8-Day Trip

8-day Onsen Hopping from Tokyo

Relax in Seven Hot Springs for a Full Toji Experience

Suggested by

Angus Miyaji

Your Journey

STOP.1

Shima

STOP.2

Minakami

STOP.3

Oku-Nikko

STOP.4

Kinugawa

STOP.5

Oku-Kinu / Yunishigawa

STOP.6

Nasu-Shiobara

STOP.7

Nasu

Start

Tokyo

Stop

Shima Onsen

Culture, Food & Drink, Luxury

Start your trip from Utsunomiya and indulge in slow, healthy dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients and delicate seasonings. The special ‘WATER course’ showcases the pristine, natural water of Tochigi’s underground springs.
Each of the ten courses is thoughtfully prepared to highlight the unique flavors imparted by this renowned water. (Limited to 1-8 people per group).
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.

Places to stay

Shima Onsen Kashiwaya Ryokan

Visit Kashiwaya Ryokan and experience Japanese tradition and great hospitality. Not only are the hot spring baths all private & tattoo-friendly, they can also offer delicious vegan & vegetarian options. Enjoy a quiet, relaxing onsen experience just a short trip from Tokyo. Direct buses from Tokyo station.

Things to do

shiobara viva

Join a unique walking tour of the great outdoors led by Ann-chan, a delightful guide who has been to 30 countries. You can combine walking tours with open-air hot springs, agriculture experiences, kimono experiences, calligraphy, and more.

Detail Page

'Shima Onsen'
(learn more about this area)

Shima onsen is a famous hot spring village nestled in the mountains of Nakanojyo city. It has many popular hot spring ryokans and hotels.

Why did I choose here?

Stop

Minakami

Outdoors, Culture

From Utsunomiya to Nikko, travel the Nikko-Kaido Road, an ancient path that was created to connect Edo (Tokyo) and Nikko.

Your first stop is Wakayama Bamboo Farm, Japan’s largest bamboo forest. It is very popular with overseas visitors because of its atmosphere, which is like Arashiyama in Kyoto (but much larger). Visitors can enjoy cultural experiences, like drinking matcha tea in bamboo cups and strolling through its magical forest illuminations in the winter. The bamboo forest has also been featured in films and commercials, making it a unique and memorable stop for travelers.

Places to stay

Yado Kanzan (Ryokan)

Indulge in Japanese hospitality in this cosy luxurious family-run ryokan with private onsen (hot spring) and direct views of beautiful Mount Tanigawa. Experience delicious Kaiseki cuisine, and learn about shakuhachi (Japanese bamboo flute) while listening to live demonstrations.

Things to do

Max Minakami

We have guides with guiding experience in Australia and New Zealand as well as Nepalese guides who can provide outdoor tours in English.

Places to Eat

Detail Page

'Minakami Town'
(learn more about this area)

Minakami Town, just one hour from Tokyo, has stunning landscapes, thrilling activities, crafts, and hot springs for visitors to enjoy!

Why did I choose here?

Stop

Oku-Nikko

Culture, Tradition, Food & Drink

Just as you enter Nikko (via the Nikko Kaido), at the foot of the Nikko mountains and close to UNESCO World Heritage sites, you will find a family-run sake brewery called Watanabesahei Sake Brewery.
This traditional Japanese sake brewery was founded in 1842 and has been preserving the tradition of making sake ever since. The owner speaks very good English and offers two popular afternoon tours with sake tasting in English.

Places to stay

Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel

Visit us for a relaxing stay at our log cabin-themed hotel by Lake Chuzenji. We are known for our French cuisine rich heritage and onsen (hot spring) relaxation.

Things to do

Oku-Nikko Nature Guide JUN

Discover Oku-Nikko’s nature with a local guide. Take a relaxing nature walk or go birdwatching. In winter, there is even a magical snowshoe adventure through the fluffy snow. A fun experience for adults and children.

Nikko Natural Science Museum

Visit Nikko Natural Science Museum, conveniently located near Lake Chuzenji, to discover the fascinating natural wonders and rich history of Oku-Nikko through engaging exhibits.

NAOC

Come cycle with us in the Nikko World Heritage area, and experience history and culture, meet locals, and see rice fields. In winter, we have exciting snow bike rides in Oku-Nikko!

Kitrip Nikko

Join Rieko on one of Kitrip Nikko’s tours through Nikko’s outdoors to have a truly local experience. Unique tours include incense making to harvesting Ice from frozen lakes. See website for more.

Akechidaira Ropeway

Enjoy breathtaking views of Chuzenji Lake, Kegon Falls, and Mount Nantai.

Places to Eat

Chez Hoshino Restaurant

Seeking a taste of Nikko? Discover this charming French restaurant on the shore of Lake Chuzenji. Serving lunch and dinner courses crafted from the region’s freshest local ingredients.

Detail Page

'Oku-Nikko'
(learn more about this area)

Oku-Nikko is a special destination in Nikko National Park north of Tokyo. It is a nature resort with beautiful lakes, forests, waterfalls, and hotels.

Why did I choose here?

Stop

Kinugawa Onsen

Historical, Culture, Unique

As you arrive in Nikko, just above Shinkyo (the red bridge) is Nikko Kanaya Hotel.

Blending Western amenities with Japanese architecture, Nikko Kanaya Hotel has been a popular destination for dignitaries since its opening in 1873. Located only a few minutes walk from the World Heritage sites, it provides an opportunity for guests to experience Japanese history and culture.

Places to stay

Kinugawa Park Hotels

Just minutes from Kinugawa Onsen Station. With scenic river views, delicious food and amazing hot spring baths, our hotel is great for family vacations and getaways.

Things to do

Yagan Railway

Discover the hidden gems of Tochigi with the Yagan Railway. Hike through the stunning Ryuokyo Gorge, indulge in the famous onsen of Kawaji, Yunishigawa, and Shiobara, and be mesmerized by the ever-changing vistas from your train window.

Edo Wonderland

Come time travel to Samurai roaming Edo-period Japan! You can transform into a ninja, samurai, or townsperson for an immersive experience, or enjoy the day as a time traveler visiting Edo.

Places to Eat

Detail Page

'Kinugawa Onsen Kawaji Onsen Area'
(learn more about this area)

Kinugawa Onsen and Kawaji Onsen are popular onsen (hot spring) areas 2hours from Tokyo. Why not relax in a hot spring at one of the many Ryokans with hot springs?

Why did I choose here?

Stop

Oku-Kinu & Yunishigawa

Culture, History, UNESCO

After enjoying a stay in Nikko, it’s time to visit the the Shrines and Temples of Nikko, which were registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

The complex consists of 103 buildings and structures, including surrounding ruins and relics from the Shinto shrines (Nikko Toshogu and Nikko Futarasan-jinja) and the Buddhist temple Rinnoji. The Shogunate honored and cared for the site during the Edo period after Tokugawa Ieyasu was buried in Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Visitors can see the carvings on the buildings, which showcase traditional craftsmanship.

Places to stay

Hatcho-no-yu

Located in Nikko National Park, ‘Haccho no Yu’ is said to be the last hidden hot spring near Tokyo. At an altitude of 1,400 meters, surrounded by wildlife, enjoy our locally sourced meal and open-air baths beside a waterfall. Our winter snow activities are also highly recommended.

Things to do

Yagan Railway

Kitrip Nikko

Join Rieko on one of Kitrip Nikko’s tours through Nikko’s outdoors to have a truly local experience. Unique tours include incense making to harvesting Ice from frozen lakes. See website for more.

Places to Eat

Detail Page

'Yunishigawa & Oku-Kinu'
(learn more about this area)

Yunishigawa and Oku-Kinu are deep in Nikko National Park, where the Hike clan escaped in the 12th century. It has interesting culture & excellent onsen hot springs.

Why did I choose here?

Stop

Shiobara

Culture, Local, Unique, Special

After learning about Nikko’s culture, it’s time to discover Nikko’s untold stories with Kitrip tours.

Kitrip’s tours are produced by Rieko Kito, a Nikko native and experienced tour and event producer. She emphasizes interaction with locals and cultural experiences, believing that “regional experiences are the best way to learn!”. One of her tours includes experiencing hunting in the mountains of Nikko and learning about the cycle of life. Another tour focuses on the hidden area of Okukinu to experience the local culture and delicacy of Japanese Giant Salamander. Kitrip also offers a tour of natural ice creation, which includes a visit to the icehouse, learning about the food culture and water cycle related to ice, and breaking ice with a professional.

Places to stay

Akasawa Onsen Ryokan

Visit our cosy Onsen (hot spring) Inn with friendly cats. From newly refurbished western style rooms to traditional tatami rooms as well as glamping & cabin stays. Vegan and vegetarian meal options are available. Groups are also welcome. Ask about optional tours to Aizu.

Things to do

shiobara viva

Places to Eat

Detail Page

'Nasu-Shiobara City'
(learn more about this area)

Nasu-Shiobara City is two hours north of Tokyo. It's surrounded by mountains and has amazing hot springs (onsen) and outdoor activities!

Why did I choose here?

Stop

Nasu

Culture, Local, History, Outdoors

Lastly, join a cycling tour with NAOC (Nature Adventure Outdoor Club) to finish your trip to Nikko.

NAOC offers several cycling tours highlighting the area’s natural environment, traditional culture, and the life of the people in Nikko. Electric mountain bikes are also available, so there is no need to worry if you aren’t a regular cyclist.

Places to stay

Sansuikaku (Ryokan)

Indulge in luxury and Japanese tradition at a high-end Japanese inn near the Nasu Imperial Villa. Immerse in their healing hot spring with 1,400 years of history. Read more to create cherished memories and experience a heartwarming stay!

Nasu Village

Looking for a holiday home to rent?

Check out Nasu Village in the Nasu forest. There are 20 cottages suitable for couples, friends & families or larger groups. All houses come with free Wi-Fi, a BBQ space and cooking equipment. Read more to find out more.

Things to do

Ride Experience

Experience our incredible cycling tours, tailor-made for everyone, from novices to seasoned cyclists. Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mother Nature as you pedal your way through awe-inspiring landscapes.

Nasu Animal Kingdom

Meet diverse animals, enjoy thrilling shows, and see learn about animal conservation.
Popular areas such as, “Asia Forest”, “Tropical Forest”, “Aqua Stage” and “Sky Stadium” are great for both children and adults.