Light-up Nikko

ライトアップNIKKO

For one weekend between late October and early November, Nikko’s World Heritage shrines and temples are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere. During the event, free guided tours with English-speaking guides are available.

[2025 Event Details]

Dates:
October 31st (Fri) - November 2nd (Sun), 2025

Time:
17:00 to 21:00
*On the last day, the event will close at 20:00.

The following events will be held daily for three days. Don't miss out—come and enjoy them at the venue!

★English Guided Tour
Let's enjoy walking around the lit up World Heritage site with an English speaking local guide!

Reception:
Information desk near Sanbutsudo Hall (Rinno-ji Temple)

Depature times:
17:00 / 17:30 / 18:00 / 18:30 / 19:00

Tour Duration:
Approx. 40 mins.

The tours offered by Tochigi Volunteer Interpreters & Guides Asociation [TVIGA]

★Night Walk Stamp Rally
Enjoy collecting special stamps in the magical nighttime venue! Take them home as a special memory of your trip to Nikko.

Time:
17:00 - 21:00
*On October 31st, the Stamp Rally will start at 18:00.
*On November 2nd, the Stamp Rally will end at 20:00.

Stamp Location:
-Information desk near Sanbutsudo Hall (Rinno-ji Temple)
-Five-story Pagoda (Nikko Toshogu Shrine)
-Nikko Futarasan-Jinja Shrine
-Nishisando Chaya

★Performance
During the event period, live performances will be held every day in front of Sanbutsudo Hall (Rinno-ji Temple)!
Please note: The performance by Seiya (on November 2nd, from 18:00) will take place in front of the Five-story Pagoda (Nikko Toshogu Shrine).

-Opening act: Japanese Drum Performance by Ichitaro
On October 31st (Friday), from 18:00

-Musical Performance by Kiki Takezawa
On October 31st (Friday), from 20:00

-Japanese Drum Performance by DRUM Hoshu
On November 1st (Saturday), from 18:00

-Musical Performance by Miki MARiE
On November 1st (Saturday), from 18:30

-Dance Performance
On November 1st (Saturday), from 19:15

-Musical Performance by Kamisuzuki Brothers
On November 1st (Satureday), from 20:00

-Japanese Yosakoi Dance Performance by Seiya
On November 2nd (Sunday), from 18:00
*It will take place in front of the Five-story Pagoda (Nikko Toshogu Shrine).

-Musical Performance by CiON
On November 2nd (Sunday), from 20:00

★Night Wedding Ceremony
During the event period, there will be a special opportunity to observe a wedding ceremony for the public held at night.

Time:
18:30 - 19:30

Location:
At Nikko Futarasan-Jinja shrine

★Food Stands
A food court where you can enjoy warm meals and drinks will also be set up near Sanbutsudo Hall!

Time:
17:00 - 21:00
*On November 2nd, the event will end at 20:00.

Areas of Nikko

Central Nikko

The heart of Nikko combines World Heritage shrines and temples, traditional cuisine and crafts, and lush natural settings. Add a trip to this area to a stay in surrounding regions, such as Kinugawa Onsen.

Okunikko

Located in the center of Nikko National Park, Okunikko includes the marshlands of Senjogahara, Mt. Nantai, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls. The area has many hot spring retreats and inns.

Kinugawa-Kawaji Onsen

Set along the Kinugawa River, this area is one of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts. Beyond ryokan and hotels, there are theme parks and many natural attractions. Kinugawa is a good base for further Nikko adventures.

Yunishigawa, Kawamata and Okukinu Onsen

This area is known for its remote location and restorative waters. Enjoy a relaxing escape as you explore undeveloped nature and hot springs.

Imaichi

Historically an inn town, Imaichi is now the gateway to the greater Nikko area. With soba-making lessons, sake breweries and a host of seasonal festivals, Imaichi merits a long stop before heading on to Nikko Toshogu or Kinugawa Onsen.

Ashio

Ashio is most famous for its copper mine, which flourished for over 400 years. Visitors can ride trolleys down the 700-meter long mining tunnel and get a feel for the mine as it once existed.