Enjoy World Heritage Sites and Local Cuisine on an Autumn Day Trip to Nikko and Kinugawa

Abundant natural scenery and Muslim-friendly facilities

The ever-changing beauty of the seasons is one of Japan’s major attractions. In autumn, the mountains turn shades of red and gold with colorful foliage. If seeing the fall colors is a goal for your trip to Japan, Kinugawa Onsen and Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture are ideal.

Nikko is blessed with natural attractions including the scenic Lake Chuzenji, numerous waterfalls, wetlands, and more. Visitors to Nikko have ample choices when it comes to enjoying the seasonal foliage, from the tree-lined winding roads of Irohazaka (Kurokamidaira Observatory) to the colorful landscapes of Ryuzu Falls and Kirifuri Falls. Lake Chuzenji, is a must-see spot, surrounded by beautiful foliage in the fall.

The Shrines and Temples of Nikko are a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprised of several temple and shrine complexes. Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a must-visit spot and the focal point of Nikko’s historical buildings. While in Nikko, you can try traditional dishes like soba and tempura, prepared with local ingredients. 

Nikko’s Muslim-friendly tourist measures are well developed. The Tobu Railway offers a Nikko Guide for Muslims catered specially to visitors. The prayer room located at Tobu Nikko Station can be used year-round from 8:20 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Please inquire at the Tobu Nikko Station Tourist Center on the first floor. Please also note that the station is quite busy in the mornings, so it is best to give advance notice.

Visit the following link for more information on Muslim-friendly restaurants and facilities in Nikko region: Nikko Guide for Muslims

A World Heritage Site enhanced by autumn colors

Let’s start our trip at Nikko Toshogu Shrine. A designated World Heritage Site, Nikko Toshogu Shrine has more than 400 years of history. Its Yomeimon Gate is decorated in more than 500 carvings in dazzling colors, that become even more stunning when surrounded by autumn leaves.

When you’re hungry after a day of exploring, stop by the long-established restaurant Kamaya Cafe du Reverbere in front of Tobu Nikko Station, which has a Muslim-friendly menu. Here, you can enjoy local dishes and desserts. As part of their Muslim-friendly measures, the restaurant uses separate cooking utensils, and tableware for their Muslim guests.

Kamaya Cafe du Reverbere
Address: 12-6 Matsubara, Nikko-shi, Tochigi-ken
Access: From Tobu Nikko Station, approximately 2 minutes by foot

Alternatively, from JR Nikko Station, approximately 3 minutes by foot

Tobu Nikko Station
Access: From Asakusa Station, take a train to Tobu Nikko Station (approximately 110 minutes). Alternatively, from Shinjuku Station, take a train to Tobu Nikko Station (approximately 120 minutes)

Tobu Nikko Station

Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Address: 2301 Yamauchi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi-ken
Access: From Tobu Nikko Station, take a bus to Omotesando Bus Stop (approximately 7 minutes), then 4 minutes by foot to the shrine

Enjoy the beautiful scenery and cuisine of Okunikko

While visiting Nikko, take the time to explore Okunikko for even more spectacular seasonal sights. Kegon Falls is one of the three most famous waterfalls in Japan, and the sounds of its cascading waters can be enjoyed from a dedicated observation deck. Lake Chuzenji is a picturesque lake that has popular as a summer resort since the Meiji era (1868–1912). The former villas for foreign ambassadors still remain near the lake, and visitors can explore their distinct architecture and furnishings.

Kegon Falls
Address: Chugushi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi-ken
Access: From Tobu Nikko Station, take a bus to Chuzenji Onsen Bus Terminal (approximately 45 minutes), then 5 minutes by foot to the falls

Kegon Falls

Lake Chuzenji
Address: Chugushi, Nikko-shi, Tochigi-ken
Access: From JR Nikko Station, take a bus to Chuzenji Onsen bus stop (approximately 50 minutes), then 5 minutes by foot
Alternatively, from Tobu Nikko Station, take a bus to Chuzenji Onsen bus stop (approximately 45 minutes), then 5 minutes by foot  
Lake Chuzenji

Muslim-friendly facilities in Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen

Tobu World Square near Kinugawa Onsen is an architectural museum that showcases miniature 1/25-scale replicas of world-famous buildings and heritage sites all within one compound. This popular attraction allows you to experience a quick trip around the world without leaving Japan. Furthermore, approximately 20,000 bonsai trees are planted around the buildings, making it even more like you’ve arrived on a miniature planet.

Located in the park is Nikko Yuba Magokoro, a restaurant which has a menu for Muslim visitors upon request, although it is in Japanese. The park also has a prayer room equipped with wudu facilities and implements for visitors to comfortably perform their prayers. Please ask at the ticket counter or information center if you wish to use these facilities.

Tobu World Square
Address: 209-1 Kinugawaonsen Ohara, Nikko-shi, Tochigi-ken
Access: From Asakusa Station, take a train to Tobu World Square Station (approximately 120 minutes)

From Kinugawa Onsen Station, take a bus (approximately 5 minutes)
Tobu World Square

Nikko Yuba Magokoro
Address: 209-1 Kinugawaonsen Ohara, Nikko-shi, Tochigi-ken (inside Tobu World Square)
Nikko Yuba Magokoro

While Nikko’s landscapes can be enjoyed throughout the year, the best period to visit is from mid-October to late November at the peak of autumn. Enjoy crisp autumn breezes and the crunch of bright foliage, and make sure to also include seasonal dishes and the visit to the famous World Heritage Sites.