Tochigi Prefecture lies around 100 km north of Tokyo – with Utsunomiya, its most populous city, about one hour by bullet train.
The area is known for its deep historical roots, mountainous landscapes- and some of Japan’s most revered religious sites – balancing Japan’s spiritual traditions with the environment’s natural beauty, with ornate shrines, waterfalls, lakes, and hot spring towns, all within easy reach of the capital.
The northern Nasu and Nikko areas are home to a range of mountains with peaks more than 2,000 meters high, giving way to wide open plains in the south.
Tochigi is particularly famous for Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage area. Nikko is home to some of the country’s most magnificent temples and shrines, spread over three complexes.
The Nasu area, is one of the premier highland resort areas in Japan, the central area with Utsunomiya as its transportation hub, the eastern area which have thriving traditional crafts, and the southern area, which is nearest to Tokyo and once flourished as a commercial center.
Stop in Utsunomiya for ultra-famous gyoza, or the hot spring resort of Kinugawa Onsen for a dip and a river cruise. Lake Chuzenji is a picturesque backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities.
Nikko – where magnificent architecture, deep history and untouched nature merge
Nikko’s beautiful setting and sacred mountains have been the backdrop of Shinto and Buddhist worship since at least the 8th century.
Its most famous shrines and temples, among the most magnificent in Japan, are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The surrounding national park is a destination for hikers of all levels.
Kinugawa Onsen – hot springs, scenic valleys, waterfalls and educational theme parks
After a long day of temples, shrines, and sightseeing in Nikko , stay at a traditional Japanese inn in Kinugawa Onsen.
The next day, enjoy the scenery, hiking along river gorges, and a ride on a riverboat.
For centuries, inns have taken advantage of the clear, soft waters around the river Kinugawa, and built many hot springs in the area.
Travelers in those days looked to the river hot springs for a relaxing getaway. The hot spring inns here are still popular places to stay after a day of sightseeing in Nikko .
Edo Wonderland (Nikko Edomura) is a Japanese cultural theme park in Nikko that recreates a traditional town from the Edo period (1603–1867).
Visitors can experience historical life through live ninja theater shows, period costume rentals, and interactive craft workshops.
Kinugawa River Rafting and Canyoning
The Kinugawa River, which flows across the Kanto plain, is a hub of natural beauty and adventure. The Nikko section of the river is characterized by dramatic gorges and distinct seasonal changes in natural scenery. From early summer, you can get active on the water by rafting and canyoning. Book a tour and join forces with your group to clamber and climb through waterfalls and water basins.
Ride the luxurious Spacia X train
The Spacia X is a luxury limited express train which connects Asakusa in Tokyo with Nikko and Kinugawa-onsen ( around 2 hours) – offering high-end interior designs inspired by traditional Edo crafts.
While the bullet train to and from the area is faster, the Spacia X is definitely something that all visitors to Japan should experience, offering a mix of traditional Japanese charm and modern elegance- the perfect way to travel in style.Experience the Goen Cafe ( Car one) – serving local craft beers, sake, and snacks.
The spacious seats, soft lighting and panoramic views make the journey as exciting as the destination.
