Autumn in Japan is simply magical and if you’re looking for a quick escape from Tokyo, a Nikko day trip is the perfect choice. We visited during the first week of November, right when the leaves were turning fiery shades of red, orange, and gold.
Driving from Saitama, our day was filled with scenic mountain roads, peaceful lakes, and cozy stops that felt straight out of a postcard. If you’re commuting, don’t worry, I’ll also share how to get around using train and bus options, as well as tips on money-saving passes.
Via Private car
By car, it takes about 2–2.5 hours from Tokyo or Saitama, depending on traffic. We took the Tohoku Expressway, exited at Utsunomiya IC, and followed the signs toward Nikko.
Via Train and Bus
Nikko is very easy to reach from the Tokyo area. The trip from Asakusa Station to Nikko Station takes about two hours and costs around 3,000 to 3,500 yen.
- Tobu Line: Take the Limited Express SPACIA Kegon from Asakusa Station to Tobu-Nikko Station (~2 hours, ¥3000-¥3500 one-way).
- JR Line: From Tokyo or Shinjuku, take the JR Nikko Line via Utsunomiya (~2 hours, and typically cost 2,800 yen and it is also covered by JR Pass).
Money-Saving Tip
1. Nikko Pass
If you plan to use local buses in Nikko, the Tobu Nikko Pass All Area (¥8,000) covers round-trip from Asakusa and unlimited bus rides to places like Lake Yunoko and Kegon Falls for four consecutive days.
There’s also the World Heritage Area Pass (¥3,000) if you only want central Nikko, valid for 2 days.
Buy Nikko pass via Klook
Note: The Nikko Pass covers only the base fare for Tobu trains. You’ll need to purchase a limited express ticket separately.
- Easy activation: Just activate your pass directly in the Klook app.
- Go digital: Show your mobile ticket to board the train or bus—no need to print anything.
- Explore Nikko: Enjoy hot springs, scenic lakes, and breathtaking seasonal views.
- Exclusive perks: Get special discounts at selected attractions and restaurants in Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen.
How to activate the pass you bought from Klook ?
Follow the instructions provided to activate your Nikko Pass.
Tap “Redeem Now” only on the day of your visit. Once activated, it cannot be refunded.
Important Information
When you activate the pass, all tickets under the same booking will be activated together. If your group plans to travel separately, please make individual bookings.
If you don’t have a smartphone, purchase a paper ticket instead.
Make sure you have an active internet connection, as screenshots cannot be used to board trains or buses.
Available Bus Pass within Nikko
There are several unlimited-ride bus passes for the Nikko area (via Tobu Bus) that you can purchase on your smartphone, cashless.
Each pass also includes coupon perks for sightseeing spots and gourmet meals in the region.
Valid routes include: regular fixed-route buses, the “World Heritage Sightseeing Bus” circuit, and for some passes, specific scenic areas like Yumoto Onsen or Chūzenji Onsen.
Key Pass Types & Pricing (Adult)
World Heritage Sightseeing Pass: ¥600 for 1 day – unlimited rides on the circular bus covering the central world heritage zone (shrines/temples) in Nikko.
Yumoto Onsen Pass: ¥3,500 for 2 days – covers buses to Akechidaira Plateau, Kegon Falls, Lake Chūzenji, Ryūzu Falls, Senjōgahara Moor and Yumoto Onsen.
Chūzenji Onsen Pass: ¥2,300 for 2 days – covers buses to Akechidaira Plateau, Kegon Falls, Chūzenji Onsen area.
Kirifuri Kōgen Pass: ¥1,500 for 2 days – covers the Kirifuri Falls & Kirifuri Highland plateau area.
1. Lake Chuzenji Observation Deck
Location: Lake Chūzenji Observation Deck, Nikko
We started our day early, heading straight to Lake Chuzenji Observation Deck. It took about two hours from Saitama, but every curve of the mountain road was lined with vibrant autumn leaves.
From the deck, the view of Lake Chuzenji with Mount Nantai in the background was breathtaking. The air was crisp and fresh, and the best part — it’s completely free! The parking area is small, so arriving early is a smart move.
Via bus
- From Tobu-Nikko Station, take the Tobu Bus bound for Chuzenji Onsen or Yumoto Onsen.
- Get off at Chuzenji Lake (中禅寺湖) stop — the ride takes around 45–50 minutes.
- From there, change bus (via Chuzenji Skyline Hangetsuyama Line Hangetsuyama) heading to the Lake Chuzenji Observation Deck.
2. Ryuzu Cascades & Lunch at Ryuto no Chaya
Location: Ryuzu Cascades, Nikko
Next, we drove to Ryuzu Falls, a waterfall whose twin streams resemble a dragon’s head — hence the name “Ryuzu.” We stopped at Ryuto no Chaya, a cozy restaurant right beside the falls, for lunch. Eating with the soothing sound of water in front of us was one of the highlights of the trip.
Via bus:
From Chuzenji Lake Observation deck, go to Hangetsuyama Bus Stop. Then ride “Chuzenji Skyline Hangetsuyama Line via Chuzenji Onsen“.
Get off at Chuzenji Onsen. Ride another bus “Nikko Station ~ Kotoku Hot Spring ~ Yumoto Hot Spring Yumoto” via “Yumoto Onsen”.
Get off at Ryuzu Falls.
Travel time: ~1 hour &15 minutes from Chuzenji Lake Chuzenji Observation Deck.
3. Yudaki Falls
Location: Yudaki Cascades, Nikko
After lunch, we headed to Yudaki Falls, just a short drive from Ryuzu. Surrounded by colorful autumn leaves, the falls felt peaceful and picturesque. The observation platform at the base is free, and perfect for photos.
Via bus
Ride on the same bus (Nikko Station ~ Kotoku Hot Spring ~ Yumoto Hot Spring Yumoto) heading to Yumoto onsen.
Get off at Yudaki Falls (湯滝入口) stop.
Travel time: ~20 minutes from Ryuzu Falls
4. Lake Yunoko
Location: Lake Yunoko, Nikko
Above Yudaki Falls is Lake Yunoko, a serene mountain lake reflecting the autumn foliage. You can hike up from Yudaki, but we drove due to time constraints. The still water mirrored the fiery leaves, creating a perfect photo opportunity.
Walk
Walk uphill to reach Lake Yunoko.
Travel time: 5 minutes from Yudaki Falls
5. Nikko National Park & Senjougahara Marshland
Location: Sanbonmatsu Park , Senjōgahara Marshland
Before heading back downhill, we stopped at Sanbonatsu Park, exploring Senjougahara Marshland. The wide, golden moorland was peaceful and offered a different perspective from the lakes and waterfalls. Benches and rest spots are scattered along the flat trail — perfect for a snack or short break.
Via bus
- Go to “Yutakiiriguchi Bus Stop” then ride on the same bus heading to Yumoto Onsen.
- Get off at Sanbonmatsu stop near the trailhead.
6. Lake Chuzenji Lakefront Park
Location: Lake Chuzenji Lakefront Park
Our final stop was back at Lake Chuzenji, at the lakefront park. We’ve tried the swan boat rides here before (about ¥1,000 for 30 minutes), but this time we simply relaxed and enjoyed the lake views at sunset.
Tip: Traffic back to Tokyo can get heavy on weekends and during autumn peak season. Leaving by 4–5 p.m. is ideal.
Via bus
Ride at “Sanbonmatsu Bus Stop”. Continue returning downhill and get off again at Chuzenji Post Office stop.
The lakefront park is a few minutes’ walk away, near restaurants and the swan boat area.
Travel time: 18 minutes from Senjougahara
Cost & Travel Tips
- Tobu Nikko Pass All Area: ¥8000 (Adult) – covers round-trip train from Asakusa and unlimited buses. Validity: Four days consecutive use.
- World Heritage Area Pass: ¥3000 (Adult) – for central Nikko sightseeing. Validity: 2 days consecutive use.
- Parking: Mostly free, but limited at major stops
- Best time for autumn colors: Late October to early November
- What to bring: Snacks, drinks, warm jacket, comfortable shoes
For a broader perspective, you might enjoy my 5 Days Tohoku Travel Itinerary or check out my 2 days Hakone Itinerary trip.
Final Thoughts
Our Nikko day trip in early November was a dream — lakes, waterfalls, and those vivid autumn colors that make you stop and stare. Whether you’re driving or taking the train, it’s an easy and unforgettable escape from Tokyo. Take your time, enjoy the scenery, and let Nikko’s autumn beauty leave you with memories you’ll never forget.
