Travel Budget for Nikko Visit Nikko on a Budget or Travel in Style

Nikko, Tochigi-ken, Japan

Nikko is a historic town known for its Shinto and Buddhist mountain temples, its tranquil hot spring baths, and its peaceful natural setting. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or hiking in nature, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Nikko, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Nikko?

You should plan to spend around $107 (¥15,997) per day on your vacation in Nikko. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $54 (¥8,094) on meals
  • $95 (¥14,163) on hotels

A one week trip to Nikko for two people costs, on average, $1,495 (¥223,958). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $107
    ¥15,997
  • One Week Per person
    $748
    ¥111,979
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $1,495
    ¥223,958
  • One Month Per person
    $3,204
    ¥479,910
  • One Week For a couple
    $1,495
    ¥223,958
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $2,991
    ¥447,916
  • One Month For a couple
    $6,409
    ¥959,820
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Nikko cost?

A one week trip to Nikko usually costs around $748 (¥111,979) for one person and $1,495 (¥223,958) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Nikko on average costs around $1,495 (¥223,958) for one person and $2,991 (¥447,916) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Nikko will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Nikko on average costs around $3,204 (¥479,910) for one person and $6,409 (¥959,820) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Nikko expensive to visit?

Nikko is a popular town that appeals to many visitors, featuring an array of travel styles and spending habits. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.

Nikko can certainly rack up expenses, but there are strategies to minimize costs, including eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $61 (¥9,281) per day, mid-range travelers spend $105 (¥15,997) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $179 (¥27,331) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Nikko.

Within Asia, Nikko is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Atami or Taiyuan.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Nikko Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Nikko?

The average Nikko trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Nikko travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Nikko cost?

Nikko on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$36
(¥5,381)
$47
(¥7,082)
$69
(¥10,295)
Food 2 $24
(¥3,541)
$54
(¥8,094)
$103
(¥15,467)
Entertainment 1 $10
(¥1,438)
$22
(¥3,286)
$42
(¥6,279)
Alcohol 2 $3-10
(¥500-1,500)
$8-23
(¥1,143-3,429)
$15-44
(¥2,184-6,552)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Nikko without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.

Who are Budget Travelers?

You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $61 per day that younger budget travelers manage.

Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.

Thankfully, Nikko is home to plenty of hostels, including earth hostel ~ the riverhouse and K's House Nikko - Kinugawa Onsen Hostel. In these hostels, you can find economical dorm accommodations and a fun social atmosphere, but amenities are typically limited. The town also includes a reliable public transportation system that helps budget travelers avoid overspending on taxis or rideshare services. The culinary scene is also a highlight for everyone in Nikko, but budget travelers tend to eat street food or make their own meals in hostels, potentially missing out on the rich flavors of the local cuisine.

Could You Be an Average Traveler?

If you're a couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. A trip to Nikko wouldn't be complete without visiting its major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $105 per person, per day.

There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Nikko. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. When traveling as a family, you'll want to find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Nikko Akarinoyado Villa Revage is a good kid-friendly option, and Nikko Kanaya Hotel is also terrific. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Nikko here.

Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?

If you're looking for a high-end escape with every amenity and high-quality service, be prepared for daily expenses around $179. Staying in upscale hotels, enjoying meals at award-winning restaurants, indulging in lavish excursions, and utilizing taxis or private drivers in the town will entail a more premium price tag. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Nikko Full-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Nikko

In Nikko, the price of hotels can really surprise you. Some are much more expensive, offering higher luxury and amenities. Peak season rates soar, with off-season averages around $154 and peak summer season rising to an average of $287. Prices typically range from $69 to $565, but hostels remain cheaper, especially in dorms. To save money, book during the low season or take advantage of special promotions and advance deals.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Nikko for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $95 (¥14,163). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $47 (¥7,082) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $47
    ¥7,082
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $95
    ¥14,163

Hotels in Nikko

Looking for a hotel in Nikko? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Nikko

The average hotel room price in Nikko based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $154 in the low season and $287 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Nikko include:

  • Asaya starting at $232
  • Inn the Mist starting at $170
  • Gasthof Ami starting at $88
  • Kojoen starting at $257
  • Nikko Akarinoyado Villa Revage starting at $48
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Nikko

If you want to save on accommodation in Nikko, it has a great public transit system makes it possible to stay further out. However, your transportation costs and time spent commuting will increase.

Nikko is a very family friendly town. If you're traveling with kids, you'll likely want to find an apartment or accommodation with more space.

By traveling in the off-peak times like the low or shoulder season, and steering clear of summer, you'll find cheaper lodging and smaller crowds.

Being a popular tourist destination, Nikko tends to fill up quickly, especially since it's on the smaller side. For a trip during summer, make sure you make your reservations well in advance.

Lots of folks enjoy wandering around Nikko, making it ideal to book a place in the heart of the city. Be aware that this may mean spending a bit more.

The town's captivating old town is a key attraction for visitors. Hotels in this area may be expensive, but they often have a lot of charm and provide easy access to everything.


Recommended Properties


Food Budget in Nikko

Make sure to enjoy the fantastic food in Nikko by taking the time to savor all the local flavors. There are many traditional dishes in the area, but one of the most famous is yuba. Yuba is made from a part of soy milk, and you'll find it in places all over town. You'll also find sushi, tofu, and tea everywhere.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Nikko can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Nikko is $54 (¥8,094) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $54
    ¥8,094

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Nikko is around $53 (¥8094) per person, with previous travelers spending from $23 to $101. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Nikko are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $5 to $16
  • Lunch: $8 to $21
  • Dinner: $16 to $37
  • Coffee: $4
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $8

A specialty that can be found pretty much everywhere in Nikko is called yuba, which is the 'skin' that forms on top when making tofu. Most commonly it is served with soba, buckwheat noodles in a soup broth. Yuba is also the most typical omiyage (edible souvenir to share at home) to take from Nikko. One of the most popular restaurants for tourists to stop at is Hippari Dako. Most crowds stop here to indulge in yakitori, a type of Japanese chicken kabob, and noodles. Gurumans Wagyu is a popular steak restaurant though reservations are required, while Shiawaseya Hakuun is a great place to stop for a sweet treat and endless green tea. You can find anmitsu here, a local dessert made with fruit, bean jam, and molasses. If you're looking for some fresh fruit and vegetables away from the tourist trap prices, there is a farmers market in Nikko just around the corner from the Tobu Nikko Station-just turn right out of the station, right at the traffic lights, and continue down just before the bridge over the river.

Food in Nikko

Food & Dining Tips

When eating out with children, look for places that provide a kids' menu. This can help you save a significant amount since those meals are typically priced lower. Be aware that some restaurants may not list the kids' options, so it's wise to inquire with your waiter beforehand.

Many accommodations feature breakfast in their rates, while some may charge additional fees for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Knowing this information ahead of time helps you decide if you need to spend extra money. A tasty hotel buffet could be worth the expense, or a nearby bakery or cafe might offer a more affordable choice.

Making a picnic is a fantastic way to save money and enjoy the views. Head to a local grocery store or market, pick up fresh goodies, and find a charming park or scenic area to eat your meal.

Use a water bottle instead of splurging on drinks everywhere you go. It's a smart choice for the environment, too.

When planning a tour, don't forget to look into which meals are covered. You may be responsible for some of your own food, which could impact your budget significantly.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Nikko

Tourists can't resist Nikko, especially for its well-known museums and attractions, historical sights, romance, and food.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Nikko typically cost an average of $22 (¥3,286) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $22
    ¥3,286

While Togoshu is the most famous temple site, Rinnoji and Futarasan are also very popular as well as numerous smaller ones. Togoshu is the most extravagant of the lot. The Sacred Stable here houses a white horse as well as a carving of the famous three wise monkeys, who "hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil." Yakushi-do Hall, the Hall of the Medicine Buddha, is known for a dragon painting on the ceiling and a monk who strikes a block whose sharp sound mimics the cry of a dragon. The Yomei-mon Gate is gilded and incredibly ornate with over 400 carvings decorating the structure.

Rinnoji Temple is known for its three large Buddha figures and the peaceful Shoyoen Garden, while Futarasan is the oldest in Nikko and is dedicated to the spirits of Nikko's three holy mountains-Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro. Some of Nikko's other sites include the Shinkyo bridge, Takino-o Shrine just up-mountain with a waterfall, the Kanmangafuchi Abyss with its many protector statues, Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park built for the Emperor Taisho in 1899, and the Nikko Botanical Garden.



Nikko National Park, right next door to the little city provides great opportunities for seeing wildlife and engaging in outdoor activities. A short walk south of the center of town will get you on a strenuous but rewarding hiking trail to the summit of Mount Nakimushi inside the park. Akagane Shinsui Koen, known as Japan's Grand Canyon, is another feat for the adventurous hiker, located in the far southwestern corner of the Nikko territory. Inside the park, special low-pollution hybrid buses run from a depot at Akanuma, near the Yukawa River and the Ryuzu Falls, to the nature preserve at Senjugahama, on the western shores of Lake Chuzenji.

If you prefer your own private nature getaway, Woodsman's Village is a place in the hills of Nikko where you can rent a log cabin to stay in for however long you like. There is also an option to rent a barbecue grill as well.

Sightseeing Tips

Museums and Attractions:
Attractions in NikkoPeople flock to Nikko for its renowned museums and famous landmarks. The town sits on the edge of Nikko National Park, where you'll find shrines and temples. Toshogu Shrine is lavishly designed. Other notable temples in the area are Taiyuin, Rinnoji Temple, and Futarasan Temple.

Historical Sights:
The charming old town is a magnet for tourists. The ancient town is filled with giant cedar trees that line walking paths that take you to the many shrines and temples in the area.

Hiking:
Hiking in NikkoThe hiking paths in the vicinity of Nikko are superb. The town is surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on the many walking paths. The forests are well-preserved and they're filled with large cedar trees, dramatic waterfalls, and beautiful hikes. The area embraces the Japanese practice of "forest bathing" where you "bath" yourself in a beautiful natural environment.

A nice way to explore destinations in Nikko is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • World Heritage Nikko 1-Day Walking Tour from Tokyo or Nikko for $61 details
  • Nikko Private Customizable Half Day Tour for $163 details
  • Nikko Private Customizable Full Day Tour for $260 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Nikko

The nightlife options in Nikko are virtually non-existent. The town is about relaxing in a tranquil setting and soaking up nature, so you won't find much in the form of nightlife.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $15 (¥2,286) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Nikko per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $15
    ¥2,286
Nightlife Tips

While nightlife can be a blast, skipping a few rounds can significantly lower your travel expenses.



Budgeting and Travel Tips for Nikko

  • Expect higher prices and larger crowds during the peak season of summer. To keep your budget in check and avoid the hustle and bustle, try going during the shoulder or low seasons instead.
  • Taking it easy while traveling can help you save some cash, letting you appreciate the area's beauty without the stress. If you rush through your days with nonstop activities, you'll end up spending more. Slowing down often leads to a more enjoyable trip and less money spent.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Traveling with young ones usually means you'll want a private vehicle or taxi. Skipping the public transport hassle can make life simpler, but be ready to spend a bit more cash.
  • There aren't many hostel options in Nikko, so if you're counting on a cheap dorm to save cash, it's time to adjust your expectations. Look for inexpensive hotels or apartment rentals instead.
Traveling in Nikko
Nikko Nikko Rinnoji Temple, Japan (©Yasufumi Nishi/©JNTO)

Nikko is a small Japanese city located in the mountains north of Tokyo. It is well-known for the site of Toshogu, a famed Shinto shrine established in 1617, in memory of Tokugawa Ieyasu who was the founding ruler of the Edo Period. The town is situated just outside of Nikko National Park which offers scenic mountain landscapes, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, wild monkeys, and hiking trails.



Neighborhoods & Around

Edo Wonderland is an attraction that, in a way, acts as its own kind of neighborhood. The locstion features a cultural theme park that celebrates the life and culture of the Edo Period. While the atmosphere of the park showcases historic architecture from rural lodgings to government buildings, it also houses several theatres for live outdoor shows, hosts festivals, and has opportunities for dining and shopping. Activities for both adults and children include Ninja workshops, Japanese traditional archery, shuriken throwing, and costume hire. A visit to Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomuro is one of educational history and immersion into a cultural past.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.