Tochigi Prefecture’s Nikko is considered a sacred UNESCO World Heritage Site by the Japanese. The Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines in the Nikko region are masterpieces of Edo-period architecture. Spiritually, the religious buildings and the surrounding mountain forests create a layout that is both harmonious and philosophically rich—a perfect example of humans and gods, and the artificial and the natural, coexisting peacefully. A visit to Nikko wouldn’t be complete without experiencing an onsen. The renowned Kinugawa Onsen is one of Japan’s premier hot spring destinations and a favorite among Tokyo locals.
Most visitors reach the Nikko area from Asakusa in Tokyo by taking the Tobu Railway’s limited express train “Kegon” to Tobu-Nikko Station, or by taking the direct rapid service on the Tobu Isesaki Line to Nikko Station. Starting in 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 traveling from Haneda Airport to the Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen regions.
The Tobu Free Pass is a round-trip ticket 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 operating in the Nikko and Kinugawa areas. The pass is designed mainly for travelers wanting to enjoy the traditional downtown charm of Asakusa. The ticket is valid for four days and comes in three types: one covering the entire Nikko and Kinugawa region, one focusing on Nikko’s natural attractions and World Heritage Sites, and one tailored for Kinugawa’s hot springs and theme parks. Ticket prices vary slightly by season, and the pass can also be used in conjunction 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 sales outlets, and then exchange those vouchers at the Haneda Airport counter of Keikyu Railway for the actual pass. With the pass, visitors can take a tour around sightseeing spots along the Tobu Line. It is recommended to start the trip by visiting Chuzenji Lake to admire its fairytale-like beautiful lake scenery, then take a bus to see the world-famous shrine complex of the "Two Shrines and One Temple," followed by shopping for local souvenirs at century-old stores in downtown Nikko that sell regional specialties. The next day, you can continue on to the Kinugawa area to enjoy a rejuvenating onsen experience.
The round-trip ticket covering Haneda Airport plus free use of all regional buses and trains has the following prices: 5,190 yen for adults from December to March, 2,600 yen for children; and 4,840 yen for adults and 2,420 yen for children from April to November. Other options and discounts are also available upon request.
Read more: Himeji Castle, a World Heritage Site in Kansai (provided by Tripass Attractions)
