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Nikko Toshogu World Hertiage Site Bullet Train Day Trip from Tokyo with Utsunomiya gyoza stopover
Embark on a captivating journey from Tokyo to Utsunomiya and Nikko on the bullet train. Explore Nikko's Toshogu Shrine, renowned for its intricate carvings. Discover serene shrines like Taiyuin and Rinnoji, offering glimpses into Japan's spiritual heritage. Then, in Utsunomiya, savor the renowned gyoza at Minmin, renowned as the best in Japan. Conclude with a swift bullet train ride back to Tokyo, reflecting on the day's cultural immersion and culinary delights.
Meeting Point
Your Hotel
- I can pick you up at your hotel within the 23wards of Tokyo
Tokyo Station
We will take the bullet train to Utsunomiya and then a local to train to Nikko. The total trip takes about 1 hour and 45minutes to 2 hours. After arriving at the Nikko station we take a short bus for about 220 yen or a few coins directly to Toshogu Shrine. It is a walkable distance from the station.
Exploring Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and serene surroundings. Dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, it's a masterpiece of Japanese architecture, offering a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.
Lunch Time
We will have lunch at one of a handful of restaurants near the Toshogu shrine. You try the local Yuba of Nikko, or I usually just go for a steak.
Taiyuin and Rinnoji Shrines
Taiyuin Shrine, built in 1653, serves as the mausoleum of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third Tokugawa shogun. Its architecture blends simplicity with intricate details, reflecting the shogun's modesty and devotion. Rinnoji Temple, founded in the 8th century, is one of Nikko's oldest temples. It houses significant Buddhist artifacts and offers a serene retreat amidst towering cedar trees. Both sites provide a glimpse into Japan's rich historical and spiritual heritage.
Gift Shops in Nikko
Nikko boasts an array of charming gift shops offering unique souvenirs. From traditional crafts like ceramics and woodwork to modern trinkets and snacks, visitors can find treasures to commemorate their journey. Don't miss Toshogu Omotesando for traditional crafts or the bustling streets near Shinkyo Bridge for local specialties.
Minmin Gyoza: Culinary Gem of Utsunomiya
After an hour-long journey on the local train to Utsunomiya, treat yourself to the legendary Minmin Gyoza near the station. Renowned as Japan's finest, its succulent fillings and crispy exteriors promise a culinary delight. Don't miss the chance to savor the best gyoza in the Gyoza Capital of Japan.
Tokyo Station
We will leave Utsunomiya and arrive in Tokyo 40minutes by bullet train.
Ending Point
Your Hotel
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Inclusions & Exclusions
Tour Guiding
Interpreting
Hotel Pick Up/Drop within Tokyo 23wards
Guides Transportation
Guides Admissions
Guides Lunch
You need to purchase the JR East Tokyo WIDE rail pass which is roughly 15,000yen for 3days.
Bus fare roughly 220yen one way
Admissions: Toshogu 1800yen, other shrines 900yen roughly.
Your transportation.
Your Admissions.
Your Lunch and Dinner.
Tour Important Information
This tour is only available Wednesday to Friday as part of a 3 day - day trips from Tokyo.
This tour is designed to be part of 3 day trip set maximizing the utility of the JR East Tokyo WIDE bullet train pass. You need to book 3 tours as a set Wednesday to Friday.
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
Tokyo Tour Reviews
“Deep knowledge”
Grant is very knowledgeable of his tour materials and very friendly and kind. He speaks a bit softly, and if you use his services in large groups, you may need to take charge of not losing anyone as he walks fast.
“Great private tour with a local”
The Ginza line tour was a great introduction to the Tokyo metro line. In our first day in Tokyo, Grant showed us around Tokyo using Ginza subway line.He adjusted the itinerary per our request. He showed us how his favorite food spots and stores. We visited many attractions including shopping in Shibuya. If you want a tour that felt like having a friend showing you around town, this is it!
Prof patrick G.
Tea Garden and Tsukiji Fish Market Half-day Tour
““Knowledgeable,,intelligent””
Grant is the ultimate tour guide! He is very intelligent and his knowledge of Tokyo is great and he speaks Japanese Fluent. What more could anyone ask for? Having grant as your tour guide will give you total peace and joy as he leads you wherever your heart desires. Do yourself a favor if you want a stress-free, meaningful trip to Tokyo hire Grant as your ultimate Tokyo tour guide! You will enyoy every minute wit Grant.
