Attractions · Nikko

Things to do in Nikko.

The shrine sells itself; the day tours from Tokyo are how most people buy the trip.

The most lavishly carved shrine in Japan, the mausoleum of the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, in the cedars above the town.

How to book: Tickets at the gate or online; arrive at opening for the carvings in peace.

The Edo-period theme park: ninja shows, costumed streets and a working film-set town.

How to book: Tickets online or at the door; costume rental inside.

The 97 metre waterfall out of Lake Chuzenji, seen from the free upper deck or the elevator platform at its base.

How to book: The base platform charges a fee; the upper deck is free.

The high lake above the town: boat cruises, embassy villas and autumn colour earlier than anywhere near Tokyo.

How to book: Cruises ticket at the pier, seasonal.

The vermillion sacred bridge at the entrance to the shrines, over the Daiya river gorge.

How to book: A small fee to walk across it; the view of it is free.

The world at 1:25 scale: a hundred famous buildings in miniature, crowds included.

How to book: Tickets online or at the door.

The great temple of the Nikko mountains, home of three gilded Buddhas.

How to book: Tickets at the gate.

The shrine of the mountain gods, between Toshogu and the sacred bridge, and quieter than both.

How to book: A small entry fee.

The riverside hot spring town down the line: gorge boats, day baths and rows of ryokan.

How to book: Day baths at the hotels; gorge boat rides ticket at the pier.

Toshogu, the Irohazaka switchbacks, Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls in one long day from the capital.

How to book: Full-day tours run daily from Tokyo.

The dragon's-head cascade on the upper road, the colour spot above Chuzenji.

How to book: Free viewing platform.

Planning the stay itself: the city guides cover what is on, and the hotels page covers where to sleep near it.