The 15 best public squares in Nikko

We visited this waterfall within a nice park. There were food and drink stores here. The elevator goes down 100 m to the falls, but there are steep stairs down so it's not wheelchair accessible and a challenge for those with walking disabilities. The waterfall is still visible even if you don't take the elevator down. We had a pleasant time here.

Very beautiful and long waterfall! We took the elevator to go 100m down and see it more closely from a lower angle. The cost of the elevator is 600¥ per adult and it’s cash only.

Kegon Falls is truly one of Japan’s top three most beautiful waterfalls, and it absolutely lives up to its reputation. Located in the scenic Nikko National Park, the waterfall drops an impressive 97 meters from Lake Chuzenji, creating a breathtaking curtain of water surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. The viewing area is well designed—you can admire the falls from the upper deck for free, or take the elevator down to the base for a small fee, where the roar of the water and the cool mist make for an unforgettable experience. Each season offers its own beauty: fresh green in spring, powerful flow in summer, fiery autumn foliage, and even frozen cascades in winter.

Kegon Falls can be seen from view point but need to pay an elevator fee to view the falls from the base. I managed to get a photo from the base from some people in the same tour. We enjoyed the food there while enjoying the view.

The water of Lake Chuzenji pours down from a 97-meter-high cliff. It is a grand scale where you can feel the majesty of nature and the beauty of its gorgeous shapes at the same time. Kegon Falls is known as one of the three most famous waterfalls in Japan, along with Fukuroda Falls in Ibaraki Prefecture and Nachi Falls in Wakayama Prefecture.

If you one the way to Lake chuzenji, you can drop by. color will be good at autumn, however, when i visited, it was still surrounded by gree, compares with other waterfill, it is just a tiny water stream.

Beautiful waterfall here. You can pay a small fee to take the lift down to get a better view of the waterfall. It wasn’t too crowded when I visited with less than 5 minutes queue to get the ticket, and board the lift. There’s also a small souvenir shop downstairs to get your memento.

One of the highlights of our Japan trip. Lake Chuzenji is gloriously beautiful - breathtaking. We enjoyed the sunrise and sunsets immensely. There's also the cruise which is part of the Nikko 4-Day Pass. A must experience!

Chuzenji is Japan’s highest natural lake, if you visit at autumn, color will be better. When I visited at end of sept, it was still surround by green.

A bit late with this review, but I wanted to share my experience at Chuzenji Lake for anyone planning a winter visit. I went in early February, and the winter atmosphere was fantastic—almost no people around. It wasn’t snowing that day, but it was very cold, around -5°C. Not many restaurants or cafés were open, but there were grilled Ayu fish sold —perfect for warming up while standing and eating. The snowy scenery around the lake was absolutely beautiful, and it was so relaxing to just enjoy the view. If you’re planning a winter trip here, take a look at the photos to get a sense of the atmosphere.

Lake Chūzenji is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Fall colors are not to be missed. Sightseeing boat ride 中禪寺湖乘船 takes one hour and makes four stops around the lake. Boat ride starts at 9 am every hour on the hour. Tickets can be purchased at the pier ticket office. Cost 1850 yen per person . We enjoyed the scenery on boat, nice and easy way to go around the lake.

A beautiful lake with charming paddle boats shaped like ducks available for rent—perfect for a relaxing sail around the water. The area is surrounded by cozy coffee shops, local restaurants, and souvenir stores, making it a lovely place to explore. It’s especially worth visiting during the autumn season, when the scenery becomes even more stunning with the fall colors.

Lake Chuzenji is simply stunning, especially when viewed from The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko it feels like a painting come to life. The calm waters sparkle under the soft sunlight, framed by verdant mountains and Mount Nantai. Whether you're looking out from your balcony or beside the lake, it’s the kind of view that steals your breath every time. It's the perfect place to slow down and soak in nature. The setting shifts with every moment early morning mist, sparkling midday, and magical sunset hues making it a memorable highlight of any stay in Nikko.

Lake Chuzenji is absolutely peaceful and mesmerizing—I couldn’t stop staring at its beauty. There’s a scenic 25 km walking path around the lake’s entire perimeter, perfect for nature lovers. You can also enjoy the lake up close with a cruise ride, speed boat, or paddle boat, each giving a different charm of the surroundings. I highly recommend staying at least a full day in the lake area to truly soak in its magic. It feels like heaven on earth!

A really nice and calm place in the middle of a very busy nikkō. Barefoot walking through this amazing place is so relaxing with a beautiful view on the gardens. The staff is absolutely adorable and more than keen to give information about the villa to visitors ! I recommend :)

Visited Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa last Sunday — it was an amazing experience, especially with the beautiful autumn vibes all around! 🍁 The garden is absolutely stunning and very peaceful to walk through. The Villa itself is impressive with 106 rooms, showing the elegance and history of Japanese architecture. The ticket costs 600 yen and covers both the Villa and the garden, which I think is quite reasonable. It would be even better if they provided a guide to explain the full history — that would be the cherry on top! There are staff stationed at various points, but they mainly assist and ensure visitors follow the rules rather than share details about the site. Still, it’s a must-visit place in Nikko if you love history, architecture, and nature. Highly recommended!

Absolutely stunning No crowds and very well kept. It was pouring rain when I visited and was completely transported. Feeling the fantasy I wanted to move in. Do not sleep on this place. One of the last imperial palaces made entirely of wood. I am sure it would be so beautiful in the snow !

Peaceful place after a crowded visits to Toshogu Shrine, 10-15mins walk from there. Not many people came here, mostly older generation. But we really enjoyed our time here, the building is quite large with so many rooms inside, it'll take around 20-30mins to see all the rooms (+taking photos too) The ticket is 500¥, there is a free locker room at the entrance (100¥ refundable deposit).

It's not often that you can visit a home which has connections to the Tokugawa Shogunate, business man and the Imperial Japanese Family, Tamozawa Imperial Villa is all of this. Villa seems to be a little misleading as it really is a mansion and very beautiful, built in a similar way that Japanese shrines and temples are constructed "no nails"! Very well established interior courtyards and grounds! The Imperial Botanical Gardens just up the road, were once part of the Villa grounds! For a 600yen entrance fee, "wear clean socks" as no shoes are allowed, in fact you have to remove your shoes on the foot path outside the front entrance, you place your shoes in an open storage room just inside the front door, photos are allowed but some sections are cut off from viewing and there is a gift shop within the villa. Anybody going to Nikko should visit. The bus from the Nikko station stops near the front entrance. The wonderful people at Nikko Station Information Centre will be helpful regarding any inquires.

Gorgeous Villa! The detailing is exceptional! Workmanship is first class. I want their contractor!

Magnificent villa with zen garden. Unfortunately few rooms are restricted, but you can still enter most of them and even experience a view from the upper floor.

We had a great day here, full of entertainment! The only drawback was that shows were only in Japanese, but that is to be expected in old Japan🙂. There is a free shuttle bus operating to/from Nikko station, so make use of it! The staff are really friendly and perform their roll to the best of their abilities. There are several shows throughout the day. Really well done!

Spending 5 hours with my family felt like a dream, and time just flew by! It was an amazing experience for my kids to step back in time and see Edo Japan. Plus, it was heartwarming to see so many Japanese visitors, which made me feel confident that this isn’t just a tourist trap. It took us time to decide to suite up in Samurai and Ninja, the price is consequential (¥200k for 4). But we are so happy we did it. Walking around the park wearing samurai and ninja skins was absolutely amazing. And so many people do it, we felt right back in time. My girls absolutely loved the Ninja district! There’s even a haunted house in the theatre district. The market district has a variety of delicious Japanese food (don’t expect to find hotdogs or burgers there!). We managed to find a coffee shop to grab a drink. The samurai district wasn’t quite our cup of tea, but my wife and I did try the samurai training, and it was a blast! Just a heads-up: it only takes 6 people at a time, and the training is every hour and a half. People usually start lining up about 15 minutes before it starts. So, please be on time!

Family of four, 9yo & 17yo. We thoroughly enjoyed our time here, we spent a full day and still did not do everything we wanted to do. Please make use of the free shuttle from Nikko JR station or paying shuttle from Kinugawa Onsen. The staff spoke just enough English to help us, which was really nice! There are quite a few Westerners but it is not a tourist trap, from what I understood, there is a real pride towards historic and cultural accuracy of the park. We did pay for four costumes; it did take some time to chose and get dressed but it was so worth it! I wouldn't wear the traditional shoes next time, though, there were super inconvenient for my western feet. Your "modern" clothes and bags are being kept safely in the back, you get a little traditional bag where you can put your camera and money. There was a rather big crowd that (week)day, several schools visited, but we never felt crowded and there were many corners from the park that were peaceful. By 3 pm, though, the park was totally empty and we enjoyed all of it with only a handful of visitors. We were lucky to visit around Halloween and got to see the Yokai-Monster parade. Food was ok, nothing exceptional, next time we might bring our own picnic. There is so much to do and see; the ninja training is big fun though a bit short, the maze is very exciting, the ninja show very cool (all Japanese but it doesn't really matter). The Oiran parade was also fantastic. Our teenage daughter took a LOT of instagram pictures, the scenery is really beautiful.

At first, I thought to myself, "5800 yen for a ticket? Nah, too much for my wallet." But, actually I totally enjoyed it. So many shows and activities to do. They will keep you busy throughout the day. And you can really experience the edo life style and food as well.

What a truly special experience. The park was really well set out, with lots of rest rooms and seating, but we were lucky enough to go on a very quiet day. Actors that wander the streets are genuinely hilarious and so friendly, and stores, food, and stalls are great, the shows are all very entertaining, and museums are great too. While most signs are in both Japanese and English, none of the performances and shows will be, just a head's up. Definitely a great experience- set aside a whole day for it!

I went there quite late since the route from Tokyo was quite confusing. I recommend to start from Tokyo since early morning like maybe 7 or 8am so you can enjoy the whole park. Didn’t know that they have scheduled performance, I got quite lot of perfomances but I missed the Geisha walks. Also if you come early, you can rent the costume for the whole day. If you come late, it would be not worth it since we have to return at maximum 4pm. Overall, I love it!

Wonderful experience! This is a beautiful park and the staff are very friendly and helpful. If you want to have the experience of dressing in traditional Japanese clothes, do it here instead of in Tokyo. You have more options and better scenery for memorable pictures. It is also a lot of fun to walk around the park.

Gorgeous place, just takes a really long time to get there (day trip from Tokyo). Multiple transfers + waiting times.

Nice place to visit if you want a change from the busy Tokyo city life. Nikko has a lot of nice hikes, sceneries, lakes, mountains for you to enjoy. It’s worth the short distance away.

If you want to learn more about the history of Japan, Nikko is one of the places you have to visit. One of the elaborated temple designs and deep-rooted history are ones to look out. There are ares where photographs and videos aren't allowed, but you have to experience it personally. Especially the crying dragon and the magical sounds.

The Nikko National Park is one of the great tourist attraction in Japan for so many waterfalls, Lake, Dead volcano mountain, mountain Observatory points, shrine, Museum, onsen, hiking trails, Resorts, restaurants, souvenirs shop and many more. Very much popular spot for dogs. You can also witness of Monkeys. You have to stay at least one night, two days to explore whole Nikko park.

Beside Kegon waterfall, don't miss the sightseeing boat cruise at Chuzenji Lake! You will be amazed. It's really worth an hour trip to watch these beautiful red leaves scenery. Visited: Oct 26, 2023.

Nikko National Park, or 日光国立公園 (Nikko Kokuritsu Koen) in Japanese, is a pristine haven that seamlessly blends cultural richness with breathtaking natural landscapes. Located in the Tochigi Prefecture, this national park is renowned for its historical significance and awe-inspiring scenery. At the heart of the park lies Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to intricate Edo-period craftsmanship. The shrine complex, adorned with ornate carvings and vibrant colors, pays homage to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Beyond its cultural treasures, Nikko National Park unfolds a tapestry of natural wonders. The Kegon Waterfall, Lake Chuzenji, and Mount Nantai contribute to the park's scenic grandeur. Visitors can explore hiking trails, revel in the beauty of changing seasons, and witness the mesmerizing cascade of Kegon Waterfall. The diverse flora and fauna add ecological significance, creating a harmonious blend of human history and natural beauty. Whether it's the vibrant autumn foliage or the tranquil ambiance of Lake Yunoko, every corner of Nikko National Park beckons exploration. Accessible from Tokyo, the park offers a perfect retreat from urban life, providing an immersive experience in Japan's cultural and natural heritage. Nikko National Park stands as a captivating destination, inviting travelers to appreciate the splendor of Japan's landscapes while delving into its rich history.

We came here during raining day and it’s all mist up here which couldn’t see the waterfalls. But it was very nice atmosphere, probably will right back.

One of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve ever visited and probably the most beautiful I’ve seen in Japan. I arrived in early November, a bit too late for the fall colors but still wondrous nonetheless. It’s relatively easy to access great viewing points and worth the effort to see if you’re in the area. Definitely check it out when in Nikko!

The scenery was stunning. I visited at the end of October, traveling by rented car. The autumn leaves were changing color, which was absolutely beautiful. To view the falls, you must purchase a ticket before descending by elevator. The Kegon waterfall vista from the base is simply superb. They also have a souvenir shop there. Be aware that these falls are located in the mountains, quite a distance from the Shinkyō Bridge, so you should plan your time carefully to arrive before sunset. 🍁🍂🍃

We visited Kegon Waterfall on a weekday late afternoon, and it was a great experience. It wasn’t very crowded, so we could really take our time and enjoy the view. The scenery was stunning. The waterfall is incredibly powerful and surrounded by beautiful nature. Paying 600 yen for the elevator to see it from the base was absolutely worth it, as it gives you a completely different and much closer perspective. Definitely one of the highlights in the Nikko area!

Kegon waterfalls is so beautiful waterfall. I first came here in winter. The first time I saw it was very beautiful and peaceful. I really love this waterfall. And when I came this year in October 2025, it was beautiful in another way. I had the opportunity to take the elevator down to the lower level of the waterfall. I was even more surprised to find the waterfall more beautiful than when I saw it from above.

Kegon Falls is one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls. It stands about 97 meters high, with water flowing directly from Lake Chūzenji into the Ōshiri River. It is officially listed among Japan’s Three Great Waterfalls, together with Nachi and Fukuroda Falls. Discovered over 1,200 years ago by the Buddhist monk Shōdō Shōnin, the waterfall has long been a place of scenic and spiritual significance. Its name, Kegon, may be inspired by the Kegon Sutra (華厳経), one of the central Buddhist scriptures. An elevator (Kanbaku Elevator) can take visitors down to a lower observation deck near the base of the falls. Fee: about ¥600 (round trip) for adults, ¥400 for children.

Don't come as late as we did - know when the sun will set and come at least 3 hours earlier because it is better sight. The top observatory is free, but to go down 100 meters you have to go with an elevator which costs 600 yen per person - it is worth it. You can also see where the water falls on the ground and the other small waterfall. Keep in mind that you will spend some time watching and some time taking photos, so don't come in busy hours if that's possible. I would suggest you come with the earliest bus when there are not a lot of tourist. Doesn't matter if some shops won't be open so early, you can get the exact same suveniers elsewhere later.

Very pretty but the viewpoint at the bottom of the waterfall is only available via the paid elevator due to stair repairs - the line for this elevator can be very long depending on when you arrive. The souvenir stores are very nice and had some more unique souvenirs than other stores we visited around Japan. Would only come here as part of a trip to see more of Nikko. Traffic to the parking spot can be horrendous so it helps to do some research before going.

Feb 2021 3.5 Not crowded, closes at 4pm，great for beginners We got lost driving and arrived at 3pm😂

I went on 10th of February 2024 which was Saturday and you know weekend are obviously crowded,it is really suitable for the ski beginners and very popular for family and children to play. There are two rental store for the ski and snowboard gears.the one which is near to the ticket counter was little expensive than the one you will find at the south side. And for the food,there is a restaurant where I ate Japanese curry rice and my friend with cup noddle and some fried chicken. But I’m little disappointed or wanted to tell the ski center to make a proper chair lift because it is very open and there isn’t much safety.

Beautiful Ski Park...love the whole cool, relaxing and fun environment.

It is a one and half hour ride from Nikko.. Included to Nikko pass .. No clear idea about the facilities coz this is my first ski experience.. Food around 1000yen Rental 3000yen Had two heaters in service room(was not enough as I experienced)

Fun family place for beginners or seasoned skiers. Rental shops available to rent all skiing and snowboarding stuff from gloves to boards. Beautiful views of mountains all round. Gentle slopes and steeper slopes available. There are restaurants but they stop serving food at 3pm. All rentals must be returned by 4pm.

My friend’s family and mine had fun in the snow. The ski park was not huge but it was good for families. You can also rent skiis, sleds and snowboards there.

An excellent slope for beginner skiers and snowboarders and in general a good and beautiful place!) Do not forget to watch the weather, we hit -23 at night)

These magnificent buildings are so exceptional that, allegedly, even the originals imitate them. The first half features well-known landmarks everyone recognizes, while the latter half showcases Japan's renowned architecture. With the right photography skills, you can capture images that truly feel like you're traveling there in person. It's extremely hot in summer, so you should be sure to take thorough precautions against heatstroke. There are cafes and rest areas along the way.

This little park is HUGE value for money- you get to learn about man-made structures from all around the world and across history, for such a small price! Definitely much bigger than I thought, there's lots to see and do! The attention to detail is lovely. Also, if you have a Nikko Pass, show it at the ticket gate to receive a huge discount!

Ticket slightly pricey. The attractions are cool and good for taking pictures. There were not a lot of people when I went. The models feel realistic, especially when taken at a right angle with a camera. The models are not updated, and maybe more counties attraction can be added.

We visited Tobu World Square in July 2025. The ticket price is 2800円, but if you have the Nikko Pass, you can get a discount of 1000円. It is expensive, but I think the price is worthwhile. It took us about 3 hours to visit the park, but we had to rush a little at the end through the Asia and traditional Japan sections. I learned that the ticket is all day, so you can visit in the morning and then come back after dark to see the illuminations. The park showcases famous places from around the world, including Japan, all at 1/25 scale, which makes it easy to compare them. There are over 140,000 miniature people, with some hidden famous characters or movie scenes. For me, the most stunning part of the exhibits are the roughly 20,000 bonsai trees which change with the seasons. If you visit in the summer, please note there is little tree cover, so bring an umbrella and other sun protection. There are taps to fill up a water bottle. There are coin lockers before and after the ticket gates. At the entrance of the exhibits there is a sphere which plays music with animatronic characters every 10, 30, and 50 minutes after the hour, it’s very cute. Some exhibits require a 100円 coin to play an optional animation. There are snack counters, small restaurants, and souvenir shops on site. I loved being able to buy foreign alcohol such as German beer or French cidre. It is very dog friendly with strollers that can be rented, places to wash your dog, or little podiums for photos. We don’t have a dog, but all the dogs made the experience even more fun!

Tobu World Square is an absolutely amazing place to visit in Japan! The detailed miniatures of famous landmarks from around the world are truly impressive and beautifully crafted. It's like traveling the globe in just a few hours. The park is clean, well-organized, and educational too. Perfect for families, tourists, or anyone who appreciates art, culture, and architecture. Highly recommend adding this to your Japan travel bucket list!

Tobu World Square is a theme park dedicated to miniature replicas of famous landmarks around the world, and in Japan. It was very cool seeing the New York skyline before 9/11, as well as many famous spots around Japan like the Kiyo Mizudera and Itsukushima Shrine. Entry for adults is 2800 yen. This is a great spot if you enjoy architecture, miniature models, traveling, history, photography, or famous landmarks. This theme park is easily accessible from Asakusa and Nikko. From Asakusa, you can take the Revaty or Spacia X limited express which stops at Tobu World Square Station. You can also get to Tobu World Square from Nikko by taking the Nikko Line to Shimo-Imaichi Station, then transferring to the Nikko Kinugawa Line. Very convenient For children, I think they will enjoy the various shops and restaurants, as well as the little displays. As an adult, I had a great time admiring the architecture. It was amusing seeing the Twin Towers, Tokyo Skytree, and Eiffel Tower right behind the London Bridge. You can get some really confusing and funny pictures. There are about 100 exhibits so plan to spend at least an hour and a half to three hours. This place closes at 5 PM on weekdays and 6PM on certain days. It is pretty off the beaten path, and you will likely not face large crowds if you come in the afternoon. When I went, I had almost the whole park to myself.

It takes at least 2 hours to visit all miniatures art Worthy place to visit and ticket per adult is ¥2800

My tips for tourists/foreigners wishing to do this hike (as of May 2025) TLDR: entrance closes at 12, wear shoes with grip (!) - it is slippy, bring at least 2 litres of water - entrance to the trail is 1000 yen, I think cash only. - CANNOT enter after 12pm - 1.100 meter elevation gain. this hike is STEEP - wear proper shoes, I wouldn’t recommend this in normal trainers. You will need shoes with grip. - the snow close to the top, and the gravel near the summit is very slippy, sticks/poles could be a massive help. - bring at least 2 litres of water, also electrolyte water could be good. - there are a lot of bug swarms at the top, bug spray would’ve been helpful. - seemingly there are monkeys, I didn’t see any but something to beware of if you planning to bring food. - bring food! It is a long hike. At least 6 hours including some rest time so you will want some energy. - there is no bins located along the trail. Or toilets. The only toilet is at the temple you enter. You must pay 100 yen for paper :/ Overall, amazing hike even on a cloudy day. I started at 11am and was down by about 5pm with minimal stops other than a good rest at the top. Most of the trail is on scramble trail which is pretty steep. There is a section you walk along a winding road. The start of the trail is through some really nice woodland, but again, steep! And it only gets worse 🤣

Awesome hike on a well marked trail, must do while in Nikko. Steep elevation gain, took us 5 hours return. The trail is mainly covered by trees, with limited exposed spots so you remain protected from rain or the sun. The peak is exposed for the last 20 minutes with panoramic views of the Nikko National Park. Experienced snow in early November, which was not predicted - it was beautiful but ensure you are prepared for the change in weather at the summit, it can get very cold!

Great hike but it’s challenging. I recommend grippy shoes, my trainers were super slippery and it’s quite dangerous, I fell down a few times, thankfully only small cuts

Pretty good hike! Fairly steep at the start and cold on the top so bring layers. Mt Fuji was visible as it was a clear day. Need 1000¥ cash at start and you need to start before 12 o’clock

Amazing experience ! What a hiking there several kind of paths during the hiking so be ready because it’s quite difficult hiking. I was unlucky because it was very cloudy but anyway I didn’t regret my choice. Be careful the night becomes very fast The hiking takes about 6 hours ( up and down) Enjoy !!

Very hard for beginners it takes us almost 6 hours for up and down big big stone and sleepy mud makes difficult climbing , take as much water as you can.

From Nikko Station, take the bus to Chuzenji Lake area. The entrance to the hiking trail starts from Nikko Futarasan Jinja Chugushi Shrine. I gave it 5 starts because the landscape and view was just so amazing! This is a medium level hike and make sure to have plenty of time when you hike this mountain (ideally, you want to book accomodation around the lake area since the hike will take you half a day, without counting the bus commuting time). Make sure to bring some lunch, be aware that there are not many convini stores or supermarkets around the lake, and the restaurants tends to close in the early afternoon, so plan well in advance! So my suggestion is to come with good supplies. Coming early from Nikko Station, we did the hike to the top on the same day. It can get rainy so bring your rainwear as well. There are some rocks to climb and can get slippery.

Beautiful, well marked hike from top of gondola. Took about a little over 4 hours round trip, some loose rock at top but otherwise pretty safe. Beautiful scenery and loved the change as well went up!

It was an enjoyable climb with varied scenery and trails. The encounters with flowers along the way were also invigorating.

Mount Nikko Shirane, a prominent peak in the Nikko region, presents a captivating experience for mountain enthusiasts. Renowned for its scenic beauty, the summit offers panoramic views of surrounding landscapes, including the iconic Lake Chuzenji. The trek to the top, while challenging, rewards adventurers with a sense of accomplishment and awe-inspiring vistas. During winter, the mountain transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting snow enthusiasts. The tranquil atmosphere and pristine snow-covered slopes make it a haven for those seeking a serene escape. Whether for hiking or winter activities, Mount Nikko Shirane offers a memorable and picturesque adventure in the heart of nature.

The scenery at the top is breathtaking during sunny day. It is not a long way from the entrance to the top. Route is not that hard if you are an experienced hiker. Be careful to the area closed to the top. It is fulled of little rocks and easy to slide down. There are many direction signs along the way at each intersection. You won't get lost at all. If you go downhill the other way, there will be large rock steps that you have to use your hands. Overall it is a very nice experience to climb to the top of this mountain.

It was an epic adventure for me! So happy to be here! Just got lucky I've got some one to hike with last saturday I met Suzuki sang at the parking area. It was a quiet long and mesmerizing hike! Took us 3hrs and half hours to reach the summit and another 3 hrs to descend. Thank you for guiding me Suzuki sang till we meet again!! ❤️🇯🇵

Gorgeous hike that is well marked so suggest starting early. No service for NTT Docomo or Softbank so be prepared going in. There's a lake halfway up (takes 1:30 hours) that's a beautiful break area and has many benches for people to rest on. The second leg is more open and can be windy/chilly. All in about 4 hours to the top one way and isn't too tough for experienced hikers. One of my favorites in Japan

I had gone to mount sirane last year October. It was so much beautiful view from the top.There was rope way. After finishing the rope way it takes about 3 hours walk.strong wind on the top and its better to take out warm clothes.

It was our first time exploring the Kinugawa area, and we very much enjoyed our stop at Ryuokyo Station/Canyon. After you going down a long set of stairs, you come to the beautiful Nijimi Falls and a small shrine, and then you can continue down and across the bridge to the far side of the canyon. We followed the path to the right and enjoyed beautiful views of the canyon as we went, and after crossing the bridge again, we went to the left and circled back around to the cute little Ryuokyo Station.

The most beautiful mountain I’ve ever seen. The view was breathtaking and unforgettable. Standing there, surrounded by nature, I felt completely at peace. The fresh air, the sound of the wind, and the endless scenery made it one of the most memorable moments of my life.

Ryuokyo Canyon is one of the most scenic river gorges in the region. Its name means “Dragon King Gorge” and comes from the twisting shapes of the Kinugawa River and the rocks that resemble a dragon’s movement. Formed over 22 million years by volcanic activity and erosion, the gorge reveals striking layers of andesite, green tuff, and rhyolite, each giving a different color and texture to the cliffs. A well-maintained nature trail follows the canyon, connecting several beautiful spots such as Nijimi Falls, Tategoto Falls, Gokoiwa (Five-Light Rock), Shiraiwa (White Rock), and Goryuo Shrine. The hike from Ryuokyo Station to Kawaji Onsen takes about 2–3 hours at an easy pace. Wooden bridges, moss-covered rocks, and the constant sound of the river make it a peaceful and deeply atmospheric walk through nature.

Descending several flight of slippery stairs to reach a scenic photo spot of the dynamic waterfall and beautiful valley and streams below

This is the trail along the Kinugawa (Kinu River). The trail was easy to walk and half of the trail was stunningly impressive. The trail could last from 1 hour to six hours according to your choice of walk. I took the longest one, but honestly the impressive part was only in the first half way, the other half was for the sake of walking.

A lot of steps but the view absolutely worth it. We came during spring so there weren’t a lot of people.

It’s a wonderful place for getting away from your hectic daily life. Beautiful scenery and not so difficult walking trails. But no recommended for those who has bad knees because of the up and down trails. It took us 2 hours to complete the 1 hour walking trail. We spent time relaxing and taking photos. Car park is free. The are some nice restaurants at the entrance of the park.

Just a short walk from the British Villa lies the Italian Embassy Villa, built in 1928 and famous for its cedar bark panel design both inside and out. It shares the same lovely lakefront setting, offering a unique architectural contrast and rich international history. Combined visits to both villas offer a peaceful and culturally illuminating experience. The area is quiet, scenic, and perfect for reflective strolls along Lake Chuzenji, steeped in early 20th-century diplomatic charm.

It's a nice place nearby the lake. Till end of March is closed and from April will be open. Surrounded by forest and designed nicely. Atmosphere is good and there are signs and information about it's history and plans. The area is very nice in general. There is a walking path which gives a nice tour around There are no toilets

Very beautiful interiors with a great view of the lake. It wasn’t so crowded wither despite it being a weekend. You can also walk out to the dock and get some amazing pictures. Did get bit by a strange bug that often appears in the area according to the staff there.

A great place to visit if you want to experience how the ambassadors based in Japan unwinded during the summers in the 20th century. They also have a cozy space where you can get coffee and enjoy the view of lake chuzenji out of the window.

Beautiful villa with a great view! They have sell combined tickets for the Italian and the British villa. Loved the window bringing in the natural lights and the wood giving the place a warm vibe. They also have a small jetty to get a better view of the mountain.

A nice little spot! The weather was foggy when I visited (end of June), but it was still very peaceful and relaxing. A great escape from the city. I can only imagine how much more beautiful it must be with clear weather. I paid ~300yen for access to the Italian and British villas. They're small, not much in terms of furniture that could be interesting to a Westerner, but the history behind them is very intriguing. The Italian Villa also smells delightful due to the cedar bark.

Although it was under renovation, it is still worth visiting. It is a unique architecture that use cedar bark and bamboo as key materials. Unlike the old british embassy, the pier outside the building is accessible and a good spot for photograph. There is also a cafe in the facility.

A very beautiful villa, which was formerly a retreat of the British consul of Japan. In this place you can learn about Sir Satow, whom was an important figure if you’re interested in Japanese and Chinese modern history. There’s also tea sets but I think they’re very expensive.

Former British embassy villas by Lake Chuzenji are now open to the public as a park-like attraction. The buildings offer some historical context about British relations with Japan, plus there’s a small cafe and the villa interiors to explore, but honestly there isn’t much substantial content inside. The real appeal is the photogenic combination of the exotic Western architecture against the beautiful Lake Chuzenji backdrop. The Nikko Pass doesn’t cover this attraction and requires separate admission. Save your money and just enjoy the free external views for photos - the buildings are striking from outside and that’s really all you need. Only go inside if you’re genuinely curious about the historical connections, but I wouldn’t recommend it as a priority stop.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

This beautiful park features a restored villa once owned by British diplomat Ernest Satow, built in 1896 and used as a summer retreat. The second-floor veranda provides “painting-perfect” views of Lake Chuzenji that Satow adored tranquil, evocative, and rich with history. Inside, exhibits introduce you to the villa's diplomatic history and British culture of that era. There’s also a charming tea room serving scones and tea curated by the British Embassy chef ideal for relaxing with a lakeside panorama.

ABSOLUTELY loved this place. Beautiful scenery of the lake Chuzenji. The serenity of the place itself was 💯 they have afternoon Tea set which I believe was from Kanaya hotel. Amazing scones🤤 You cannot miss this spot when visiting Chuzen-ji.

A unique combination of western architecture with traditional Japanese elements in a breathtaking setting. For those who are interested in venacular architecture the visit will be very satisfactory. We did not go to this restaurant nor did we pay to much attention to the exhibition this review is only about the Architecture itself.

Just a few minutes away from the Italian Embassy Villa. Definitely worth a visit and a nice place to relax.

300 yen for each and 450 for both Italian and British embassy.. the restroom in British embassy is better if you happen to need a restroom there. It’s not car accessible. I mean it probably is but there is no parking space available. You are safe if you take a bus there or walk from the temple or cruising boat parking. British embassy is bright and comfortable to sit and enjoy the scenery. The Italian one which located only 3 minutes walk is quite chilly. Exhibition is quite interesting. We didn’t try anything from the tearoom upstairs though.

Amazing experience coming here for the 1st time in May. Strawberries were large and very sweet. Tickets cost ¥1800 for 30 mins, and you can get unlimited strawberries. Recommended to try if you are in Nikko between Nov-May!

Had the best time at this strawberry farm with my family! The strawberries were huge, super juicy and sweet. The best strawberries I’ve ever tasted. 💗

CASH OR PAYPAY ONLY! They do NOT take card. Beware of this. Staff ranged from friendly to polite. Overall fun experience, worth a stop if you have a car! Ate so many strawberries.

Eat all you can in 30 minutes! We got the whole house for ourselves and the strawberries were very sweet! You can reach the place by taxi if you are going to use public transportation.

Must-visit strawberry park when you are in Nikko. Recommended to book in advance for the time slot and make payment at the counter after your arrival here. Nikko Strawberry Park offers a delightful 30-minute and 60-minute all-you-can-eat strawberry picking experience, featuring varieties like Tochiotome and Skyberry. The strawberries are juicy and flavorful, benefiting from Nikko’s cool climate and pristine mountain water. The facility is accessible, with elevated benches for easy picking, and is certified by Global G.A.P. for its high safety and quality standards.

Amazing. I want to live here. Strawberries are amazingly fresh - sweet and crisp. I love this place. So delicious. Well maintained and friendly staff.

Super fun experience, slightly expensive but we definitely ate our money’s worth of strawberries. Highly recommend buying the chocolate sauce.