East Japan Railway’s Tobu Launches FreePass for More Convenient Travel to Nikko

For those traveling to the Nikko area, most start by taking the Tobu Railway’s limited express train “Kegon” from Asakusa in Tokyo to Tobu-Nikko Station, or by taking the Tobu Isesaki Line’s direct rapid service to Nikko Station. Starting from mid-December 2009, Tobu Railway and Tobu Travel began selling a more convenient and affordable series of passes called the “Haneda Airport Departure Nikko & Kinugawa Tobu Free Pass” for tourists visiting the Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen areas via Haneda Airport.

The Tobu Free Pass includes a round-trip journey from Haneda Airport via the Keikyu Airport Line or the Tokyo Metro Asakusa Line, then transferring at Oshiage Station to the Tobu Isesaki Line and then to the Tobu Nikko Line to reach Nikko. It also allows free rides on Tobu Group buses in the Nikko and Kinugawa areas. The itinerary is designed primarily for tourists to enjoy the traditional townscapes of Asakusa. The pass is valid for four days and comes in three types: one covering all areas of Nikko and Kinugawa, another focusing on Nikko’s natural attractions and World Heritage sites, and a third for Kinugawa’s hot springs and theme parks. Prices vary slightly depending on the season, and the pass can also be used in combination with the limited express “SPACIA” train. 　　

To purchase the “Haneda Airport Departure Nikko & Kinugawa Tobu Free Pass” series, travelers can buy exchange vouchers at various Tobu Travel outlets, then exchange them for the actual passes at the Keikyu counter at Haneda Airport. Tourists can use the pass to explore tourist areas along the Tobu lines. It is recommended to start the trip by visiting Lake Chuzenji to admire its fairytale-like lake views, then take a bus to see the globally renowned sacred site of the “Two Shrines and One Temple.” Next, stop by century-old shops in downtown Nikko that sell a variety of local specialties to pick up travel souvenirs. On the second day, head to the Kinugawa area to enjoy a relaxing hot spring experience.

The all-you-can-ride pass, which includes round-trip travel from Haneda Airport plus free use of regional buses and trains, is priced at ¥5,190 for adults from December to March, ¥4,200 for children; and ¥4,840 for adults and ¥2,420 for children from April to November. Other options, including discount plans, are available upon request.

The round-trip ticket covering Haneda Airport plus all regional buses and trains is available for ¥5,190 for adults and ¥2,600 for children from December to March, and ¥4,840 for adults and ¥2,420 for children from April to November. Other ticket options and discount plans are also available upon inquiry.

Read more: World Heritage Site Himeji Castle in Kansai (provided by Tripass Attractions)