Nikko, famous for its many attractions such as the UNESCO World Heritage site “Nikko Toshogu Shrine” and its easy access from Tokyo, is a popular tourist destination for casual trips throughout the year. However, during the autumn foliage season, its popularity soars even further, as it boasts some of Japan’s most outstanding autumn foliage spots.
This article introduces Nikko’s recommended five autumn foliage locations, the best times to visit, and our carefully curated selection of six top-rated hotels.
Best Autumn Foliage Spots in Nikko:
Nikko’s autumn foliage spots are situated at varying altitudes, each with unique environments that nurture diverse natural beauty. This allows visitors to enjoy extraordinary landscapes, especially during the autumn foliage period. The colorful leaves can be appreciated over an extended period, from late September to November. Let me introduce the five best autumn foliage spots you should visit when in Nikko.
Irohazaka
Irohazaka, selected as one of the “100 Best Roads in Japan,” is a popular tourist route connecting the city center with Lake Chuzenji and Oku-Nikko. With an altitude difference of about 500m (1,640 ft), the autumn colors vary subtly along the way, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing hues while driving. The road, consisting of 48 hairpin curves, is known as one of Nikko’s most famous autumn foliage spots. Renting a car for a self-drive tour is highly recommended.
Lake Chuzenji
Located at above 1,269m (4,163 ft), Lake Chuzenji is the highest natural lake in Japan. Situated at the entrance of Oku-Nikko, it boasts some of Nikko’s most iconic natural landscapes. In addition to the stunning autumn foliage, the lake offers year-round attractions, including boating, fishing, and hiking. Taking a sightseeing boat to enjoy the scenery of the colorful leaves reflected on the lake’s surface is highly recommended.
Kegon Waterfall
Kegon Waterfall, one of Japan’s three most famous waterfalls, stands an impressive 97m (318 ft) tall. The sight of the water plunging from the cliff into the basin below is truly breathtaking. Visitors can take a paid elevator to get close to the basin and experience the powerful sound and spray of the waterfall up close. The combination of autumn colors and the waterfall, as seen from the Akechidaira Observatory, is a must-see.
Tips for Visiting Nikko During Autumn Foliage 🍂
Avoid weekends : Visit Nikko on weekdays. During autumn foliage season (mid-Oct to early Nov), it gets crowded with Japanese visitors on weekends, causing severe traffic jams, especially on Irohazaka and around Nikko Toshogu Shrine. It’s better to adjust your itinerary accordingly.
Rent a car : Nikko’s major attractions (Toshogu Shrine, Lake Chuzenji, Setoaikyo Canyon) are not within walking distance. Renting a car is recommended to fully enjoy Nikko. At the same time please keep in mind that during autumn foliage season, it’s best to avoid weekends.🤣
Other Notable Autumn Foliage Spots in Nikko:
Two more must-see autumn foliage spots in Nikko are the famous UNESCO World Heritage site, Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which is always popular but especially beautiful during the colorful season, and Setoaikyo Canyon, a stunning location that is particularly breathtaking in autumn. If your schedule allows, be sure to include these in your itinerary.
Nikko Toshogu Shrine
The UNESCO World Heritage site consisting of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple is the most famous tourist attraction in Nikko. The area around these shrines and temples is also bustling during the autumn foliage season. The combination of yellow and red-tinted trees adds to the allure of Nikko’s religious sites. The area is illuminated for only a few days during the peak viewing period, making it an excellent time to visit.
Setoaikyo Canyon
Setoaikyo Canyon, formed by the erosion of tuff, features imposing cliffs about 100m (328 ft) high that stretch for approx. 2km (1.2 miles). The awe-inspiring view can be enjoyed from the road. The suspension bridge and promenade are scheduled to be open until late November in 2024, accessible between 9:00-16:00 (last entry at 15:00).
Where to Stay for the Best Nikko Autumn Experience?
Here are our recommendations for hotels near Lake Chuzenji and in Nikko. Although outstanding hotels may be few, as frequent visitors to the area, we’ve carefully selected six hotels based on our experiences.
Our top pick? The Ritz-Carlton Nikko, of course! Once you stay, you’ll totally get why they chose Lake Chuzenji. It’s so breathtaking. (just like the price.🤣) If history’s more your thing, check out Nikko Kanaya Hotel, Japan’s first hotel for foreign tourists. It’s near Nikko Toshogu Shrine and oozes with historical charm.
Experience Unparalleled Luxury at the Doorstep of Lake Chuzenji
Situated right in front of Lake Chuzenji, the Ritz-Carlton Nikko is the epitome of luxury in Nikko. With the Ritz-Carlton’s discerning choice of location, it’s no surprise that this hotel is nothing short of exceptional. The facilities and services are outstanding, and the rooms offer stunning views of Lake Chuzenji’s magnificent autumn foliage.
The hotel is just a 5-min walk from the majestic Kegon Falls, so close you can almost hear the roar of the cascading water. The culinary offerings are equally impressive, but be prepared for prices that match the Ritz-Carlton’s world-class standards. 😉
Step Back in Time at Japan’s Oldest Classic Resort Hotel
Designated as a cultural property, Nikko Kanaya Hotel, established in 1873, is Japan’s oldest classic resort hotel. Located just a 15-minute walk from Nikko Toshogu Shrine, it is conveniently situated for sightseeing. The hotel’s atmosphere is a blend of Japanese architectural beauty and Western furniture and furnishings, creating a unique ambiance that is characteristic of classic hotels.
The hotel retains the charm of the Meiji era, evoking a nostalgic and gentle feeling in its visitors. During the autumn foliage season from late September to November, guests can enjoy the extraordinary landscapes created by the diverse natural beauty nurtured at varying altitudes in Nikko, one of Japan’s most outstanding autumn foliage destinations.
Embrace Nature’s Symphony in a Lakeside Log Cabin Retreat
Nestled in the heart of Nikko National Park, on the shores of Lake Chuzenji, the birthplace of resort life and fly fishing in Japan, this log cabin-style Western hotel was designed by Canadian architect J. Sturges using an abundance of premium Canadian wood. All rooms offer stunning lake views, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
Indulge in the hotel’s traditional French cuisine and unwind in the separate building’s scenic hot spring. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and revel in the magnificent nature, especially during the autumn foliage season from late September to November, when the diverse landscapes at varying altitudes create an extraordinary kaleidoscope of colors.
Discover the Hidden Depths of Nikko’s Charm
Conveniently located just a 7-min drive from the Nikko IC and in close proximity to Nikko Toshogu Shrine, this hotel is an ideal choice for those using a rental car. Nikko, a bustling town catering to visitors of the shrine, is lined with cultural landscapes that preserve its history. The area boasts some of Japan’s most prominent tourist attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Futarasan Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.
Beyond the temples and shrines, Nikko is blessed with abundant nature, such as Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and the majestic Mount Nantai. Immerse yourself in the changing scenery of the four seasons, particularly the stunning autumn foliage that can be enjoyed from late September to November, and experience the traditional culture of Tochigi’s crafts, such as Nikko carving, Nikko geta, and Kanuma kumiko.
Indulge in Luxurious Comfort and Stunning Autumn Views
Boasting spacious rooms with Simmons beds, terraces overlooking Lake Chuzenji, and delectable cuisine featuring Nikko’s flavors, this hotel is a treasure trove of delights. With rooms accommodating three to four guests, it’s perfect for families. The hot spring, sourced from Oku-Nikko Yumoto Onsen, the fourth most concentrated sulfur spring in Japan, offers a relaxing experience with its free-flowing waters.
Located just a 10-min walk from the stunning Kegon Falls, guests can easily explore one of Nikko’s most famous autumn foliage spots. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary landscapes created by the diverse natural beauty nurtured at varying altitudes, and enjoy the colorful leaves from late September to November.
Escape to a Serene Retreat Amidst Nikko’s Autumn Splendor
Nestled in Tokorono, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, this small, single-building accommodation offers a tranquil getaway from the bustling tourist areas. Unlike a typical hotel, this is a single-unit rental facility. Enveloped in natural materials like wood and plaster, the gentle ambiance creates a feeling of living in Nikko. The one-piece dining table and geometric wooden fittings add to the charm.
As a single-building accommodation, guests enjoy ample amenities, including a washing machine, refrigerator, microwave, tableware, kitchen, and parking. Immerse yourself in the stunning autumn landscapes of Nikko, where the colorful leaves can be appreciated from late September to November, thanks to the diverse natural beauty nurtured by the varying altitudes.
Summary
Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site, transforms into a breathtaking canvas of colors during autumn. With diverse natural beauty nurtured by varying altitudes, Nikko offers visitors extraordinary landscapes painted in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow from late September to November.
To make the most of your autumn experience, plan ahead and book accommodations early, as Nikko fills up quickly during peak foliage season. Secure your reservation now to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay, and don’t miss the opportunity to witness Nikko’s awe-inspiring autumn beauty. 🍂
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