Explore Nikko in a Day with Tobu Pass

Previously, I recommended the JR Wide Area Pass, which covers travel to Nikko. However, since I used it for trips to Yuzawa for skiing and to Karuizawa for church visits, the 3-day validity wasn't enough for Nikko. But don't worry, there's a more affordable Tobu Pass for Nikko. The pass comes in two types: a 4-day and a 2-day version. I opted for the 2-day pass, which includes regular train rides from Asakusa to Tobu Nikko Station, excluding express trains, and bus tickets for the Nikko World Heritage area and Kinugawa area. Important note: the express train is not included, but you can pay extra for it. However, to save money, if you plan a day trip, make sure to catch the 6:50 AM slow train. You'll transfer at Tobu Zoo and Minami-Kurihashi, arriving in Nikko at 9:18 AM, just over half an hour later than the express. Later trains take nearly an hour longer, so for a same-day return, this train is essential. Upon arrival, you can take the World Heritage Loop Bus around 9:30 AM to the vicinity of Toshogu Shrine, your first stop. Nikko's World Heritage sites include two shrines and one temple: Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple. Toshogu Shrine is a highlight, being the main shrine in Nikko and a Japanese national treasure, built during the Edo period as the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu. It's one of the most ornate temples I've visited in Japan. Notable sights include the Sacred Stable with carvings of the Three Wise Monkeys, embodying the Confucian principle "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil." Other highlights are the Copper Torii, the National Treasure Yomeimon Gate, the Inner Shrine, and the famous Sleeping Cat carving above the entrance. Arriving early means fewer crowds and perfect sunlight, allowing you to stroll leisurely, enjoy the views, or sit quietly. Don't miss the goshuin (temple stamps) and omamori (charms), and remember to bring cash. Futarasan Shrine is an ancient shrine, the source of Nikko's mountain faith. It enshrines Okuninushi no Mikoto, the god of matchmaking, known for its blessings in relationships. The shrine is small but features a sacred spring; drink a few sips for free, but there's a charge to take some home. The Seven Lucky Gods are also worth visiting. Taiyuin uses a black and gold color scheme, giving it a solemn and dignified feel. The temple's 315 stone lanterns are impressive, and it features a 500-year-old Kongozakura cherry tree, which blooms beautifully in spring. In autumn, the temple's Japanese garden offers stunning views of the fall foliage. Rinnoji Temple encompasses various Buddhist halls, pagodas, and 15 temples scattered across Nikko. The Sanbutsudo is the largest wooden structure in Nikko, housing statues of Kannon, Amida, and Bato Kannon. It also features a newly unveiled statue of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Shinkyo Bridge is a beautiful vermilion wooden bridge at the entrance to Nikko, considered one of Japan's three great bridges alongside Saruhashi in Yamanashi and Kintaikyo in Yamaguchi. There's a fee to cross, but you can admire it from the roadside. After your visit, you can stroll back to the station. The slow train around 5 PM will get you back to Tokyo by 8 PM. #NikkoTravelGuide #TokyoDayTrips #ChildfreeCoupleAdventures