1. What are some must-see live performances in Nikko?
1. Nikko Kirifuri Highland Fireworks Festival – held annually in September, this fireworks festival features a stunning display of traditional Japanese fireworks against the backdrop of Nikko’s mountain ranges.
2. Nikko Toshogu Shrine Procession – occurring twice a year in May and October, this event is a grand procession with over 1000 people wearing traditional costumes, honoring the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
3. Nikko Edo Wonderland – visitors can experience theatrical performances including ninja shows, samurai battles, and traditional Japanese dance at this Edo period theme park.
4. Yashio-Matsuri Festival – held every year in early August, this festival features a parade of boats decorated with lanterns floating down the Kinugawa River accompanied by music and dancing.
5. Nikko Nemu No Sato Weekend Live – held on weekends during summer at Lake Chuzenji’s Nemu No Sato Resort, this music festival features various genres including jazz, classical music, and traditional Japanese instruments.
6. Nikko Nature Concert – taking place in July at the Kirifuri Highlands outdoor stage, visitors can enjoy live performances by renowned musicians against the beautiful backdrop of nature.
7. Aizu Bandai Geyser Theater – located near Lake Chuzenji, this theater puts on an impressive show where hot water is shot up to 30 meters high in synchronization with music and lights.
8. Takinoo Grand Music Festival – taking place at Takinoo Shrine in late August every year, this festival showcases various musical performances from local bands and artists.
9. Showa no Mori Forest Theater – set in a beautiful forest setting, this outdoor theater hosts various concerts throughout the year showcasing different genres such as rock and classical music.
10.Nikko Sumo Wrestling Tournament – held in November at Futarasan Shrine’s Shinto ritual hall, visitors can witness traditional sumo wrestling matches and performances by sumo wrestlers from around Japan.
2. Are there any local festivals or events that visitors should check out in Nikko?
Nikko is home to several festivals and events throughout the year. Some popular ones include:– Nikko Toshogu Shrine Grand Festival: This annual festival takes place in May and celebrates the birthday of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The festival features traditional ceremonies, parades, and cultural performances.
– Yayoi Festival: Held at Nikko Futarasan Shrine in April, this festival celebrates the changing of seasons and features Shinto rituals and offerings.
– Nikko Edo Wonderland Autumn Festival: This event takes place in October at the Edo Wonderland theme park and features traditional Japanese activities such as archery, tea ceremony, and various stage performances.
– Tobu Nikko Summer Festival: Held for two weeks in July, this festival showcases traditional dance performances, food stalls, and fireworks displays.
3. Is there any unique local cuisine that visitors should try in Nikko?
Yes, there are several unique local dishes that visitors should try while in Nikko. These include:
– Yuba: A tofu-based dish made from soy milk skins. It is often served as a topping for rice or used as an ingredient in soups or hot pots.
– Yumochi: A type of mochi (sticky rice cake) made with sweet potato and red bean paste filling.
– Edamame: Boiled young soybeans served as a snack or appetizer.
– Sake: Nikko is known for its high-quality sake production. Visitors can try different varieties at local breweries or restaurants.
4. Are there any recommended hiking trails or outdoor activities in Nikko?
Nikko National Park offers numerous hiking trails ranging from short walks to multi-day treks. Some popular options include:
– Mount Nantai Hike: This moderate hike takes about 4 hours round trip and offers stunning views of Lake Chuzenji and the surrounding mountains.
– Ryuzu Waterfall Trail: A scenic 4.5-kilometer trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall.
– Mount Takayama Hike: This challenging hike takes about 8 hours round trip and offers breathtaking views of Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and Mount Nantai.
Other outdoor activities in Nikko include visiting the Senjogahara Marshland for bird watching, canoeing on Lake Chuzenji, and exploring the many hot springs in the area.
3. Which clubs or bars have the best atmosphere in Nikko?
Some popular clubs and bars with a great atmosphere in Nikko include:
1. Akoya Bar & Grill – located near the Tobu Nikko Station, this bar has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with a great selection of cocktails and food.
2. Sunset Lounge – situated on the rooftop of Hotel Nikko Kanaya, this bar offers stunning views of Lake Chuzenji and has a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere.
3. Bar Nomado – known for its friendly staff and lively atmosphere, this bar is perfect for grabbing a drink after exploring the temples and shrines in Nikko.
4. Mugen Sushi Bar – if you’re looking for a more upscale atmosphere, head to Mugen Sushi Bar for delicious sushi and sake in a modern and chic setting.
5. Tobu World Square Club Lounge – located inside Tobu World Square theme park, this club lounge offers live music, drinks, and snacks with a fun international vibe.
6. The Classic House Cafe & Bar – housed in an old traditional Japanese building, this bar has a charming vibe with outdoor seating surrounded by beautiful gardens.
7. Nikko Base Cafe & Bar – popular with both locals and tourists, this cafe/bar offers a cozy atmosphere with board games, live music events, and an outdoor terrace overlooking the river.
4. What is the nightlife like in Nikko?
The nightlife in Nikko is relatively quiet and peaceful, with a few bars and restaurants offering drinks and live music. The town is known for its traditional atmosphere, so the nightlife tends to reflect that with many pubs and izakayas (traditional Japanese pubs) serving local sake and snacks. There are also some karaoke bars and a few clubs, but they may have limited business hours compared to bigger cities like Tokyo. Overall, the nightlife in Nikko is more low-key and relaxing, perfect for winding down after a busy day of sightseeing.
5. Are there any popular night markets or street food vendors in Nikko?
Yes, there are several popular night markets and street food vendors in Nikko. Some of the most well-known ones include:1. Nikko Night Market: This market is held every Friday night and features local vendors selling traditional Japanese crafts, souvenirs, and street food.
2. Takino Yama Farmers Market: This market is located near Lake Chuzenji and sells a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local produce.
3. Akechi-dori Street Food Vendors: Located near Nikko Toshogu Shrine, this street is lined with various food stalls selling delicious snacks such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers).
4. Futarasan Jinja Nakamise-dori Street Food: This street is lined with food stalls selling traditional Japanese snacks like dango (sweet rice dumplings) and manju (steamed buns filled with sweet bean paste).
5. Shinkyo Bridge Night Market: Held every Saturday evening from spring to autumn, this market features a variety of food vendors offering dishes ranging from savory okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake) to sweet taiyaki (fish-shaped pastry filled with bean paste).
6. Irohazaka Winding Road Food Stands: Along the famous Irohazaka Winding Road leading up to Lake Chuzenji, there are several food stands offering fresh fruit smoothies, grilled meats, and other tasty snacks.
6. Can you recommend any unique dining experiences in Nikko?
1. Forest Café Myojin: This cafe is located in the middle of a tranquil forest and offers a unique dining experience surrounded by nature.
2. Tachibanaan: This restaurant serves traditional Japanese cuisine in an old merchant house that dates back to the 17th century.
3. Hoshino Resort KAI Nikko: This luxury resort offers a multi-course kaiseki dinner, using local ingredients and served in a traditional Japanese room with a mountain view.
4. Kawaji Onsen Oedo: Enjoy a dip in a natural hot spring while savoring grilled meat dishes at this restaurant located in the mountains.
5. Yakushido: This Buddhist temple offers shojin ryori (vegetarian Buddhist cuisine) meals made with local and organic ingredients, served in the temple’s serene gardens.
6. Oku-Nikko Oashi Kyokusui Restaurant Mahoroba: Dine while sitting on suspended chairs above a river at this unique restaurant that specializes in grilled river fish dishes.
7. What are some popular spots for karaoke in Nikko?
Some popular spots for karaoke in Nikko include:
1. Karaoke no Tetsujin: This multi-level karaoke complex offers private rooms, food and drink options, and a wide selection of songs to choose from.
2. Big Echo Nikkoeki-mae: Located near the train station, this karaoke chain offers spacious rooms and a variety of packages for different group sizes.
3. Donkey Kong Karaoke: This lively karaoke spot has a retro gaming theme and often hosts events and parties.
4. Himatsuri No Yu: This hot spring resort also has karaoke rooms available for rental, making it a unique spot to relax and sing with friends.
5. Cisco Time: This stylish bar and lounge has a separate room for karaoke and is known for its extensive drink menu.
6. La Canta: Another popular karaoke chain in Japan, La Canta in Nikko offers multilingual song options along with food and drinks in their private rooms.
7. Akebono Shouten: Located in the historic district of Nikko, this cozy bar has a wide selection of songs to choose from and also offers an all-you-can-drink plan.
8. How late do most of the entertainment venues stay open in Nikko?
It varies by venue, but most entertainment venues in Nikko close around midnight. Some bars and clubs may stay open later, typically until 2 or 3 am. Weekends and holidays may also have extended opening hours.
9. Where can one find traditional Japanese tea houses or cultural shows in Nikko?
1. Nikko Toshogu Shrine – This famous shrine features a traditional tea house called Omotesenke, where visitors can experience a traditional tea ceremony.
2. Futarasan Shrine – This shrine also has a tea house called Ubuyagasaki, which offers tea ceremonies and traditional sweets.
3. Shinkyo Bridge – Located near the entrance of the Nikko National Park, this bridge has a small traditional tea house where visitors can enjoy tea and snacks while taking in the scenic views.
4. Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park – This former imperial villa has a beautiful Japanese garden and a teahouse where visitors can learn about the history of green tea cultivation in Japan.
5. Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura – This theme park showcases various aspects of traditional Edo-period culture, including samurai shows and performances at their theater.
6. Tobu World Square – A miniature version of famous world landmarks, including Japanese buildings such as temples and castles, can be found here along with cultural shows and demonstrations.
7. Nikko Natural Science Museum – In addition to its natural science exhibits, this museum also offers daily cultural shows featuring traditional music and dance performances.
8. Suginamiki-oji Street (Nikko Cedar Avenue) – One of the most iconic sights in Nikko, this sacred avenue is lined with 13-meter tall cedar trees leading to Toshogu Shrine. Visitors can stop at one of the nearby tea houses for a break while admiring the atmosphere.
9. Kuon-ji Temple (Rinno-ji Temple) – This temple complex has various tea houses scattered throughout its grounds, offering small exhibitions on Japanese artistic traditions or hosting special events such as calligraphy workshops or Ikebana flower arrangement classes.
10. Are there any rooftop bars or lounges with a view of the city in Nikko?
There are a few rooftop bars and lounges in Nikko, but they may not offer a view of the city due to the mountainous terrain. However, there are some places with elevated patios or terraces that may offer partial views. Some options to check out include:
– Kiraku Rooftop Lounge at Nikko Station Hotel Classic: This rooftop lounge offers an outdoor patio area with views of the surrounding mountains.
– House Garden Roof Terrace at Nikko Hoshinoyado: This traditional ryokan features a roof terrace with seating and panoramic views of the mountains.
– Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel Garden Restaurant: While not technically on a rooftop, this restaurant has a spacious outdoor dining area with views of Lake Chuzenji and the surrounding mountains.
11. Which area of Nikko is known for its nightlife scene?
The area of Nikko known for its nightlife scene is Kinugawa Onsen.
12. Can you suggest any family-friendly entertainment options in Nikko for those traveling with children?
1. Visit Nikko Edomura (Edo Wonderland): This theme park allows visitors of all ages to experience life in the Edo period, with various attractions that showcase traditional buildings, performances, and activities.
2. Explore Tobu World Square: This miniature theme park features over 100 famous landmarks from around the world in 1/25th scale. Children will enjoy learning about different cultures and exploring the mini replicas.
3. Take a walk around Lake Chuzenji: The peaceful lake offers multiple activities for families, such as boat rides, cycling, or feeding carp at the edge of the water.
4. Go on a Kegon Falls Nature Adventure: This guided tour takes you and your family through beautiful hiking trails to witness Japan’s famous Kegon Falls up close.
5. Visit Nikko National Park’s Wildlife Center: Children will love seeing various animals such as deer, monkeys, bears, and wild boars up close.
6. Check out the Ninja Trick House: This interactive attraction allows families to learn about ninja history and try their hand at ninja skills such as throwing shurikens and walking on walls.
7. Relax in Yumoto Onsen: A visit to this hot spring resort town is an excellent way for families to unwind after a day of sightseeing. There are also family-friendly hot spring options available.
8. Attend a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony: Introduce your children to Japanese culture by attending a traditional tea ceremony where they can learn about tea etiquette and try making matcha themselves.
9. Walk among giant cedars at Nikko Cedar Avenue: Take a peaceful stroll down this avenue lined with towering cedar trees that are several hundred years old.
10. Visit Kinugawa Onsen Amusement Park: Located near Nikko, this amusement park offers various rides suitable for children of all ages along with scenic views of Kinugawa River.
11. Take a ride on the Steam Locomotive: This retro train runs between Shimo-Imaichi and Kinugawa Onsen and offers a unique experience for families looking to travel through the stunning countryside.
12. Make a stop at Nikko Strawberry Park: Children will love picking fresh strawberries at this farm and can also try their hand at making strawberry jam or ice cream.
13. Is there a popular brewery or sake tasting experience available in Nikko?
Yes, there are several popular breweries and sake tasting experiences in Nikko. Some of the most highly recommended options include the Oku-Nikko Beer Brewery, which offers tours and tastings of their locally brewed beer; Ashio Sake Brewing Museum, where visitors can learn about the history and production process of sake; and Nikko Kawamata Brewery, known for their award-winning sake and sake tasting events. It is also worth checking out local restaurants and bars in Nikko that offer a variety of sake options to try. 14. Where can one find live music performances, such as jazz or rock, in Nikko?
There are several places in Nikko where you can find live music performances:
1. Nikko Coffee Roastery & Cafe – This cafe often hosts live jazz performances on weekends.
2. Music Bar 307 – Located near Nikko Station, this bar offers a variety of live music performances including jazz, rock, and pop.
3. Sendou Jazz & Blues Club – This club is known for its intimate atmosphere and features live jazz and blues performances every weekend.
4. Wild Side Cafe & Garage – A popular spot for local musicians, this cafe features live rock performances every weekend.
5. The Pub House Belgium – This pub hosts regular live music events featuring local bands playing a range of genres from rock to folk.
6. Kinugawa Onsen Shishin Theater – This theater hosts regular concerts and shows featuring traditional Japanese music as well as contemporary jazz performances.
7. Nikko Astraea Hotel – This hotel has a rooftop bar that offers live jazz performances during the summer months.
8. Tobu World Square Theme Park – In addition to its miniature replicas of world-famous landmarks, this theme park also features daily outdoor performances by local musicians playing various genres of music.
9. Yomeiden, Villa de Cottage – This cozy guesthouse often hosts live music events featuring local and international artists playing acoustic sets.
10. Restaurants and bars such as Blarney Stone Pub, Capitol Cafe & Diner, and Tasty Kitchen also offer occasional live music performances in Nikko.
15. Are there any walking tours or guided pub crawls available to explore the nightlife in Nikko?
Yes, there are several walking tours and pub crawls available in Nikko to explore the nightlife. Here are a few options:1. Nikko Bar Hopping Night Tour: This tour takes visitors to some of the most popular bars in Nikko, with a local guide leading the way. The tour includes 3-4 different bars and a visit to a traditional Japanese izakaya for dinner.
2. Nighttime Walking Tour in Nikko: This walking tour takes visitors on a night-time stroll through the streets of Nikko, exploring the local sights and culture after dark. The tour covers some of the must-see spots like Shinkyo Bridge, Futarasan Shrine, and Kanmangafuchi Gorge.
3. Nikko Night Illumination Bus Tour: This guided bus tour takes visitors on a journey around Nikko’s key landmarks and attractions at night, including Toshogu Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and Tamozawa Imperial Villa.
4. Self-Guided Pub Crawl: Visitors can also opt for a self-guided pub crawl experience by checking out some of the recommended bars and pubs in Nikko such as Bar Domelato or Akyorei.
It is always advisable to check availability and book these tours in advance. Alternatively, visitors can also ask their hotel or hostel for recommendations and join any planned activities or events they might have organized for guests to showcase the local nightlife scene.
16. How is the LGBT+ community represented and welcomed at entertainment venues and events in Nikko?
The LGBT+ community is represented and welcomed at entertainment venues and events in Nikko in a varied and inclusive manner. There are a number of bars, clubs, restaurants, and other establishments that cater to the LGBT+ community in Nikko, hosting events such as drag shows, pride parties, and themed nights.
In addition, several festivals and events in Nikko actively celebrate the diversity of the LGBT+ community. For example, the “Nikko Rainbow Festa” is an annual event held in October that promotes LGBT+ rights and visibility through various activities such as live music performances, workshops, and panel discussions.
Many entertainment venues and events in Nikko also have anti-discrimination policies and explicitly state their commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Overall, while there may not be as many specifically LGBT+-oriented venues or events in Nikko compared to larger cities like Tokyo or Osaka, the community is still well-represented and welcomed with open arms at most entertainment venues throughout the city.
17. What are some recommended activities for a fun night out with friends in Nikko?
1. Visit the Nikko National Park and take a hike to see the beautiful waterfalls and nature.
2. Attend a traditional performance at the Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park.
3. Explore the Shinkyo Bridge, considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful bridges, which is surrounded by stunning scenery.
4. Take a boat ride on Lake Chuzenji and enjoy the views of Mount Nantai.
5. Visit the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to ornate architecture and beautiful gardens.
6. Have dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) and try some delicious local food and drinks.
7. Take a dip in one of Nikko’s many hot springs for a relaxing evening with friends.
8. Rent bikes and explore the city on two wheels.
9. Attend a sake brewery tour and tasting to learn about Japan’s famous rice wine.
10. Visit an onsen theme park for a unique experience of hot springs combined with amusement park rides.
11. Play traditional Japanese games like karuta or go at a local game center.
12. Catch a kabuki or bunraku performance at one of Nikko’s theaters.
13. Spend an evening bowling, singing karaoke, or playing billiards at an entertainment center in town.
14. Grab some snacks from local shops and have a picnic in one of Nikko’s parks or gardens.
15. Take part in a tea ceremony experience to learn about Japanese tea culture and try authentic matcha green tea.
16. Take a stroll down Irohazaka Winding Road, known for its 48 hairpin turns, for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
17. End the night with stargazing from one of Nikko’s observatories for incredible views of the night sky in this less light-polluted area.
18. Is it common to see street performers or buskers on the streets of Nikko at night?
No, it is not common to see street performers or buskers on the streets of Nikko at night. The town tends to quiet down in the evening and there are typically no organized events or performances taking place on the streets. However, during peak tourist seasons, there may be occasional street performers or small festivals happening during the day.
19. Are there any cultural shows, such as traditional dance performances, held regularly in places like temples or shrines around Nikko?
Yes, there are cultural shows and performances held regularly in places like temples and shrines around Nikko. For example, at the Toshogu Shrine, there is a daily traditional drum performance called “Kagura Dance” that showcases ancient music and dance rituals. At the Futarasan Shrine, there are seasonal festivals that include traditional dances and other performances. Additionally, some temples offer workshops or demonstrations on traditional crafts such as calligraphy or tea ceremony. It is recommended to check with specific temples or shrines for their event schedules.
20 .What are some popular activities for tourists looking for a laid-back and relaxed evening experience while visiting Nikko?
1. Stroll through the Historic Town Area: Take a leisurely walk through Nikko’s charming streets and admire the traditional architecture, quaint shops, and local restaurants.
2. Relax at an Onsen (Hot Spring): Soak in a natural hot spring and unwind after a day of exploring Nikko’s attractions.
3. Sunset Lake Chuzenji Cruise: Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Chuzenji and watch the sunset over the mountains.
4. Visit Kirifuri Kogen Observation Deck: Take in the breathtaking views of Nikko’s landscape from this observation deck located in the mountains.
5. Kanmangafuchi Abyss: Take a peaceful walk along this serene gorge filled with beautiful nature and its iconic Jizo statues.
6. Sake Tasting: Sample locally-brewed sake at one of Nikko’s many sake breweries and sake bars.
7. Temple Illuminations at Night: Some of Nikko’s temples offer special evening illuminations, creating a tranquil and magical atmosphere.
8. Zen Meditation Experience: Join a meditation session at one of the Zen temples in Nikko for a calm and introspective evening experience.
9. Enjoy Traditional Japanese Cuisine: Try some delicious local dishes such as yuba (tofu skin) or soba (buckwheat noodles) at one of Nikko’s traditional restaurants.
10. Karaoke: Unleash your inner performer by singing your favorite songs at one of Nikko’s karaoke bars for a fun and laid-back evening activity.