JJapan Trips

Nikko or an extra day exploring Tokyo?

My husband and I have 4 full days in Tokyo and are considering cutting a day trip to Nikko we originally had planned to give us more time to explore Tokyo in particular Shibuya and Shinjuku which we only have a few hours dedicated too so far. Or is Nikko worth missing out on a bit of the city? We are doing a tea farm tour in the mountains and have a day tour to Takayama booked so will get a few nature days. I’m so torn please help me weigh up if it is worth it.

5 comments

  1. As much as I love Nikko (four visits and counting), a day trip there is quite time consuming, and rushed if you want to see everything. If you’ve already got some days out of the city, I’d skip it and get maximum juice from Tokyo.

  2. Agree that Nikko is really worth visiting, but with only 4 days you’d be spending half of one of those just going to and from.

  3. nikko needs at least over night stay, day trip would mean u spent half day traveling, see one or two things and return

  4. I personally think Shibuya and Shinjuku are great if you intend on doing really touristy things and don’t mind absolutely MASSIVE crowds. I’d rather spend that day in Nikko. It’s up to your personal preference. I like Tokyo enough, but I prefer less concrete and skyscrapers.

  5. I did a Nikko visit in 1 day from Tokyo and I didn’t think it was rushed. I would recommend a rental car since Nikko’s sightseeing spots are quite far apart. The scenery there is beautiful and the shrine grounds are interesting to see.

    That said, as others have mentioned, only 3 days is quite short for Tokyo so it might be good to give Nikko a dedicated day or two another time.

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