NIKKO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

Nikko World Heritage Sites are renowned for their historical, cultural, and architectural significance. Located in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural landscapes. The area is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, primarily centered around the Toshogu Shrine and its associated structures. These sites are set against the backdrop of Nikko National Park, which is known for its stunning natural beauty, including waterfalls, lakes, and mountain scenery. Together, they offer a rich tapestry of Japan’s cultural and natural heritage.

Ichi No Torii Nikko World Heritage Sites
  1. Where Is Nikko World Heritage Site
  2. How To Go Nikko, Japan
  3. How To Go To Nikko World Heritage Sites
    A. Getting Around The Nikko World Heritage Sites
    B. Nikko Rinnoji Temple
    C. Nikko Toshogu Shrine
    D. Nikko Futurasan Shrine
    E. Nikko Rinnoji Taiyuinbyo
    F. Shinkyo Bridge
  4. Summary

WHERE IS NIKKO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

Nikko World Heritage Sites are located in the city of Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. Where Nikko is situated about 140 kilometers (87 miles) north of Tokyo surrounded by lush forests, scenic landscape and mountainous area.

HOW TO GO NIKKO, JAPAN

Tourist Map Information Nikko Japan

Traveling to Nikko is a relatively straightforward journey, where it offers beautiful views and a chance to experience the scenic beauty of Japan. For a tourist traveller, below are the common method for getting to Nikko.

A. From Tokyo (Train)
Ride the Tobu Limited Express from Asakusa Station to Tobu-Nikko Station. This is a direct and convenient way to get to Nikko which will usually take 2 hours journey. The Tobu Limited Express offers comfortable seating and scenic views.

B. JR and Tobu Combination:
Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya Station, then transfer to the Tobu Nikko Line from Utsunomiya Station to Tobu Nikko Station. The travel time will take 2 to 2.5 hours in total which slightly longer but allows for the use of JR Pass.

C. Express Bus:
There are various express buses operate from Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, or Ikebukuro Station to Nikko. The journey will take approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, which make it convenient if you prefer direct routes and a more relaxed travel experience

HOW TO GO NIKKO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

Welcome Sign Nikko World Heritage Sites

Once you arrive in Nikko, visiting the World Heritage Sites is relatively straightforward. Most of the visitors will start the Tobu-Nikko Station, here’s a guide on how to reach these key sites:

A. LOCAL BUS
Ride the local bus (Kanto Bus or Nikko City Bus) bound for Toshogu or the “Toshogu-mae” stop. The bus ride will takes about 10 minutes. Alight at the Shinkyo Bridge and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the entrance.

B. WALK
Visitors who prefer to walk, can take a 15-20-minutes walk from Tobu Nikko Station to reach the site.

GETTING AROUND THE NIKKO WORLD HERITAGE SITES

Walking Around Nikko World Heritage Sites

Navigating the Nikko world heritage sites is quite easy, since oshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Shrine are concentrated in one central location. The sites are all within walking distance of each other making it easy to visit them in a single day. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon which offer a quieter experience.

#1 Nikko Rin’nōji Temple

Rinnoji Temple At Nikko World Heritage Sites

Founded by the Buddhist monk Shodo Shonin, Rinnoji is a significant temple in Nikko. The temple complex includes the Sanbutsudo (Three Buddha Hall), which houses three large gold-plated statues of Buddha, and the beautiful gardens surrounding the temple.

OPENING HOURS
8:00AM – 5:00PM (April-October)
8:00AM – 4:00PM (November-March)

ENTRANCE FEE
Adult 400
Children 200

Shonin Statue Entrance Of Nikko World Heritage Sites

Shōdō Shōnin Statue

The statue of Shōdō Shōnin – buddhist monk welcomes visitors at the entrance of the world heritage temple and shrine. It was built in 1955 to commemorate the establishment of Nikko, who founded Mt. Nikko in 766 during the Nara period.

#2 Nikkō Tōshogū Shrine

Omotemon Gate Nikko World Heritage Sites

Nikko Toshogu Shrine is the most famous and historically significant sites in the Nikko’s World Heritage Sites. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key cultural landmark in Japan. The shrine was built in 1617 after the death of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The shrine is known for its ornate architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful gates, such as the Yomeimon Gate.

OPENING HOURS
8:00AM – 5:00PM (April-October)
8:00AM – 4:00PM (November-March)

ENTRANCE FEE
Adult 1600
Children 550

Five Story Pagoda At Nikko World Heritage Sites

Gojū-no-tō (Five-story Pagoda)

Gojū-no-tō is the five-story pagoda located within the grounds of Toshogu Shrine in Nikko. The pagoda is an iconic and significant feature of the shrine complex. It is considered as the classic example of traditional Japanese pagoda architecture and adds to the shrine’s historic ambiance.

#3. Nikko Futarasan Shrine

Futurasan Shrine Nikko World Heritage Sites

Futarasan Shrine is dedicated to the deities of the three sacred mountains surrounding Nikko (Mount Nantai, Mount Nyohou, and Mount Taro). It has a long history and is known for its peaceful atmosphere and historical structures. The shrine is rich in history, offering insights into Shinto practices and the spiritual heritage of Nikko. There is no entrance fee to visit Futarasan Shrine itself. It is open to the public and accessible year-round.

OPENING HOURS
8:00AM – 5:00PM (April-October)
8:00AM – 4:00PM (November-March)

ENTRANCE FEE
FREE

#4 Rin’nōji Taiyū-in SHrine

Rinnoji Taiyuinbyo Shrine Entrance Nikko World Heritage Sites

This is the mausoleum of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate and grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Taiyuinbyo is less visited than Toshogu but is equally impressive, with beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens.

OPENING HOURS
8:00AM – 5:00PM (April-October)
8:00AM – 4:00PM (November-March)

ENTRANCE FEE
Adult 550
Children 250

Shinkyō Bridge

Shinkyo Bridge At Nikko World Heritage Sites

The Shinkyo Bridge is a picturesque located in Nikko that spans the Daiya River, near the entrance to Futarasan Shrine. The bridge is known for its beautiful design with vibrant red colors and traditional Japanese aesthetic. The bridge is popular photo spot and historically important, but access to the bridge is not free.

OPENING HOURS
8:00AM – 5:00PM (April-October)
8:00AM – 4:00PM (November-March)

ENTRANCE FEE
Adult 300

FINAL THOUGHTS

Entrance To Futurasan Shrine Nikko World Heritage Sites

Exploring the Nikko World Heritage Sites offers a rich experience of Japan’s cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Having visited the sites, it truely a key destination for those interested in exploring traditional Japanese heritage and natural beauty. Whether you are drawn by the intricate details of the shrines and temples or the tranquil beauty of the surrounding environment, Nikko offers a memorable and enriching experience that reflects the enduring legacy of Japan’s past.

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the gees travel

A wife and a mother of three toddlers | Previously working as customer service executive in a logistics supply chain | working at home mom. But in spite of this added responsibilities I still find time to travel and explore together with my family.

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