tired body in an onsen known for its beauty-enhancing effects.
 
 
 
 

Traveler Moments

Toshogu Shrine
Nikko Lake Chuzenji
Nikko's noodles
Soba Noodles Making

An Itinerary for Inspiration

Discover World Heritage sites, the stunning beauty of Lake Chuzenji, and unique onsen experiences in Nikko with a personalized journey.

2-Day Nikko Highlights Discovery Tour map
Day 1

Step into Nikko's History

 
Nikko Toshogu Shrine Temple

In the morning, a private car will pick you up from your hotel in Tokyo to the scenic Nikko.

Immerse yourself in Edo-era history at Toshogu Shrine, a Nikko UNESCO site built in 1617 for Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Edo shogun.

Its intricate wood carvings, vibrant paintings, and gold leaf details defy Japan's traditional minimalistic style.

Discover Japanese gardens and royal culture at Tamozawa Imperial Villa, a former summer residence of emperors from 1899.

Soba noodles making

Cross the vibrant, vermilion-lacquered Shinkyo Bridge. This World Heritage site is celebrated as one of Japan's top three scenic bridges.

Experience making handmade soba noodles at a local restaurant, using Nikko-grown buckwheat flour renowned nationwide for its aroma and flavor.

Enjoy a hands-on experience lasting approximately one hour, followed by a tasting of freshly made soba noodles and tempura featuring seasonal vegetables.

Tamozawa Imperial Villa

Relax in natural hot springs and a traditional Japanese ryokan in Kinugawa Onsen.

Its alkaline springs offer therapeutic benefits including enhancing skin health, relieving muscle and joint pain, and promoting better sleep.

Day 2

Embrace Nikko's Nature

 
Vistas of Lake Chuzenji and Mount Nantai

Marvel at the awe-inspiring scenery of Lake Chuzenji, Japan's highest-elevation natural lake at an altitude of 1,269 meters (4,160 feet).

Born from a prehistoric volcanic eruption, the lake exhibits stunning beauty throughout the year. At the observation deck, encounter splendid vistas of Lake Chuzenji and Mount Nantai.

Its intricate wood carvings, vibrant paintings, and gold leaf details defy Japan's traditional minimalistic style.

We offer two options for in-depth exploration of the lake's scenery. Select what works best for you.

Kayaking

Option 1: Let's go kayaking! Embark on a unique kayaking adventure on Lake Chuzenji with our professional English-speaking coach.

This journey takes you across the heart of the lake, offering a serene escape awash with natural beauty, away from the bustling crowds..

Option 2: Let's go on a relaxing hike! Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the less-developed and quieter southern shore of Lake Chuzenji.

Hiking the southern shore of Lake Chuzenji

Apart from exploring the scenic shoreline, this hike includes brief visits to significant sites such as the British Embassy Villa and the Italian Embassy Memorial Park.

Then, take an elevator down from the volcano lake for a head-on view of Kegon Falls. Water from Lake Chuzenji dramatically cascades a hundred meters down a cliff face, creating one of Japan's most beautiful waterfalls.

After wrapping up your journey, you'll be driven back to your hotel in Tokyo via a private car.

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Your Stay is Part of the Story

Where you stay shapes your journey. We handpick hotels for their unique character, from city boutiques to beachfront escapes.

 
Kinugawa Onsen Hotel
Kinugawa Onsen Hotel
 
 
 
 

What's Included

No surprises, no hidden fees. Our pricing is transparent and tailored to your final plan. Here's a clear look at what's typically included.

Price Guide

Price Guide

4-Star Journey
  • Comfort & Character
  • From US$1,539 per person

Your Inclusions

Your Inclusions

  • Modern, spacious A/C vehicle & driver
    Modern, spacious A/C vehicle & driver
  • Dedicated English-speaking local guide
    Dedicated English-speaking local guide
  • All entrance fees & listed activities
    All entrance fees & listed activities
  • All nights in handpicked hotels
    All nights in handpicked hotels
  • Domestic flights between cities
    Domestic flights between cities
  • Daily breakfast & specified meals
    Daily breakfast & specified meals
  • 24/7 on-trip support
    24/7 on-trip support
  • ALL local taxes and fees (no hidden costs)
    ALL local taxes and fees (no hidden costs)

Good to Know

Good to Know

Pricing

  • Based on two people, low season travel.
  • Your final price is customized to your group, dates, and choices.
  • Mixing hotels? Absolute. We'll design a trip to fit your budget.

Exclusions

  • International flight (we can help book)
  • Most lunches & dinners (for flexibility)
  • Visas & travel insurances
  • Tips & personal spending

Booking

  • Discounts available for children under 8.
  • We accept USD, GBP, AUD, CAD, EUR, and more.

Tour code

  • ah-jp-29

Let's plan your journey, together.

It's simple. Here's how it works:
1. Share your ideas in the plan below.
2. Your travel advisor connects with you within 24 hours.

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