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Nikko Half Day Tour

Nikko Half Day Tour

Car Tour (driving guide)

Joined 2024

Keiichiro I.

5.00 / 5

(12 reviews)

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

Nikko

English, Japanese (Native)

4 hours

Private tour (only you and Keiichiro I.)

Up to 3 people

Experience the beauty of Nikko in a half-day tour. Visit the ornate Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Drive through the scenic Irohazaka road with its winding curves and mountain views. Stop at Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s top waterfalls, cascading 97 meters. End the tour at the peaceful Lake Chuzenji, nestled in the mountains, perfect for a relaxing stroll and photo spot.

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

10:00 AM

Meeting Point

Tobu Nikko Station, JR Nikko station, or Hotels in or around Nikko

- If you stay in or near Nikko, I will come to your hotel. If you are coming from Tokyo or other area on the day of the tour, I will come to the station either Tobu Nikko station or JR Nikko staion.

10:20 AM

Nikko Tosyogu shrine, Rinnoji temple, and Futarasan shrine

Nikko’s most iconic historical site, the Toshogu Shrine, a lavishly decorated shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Marvel at the intricate wood carvings, including the famous “Three Wise Monkeys” and the sleeping cat (Nemuri-neko), and explore the grandeur of Yomeimon Gate.

11:40 AM

Iroazaka winding road

Irohazaka is a scenic mountain road in Nikko with 48 sharp curves, each named after a character of the old Japanese alphabet. It connects central Nikko to the Oku-Nikko area, offering stunning views, especially in autumn when the leaves turn vibrant colors.

12:10 PM

Lunch Break

Enjoy a delicious and healthy lunch featuring Yuba (湯波), a local specialty made from tofu skin. Nikko's yuba is known for its delicate texture and rich soybean flavor, often served in various styles such as yuba sashimi, yuba donburi (rice bowl), or yuba soba. Many traditional restaurants in the area offer beautifully prepared yuba dishes in a serene, Japanese-style setting, making for a perfect mid-day break during your sightseeing.　　　　　　　Please note that the cost of lunch is not included in the tour price, and guests are kindly requested to pay for their own meals.

01:00 PM

Kegon Fall

Kegon Falls is one of Japan’s most spectacular waterfalls, plunging 97 meters down a rugged cliffside from Lake Chuzenji. As one of the country's Three Great Waterfalls, it offers breathtaking views in all seasons—lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and a frozen cascade in winter. Visitors can admire the falls from an upper viewing platform or take an elevator down to the base for a closer look at its powerful flow. A must-visit natural wonder in Nikko!

01:40 PM

Lake Chuzenji

Nestled at the foot of Mt. Nantai, Lake Chuzenji is a serene and picturesque lake located at an altitude of 1,269 meters, making it Japan’s highest natural lake. Formed by volcanic activity, the lake offers stunning views year-round, with cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and a peaceful snow-covered landscape in winter. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises, lakeside walks, and visits to Chuzenji Temple, which features a unique statue of Kannon carved into a tree. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in Nikko’s natural beauty. You can also enjoy lunch at the restaurants around the lake.

02:10 PM

Senjogahara Marshland

Senjogahara Marshland is a vast, scenic wetland in Nikko, offering some of the best hiking trails in the region. Spanning about 400 hectares, it sits at an altitude of 1,400 meters and provides breathtaking views of Mt. Nantai and the surrounding mountains. The area is rich in wildlife, with diverse plant species and many birdwatching opportunities. A well-maintained hiking trail (about 6 km) takes visitors through the marsh, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers, especially in autumn, when the golden grasses create a stunning landscape.

Ending Point

Tobu Nikko Station, JR Nikko station, or Hotels in or around Nikko

Want to personalize this tour?

This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What‘s included

*Guide fee

*Transportation type of car: Volvo V60, toll fees, and gasoline expenses.

*parking fee

What‘s not included

*Lunch

*Entrance fees(Tosyogu shrine, Kegon fall )

*Drinks, street foods, souvenirs, and your personal expenses

*Traveler's insurance

Tour Important Information

* This tour involves walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

* This tour is not recommended for those with severe back/knee problems.

* This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

*This tour is closed on Mondays.

This tour is closed on Mondays.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time

Joined 2024

Keiichiro I.

5.00 / 5

(12 reviews)

Identity Verified

Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Keiichiro I.

Hello everyone, and welcome to North Kanto area, the land where tradition meets tranquility!

I am Keiichiro Izawa, your dedicated tour guide for today's adventure through this culturally rich and naturally stunning prefecture.

Born and raised right here in Ibaraki, I have developed a deep connection to its history, heritage, and hidden gems. With a background as an English teacher and translator, I'm here to ensure that every step of our journey is not just informative, but also enjoyable.

One of my passions lies in exploring historical sites such as shrines, temples, and castles, where the echoes of the past resonate through time. But don't worry, our exploration won't be limited to just the ancient wonders. I'm also a nature enthusiast, drawn to the majestic mountains and serene beaches that adorn our landscape.

And what's a trip without savoring the flavors of the local cuisine? I'll be your culinary guide, leading you to the best-hidden eateries where you can indulge in authentic dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

So buckle up and get ready to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of North Kanto. Let's embark on a journey filled with history, nature, and delicious discoveries!

Reviews

Barbara B.

5 / 5

Nov 5, 2025

Discover Nikko: A Journey Through History and Nature

Nov 5, 2025

Nikko

8 hours

“Brilliant Nikko Tour with fantastic guide”

Keiichiro was very knowledgeable, outgoing, friendly and enthusiastic about all the places he showed us and an absolute pleasure to be with. Having lived in the US for some time, his English is excellent. Thanks for a wonderful experience, Barbara and Werner

Maddox S.

5 / 5

Nov 2, 2025

Nikko Special One Day Tour

Nov 2, 2025

Nikko

8 hours

Customized

“Not just a guide, but a highlight of our trip”

I could write an entire review about how beautiful Nikko is — and I wouldn’t be lying. The shrines, nature, history… it’s truly breathtaking. But to only talk about Nikko would be underselling this experience. Because what truly made our visit unforgettable wasn’t just the location — it was Keiichiro. If you’re looking for just a guide, this might not be the review for you. But if you’re looking for a warm, reliable, deeply knowledgeable person who will elevate your Nikko experience and turn it into a lifelong memory — then there’s no better option than Keiichiro. Whether you're hoping for something deeply cultural, more laid-back and scenic, or even flexible and fun — Keiichiro will adapt to your style with the same gentle enthusiasm and care. He’s not just informative, he’s interactive, engaging, and always thinking one step ahead to ensure your day is perfect. One of the best parts? Keiichiro drives. This gives you the freedom to explore Nikko at your own pace — staying longer at places that touch your heart, and heading off when you're ready. It’s hard to describe how liberating this flexibility is, especially when paired with such a thoughtful guide. If you’re reading this, Keiichiro — thank you. You were one of the true highlights of our Japan trip. We hope to see you again someday, maybe on another of your amazing tours. Warmest regards, Maddox

Keiichiro I.

Thank you so much for this wonderful and heartfelt review. I truly appreciate the time and care you put into writing such warm words. Guiding you through Nikko was an absolute pleasure for me as well — your curiosity, kindness, and genuine appreciation for the culture and scenery made the day very special. Nikko is a place full of history, nature, and quiet beauty, but what makes each tour truly unique are the people I share it with. I am deeply grateful that you allowed me to be a small part of your journey in Japan. If this day became one of your most memorable experiences, that is the greatest honor I could receive as a guide. Thank you again for your trust and wonderful company throughout the day. I hope that one day, we can meet again — perhaps in Netherland.

Gideon T.

5 / 5

Oct 30, 2025

Discover Nikko: A Journey Through History and Nature

Oct 30, 2025

Nikko

7 hours 30 mins

“Great Nikko day trip”

Keiichiro-san was a knowledgable guide, sharing all he knows, including the history of the places he brought us. He is well-versed in English and his great sense of humour made the trip even more enjoyable. Highly recommended guide for Nikko.

Keiichiro I.

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour and the stories about Nikko’s history. It was truly a pleasure guiding you, and I really appreciated our conversations along the way. I look forward to seeing you again when you visit Japan next time.