Known as one of the most popular places in all of Japan for admiring the autumn foliage, Nikko is also home to a wealth of historical shrines and temples, not to mention the hot spring resorts around nearby Kinugawa Onsen. This charming destination up in Tochigi prefecture is also the subject of 50 things to do in Nikko, our latest addition to the much-loved (thank you, as always) Time Out Tokyo guide map series.
Your complete guide to exploring the entire Nikko area, including Oku-Nikko ('inner Nikko') and Kinugawa Onsen, 50 things lets you in on plenty of local secrets while also listing essential sights, unmissable restaurants (soba, anyone?) and visit-worthy souvenir shops.
Best known for its majestic natural beauty, particularly around Lake Chuzenji and Oku-Nikko, where waterfalls, milky-white hot springs and and marshlands decorate the scenery, Nikko is also a superb destination for foodies: you'll be sure to stumble upon several excellent soba eateries wherever you go, while true gourmands will want to home in on some Tochigi wagyu steak and sip local sake or Tochigi-brewed craft beer.
Pick up your free copy of 50 things to do in Nikko now at major train stations, hotels and tourist information centres in Nikko, or get the guide before your trip at a tourist info centre right here in Tokyo. Alternatively, you could visit our very own Time Out Café & Diner in Ebisu to get your hands on a copy – and a tasty burger, hearty serving of curry or pint of Hoegaarden.
