Nikko – One day private charter trip from Tokyo: How to Plan Your Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Tokyo, you must consider Nikko. Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is just a two-hour drive from Tokyo. A one-day private charter trip to Nikko is the perfect way to experience natural and cultural attractions as you explore the mountains, lakes, and waterfalls of this stunning region. Here’s a step-by-step guide to plan your tour, so you don’t miss a thing.

Step 1: Select a Suitable Tour

The first step in planning a tour to Nikko is to find a suitable tour operator. Viator offers a fantastic one-day private charter trip to Nikko. This tour is customizable, so you can tailor it according to your preferences and interests. The tour includes a private vehicle with a professional driver, fuel surcharge, parking fees, and WiFi on board. However, entry tickets and food are not included in the tour price.

Step 2: Choose a Pickup Point and Time

Viator’s one-day private charter trip to Nikko offers pickup from various points in Tokyo. You can choose a pickup point that’s convenient for you. After you book the tour, confirm the pickup time with the local tour operator in advance of your experience. The tour is available seven days a week, and you can start your tour anytime between 12:00 AM to 11:30 PM.

Step 3: Plan Your Itinerary

Nikko has numerous cultural and natural attractions, so planning your itinerary is crucial to make the most of your day trip. Here are some recommended attractions to visit.

Tobu World Square

Tobu World Square is a theme park that features miniature replicas of 102 famous buildings from around the world, including the Eiffel Tower and the New York World Trade Center. This park is an excellent opportunity to learn about different cultures and histories around the world.

Toshogu Shrine

Toshogu Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, a great shogun and political leader of Japan. The shrine is famous for its ornate wood carvings, gold-leaf decorations, and lavish structures.

Kegon Falls

Kegon Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Japan. It’s a 100-meter tall waterfall that plunges into Lake Chuzenji. You can take an elevator to an observation deck for a breathtaking view of the waterfall.

Lake Chuzenji

Lake Chuzenji is a serene alpine lake located in the mountains above Nikko. It’s a popular spot for hiking, boating, and fishing. You can take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside to appreciate the natural beauty of the region.

Step 4: Book Your Tour

Once you’ve planned your itinerary, you can book your one-day private charter trip to Nikko via Viator’s website. The link to book the tour is here: book the tour here. It’s recommended to book your tour in advance to secure your preferred pickup point and time.

Step 5: Pack Accordingly

As you’ll be spending a day outdoors, packing accordingly is essential. Here’s a list of things that you should consider bringing.

Comfortable Clothing

Wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing as you’ll be spending most of your day outdoors.

Comfortable Shoes

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking as you’ll be exploring mountainous terrain.

Sunscreen and Mosquito Repellent

Pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent to protect your skin from exposure to the sun and insects.

Cash and Cards

Bring enough cash and cards to cover your expenses, including entry tickets and food.

Conclusion

Nikko’s natural and cultural attractions offer the perfect day trip from Tokyo. By following this step-by-step guide, you can plan your tour to Nikko and enjoy a hassle-free day exploring the region. Remember to book your tour in advance, pack accordingly, and have a fantastic day trip to Nikko!

An Insider’s Guide to Nikko: Uncovering its Hidden Gems and Cultures

Nikko is a charming city in the Tochigi prefecture of Japan, located just a few hours away from bustling Tokyo. Often known for its heritage temples and stunning nature, Nikko has more to offer than meets the eye. Let’s take a look at the hidden gems, local cuisines, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your trip to Nikko unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Unearthing the Hidden Gems

While the heritage temples and natural landscapes like the Kegon Waterfall are the city’s top attractions, Nikko offers many hidden gems that only locals know about. The first one is the ‘Takino-o Shrine,’ a small temple that houses a giant, ancient cedar tree. The second spot is the ‘Goyotei Memorial Park,’ where you can witness Japan’s nostalgic Taisho-era architecture and get a glimpse into the life of royalty. Lastly, the ‘Senjogahara Plateau’ offers breathtaking views of vibrant wildflowers during the bloom season, which is an incredible sight to behold.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisines

Nikko is known for its fresh and authentic local cuisine, including its signature dish ‘Yuba,’ a soy-based dish made from the skin of soybeans. You can also indulge in mouth-watering local sushi, ramen, and soba, which are all authentic and unique to the region. For the ultimate food experience, ‘Okoromai,’ a small and cozy restaurant hidden in the mountains, serves fantastic traditional country-style cuisine, with a magnificent view of nature.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing in Nikko’s Traditions

Nikko is a city rich in culture and traditions, which are beautifully preserved over time. One of the most charming is the ‘Irohazaka Winding Road,’ where you can experience the traditional practice of driving a car with manual gears while navigating around the steep slopes and sharp turns. Another cultural experience is the ‘Nikko Woodcarving Center,’ where local artisans create and sell beautiful and intricate wood carvings that make for perfect souvenirs.

Local History: Unraveling the City’s Fascinating Stories

Nikko has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. One fascinating story is the legend of ‘Shiraito Falls,’ a hidden and serene waterfall nestled in the mountains. The legend states that the falls are the place of the goddess Kannon, who visits the falls every night to wash her hair. Another story is the ‘Shinkyo Bridge,’ a legendary bridge across the Daiya river. It is a symbol of power and prosperity and is the oldest of its kind in Japan.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Creating Memorable Experiences

To experience Nikko to the fullest, you must step off the beaten path and explore the city’s scenic and less-traveled routes. One suggestion is to visit the ‘Lake Chuzenjiko,’ an idyllic lake surrounded by mountains. You can also enjoy a leisurely walk through the ‘Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park,’ an authentic 17th-century palace built for Prince Yoshihito and his wife, Princess Tsuneko.

In conclusion, Nikko is an exceptional destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience to all its visitors. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, nature, or cuisine, Nikko has it all. By exploring its hidden gems, savoring its local cuisine, immersing in its culture, unraveling its history and exploring the off-the-beaten-path routes, you’ll be able to unveil the true beauty of this city.