Tochigi Prefecture, located in the northern part of the Kanto region of Japan, is a world heritage treasure trove, home to well-preserved historical sites such as the Toshogu Shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Shogunate, Rinnoji Temple, and the Nikko Futarasan Shrine. These sites are highly cherished by the Japanese, especially during the seasons of spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, which attract many visitors. From April 26 until the end of November, Tobu Railway is selling the special “Premium Nikko & Kinugawa Tobu Free Pass,” allowing travelers to freely use transportation around the Nikko and Kinugawa areas, making it easy to extend their trips beyond Tokyo.
Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture is globally renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and Nikko Futarasan Shrine. Among them, the most magnificent is the Toshogu Shrine, an architectural gem of the Momoyama culture, which was registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in December 1999. After entering the main entrance of the Two Shrines and One Temple, you’ll first come across Rinnoji Temple. Spring is the best time to visit, as the 400-year-old Kongō Zakura (Diamond Cherry) tree in front of the Sanbutsudō (Three Buddha Hall) boasts not only lush, grand blossoms but also a significantly expanded blooming area. Standing at the foot of the Sanbutsudō, the unrestrained bloom of the Kongō Zakura offers a striking contrast to the restrained aura of the temple.
Additionally, Chuzenji Lake and Kegon Falls are must-visit spots in Nikko. You can take a cruise on Chuzenji Lake to enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain scenery. Not far from the Chuzenji Lake bus stop, Kegon Falls cascades down from a 99-meter-high cliff, creating an exceptionally impressive sight. It’s recommended to start your Nikko journey with a visit to Chuzenji Lake to admire its fairytale-like lake views, followed by the majestic Kegon Falls. Then take a bus to the sacred site of the Two Shrines and One Temple, and finally explore the century-old shops in downtown Nikko for some travel souvenirs.
The special “Premium Nikko & Kinugawa Tobu Free Pass” sold by Tobu Railway includes a round-trip ticket from the starting station to Tobu Nikko and Yumoto Onsen, a round-trip SPACIA limited express ticket from Asakusa, Kita-Senju, or Kasukabe, as well as free rides on route buses within the valid zone, Chuzenji Lake cruise boats, and the Akechidaira Ropeway. The pass is available from April 26 and is valid for five days. The price for passes starting from Asakusa ranges from 7,860 to 8,500 yen and can be purchased at any Tobu Travel branch.
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