6 DAYS AUTUMN INDULGENCE IN NIKKO & KARUIZAWA

Car Transfer: Tokyo to Karuizawa

Upon arrival in Tokyo you will be transferred approximately 3-4h to your accommodation around the Karuizawa area. 

Karuizawa in Autumn: Art, Culture and Nature

Experience the dazzling autumn foliage at the renowned Kumoba Pond. You’ll also visit the charming Kumanokotai Shrine, uniquely situated across two prefectures and recognized as one of Japan’s three largest Kumano shrines.

For a touch of modern art, explore the Hiroshi Senju Museum, dedicated to the acclaimed contemporary Japanese painter. The museum’s garden features a variety of trees and plants, enhancing your visit. If you prefer, we can substitute this visit with a trip to the Museum of Contemporary Art, Karuizawa, depending on your interests.

Transfer: Karuizawa to Nikko via Romantic Road

You will be met and transferred to your accommodation in Nikko, a journey of approximately 3 hours along the famed Romantic Road. Due to limited public transportation, this gem remains relatively off the beaten path for foreign travellers.

Included in your itinerary is a visit to the Onioshidashi Volcanic Park, beautifully carved from the volcanic lava sediment of Mount Asama’s eruption. If you wish, we can also stop at Asama Great Falls, Kita-Karuizawa’s largest waterfall, where a massive cascade of water plunges from a height of approximately 10 meters.

Along the way, you’ll pass through numerous quaint towns, onsen resorts, and scenic national treasures. We can tailor your journey to include these highlights based on your interests. 

Nikko’s Cultural Highlights

Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural gems of Nikko. A highlight is the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the area’s most lavishly decorated shrine, featuring over a dozen buildings nestled in a beautiful forest setting.

Another significant site is Rinnoji Temple, founded by Shodo Shonin, who introduced Buddhism to Nikko in the 8th century. Near the temple, you’ll find a small Japanese-style garden, a popular autumn spot adorned with numerous maple trees around a central pond.

If you wish to explore more of Nikko, let us know, and we can include a visit to the Nikko Futarasan Shrine, which preserves the ancient Shinto practice of mountain worship, and the nearby Mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Alternatively, we can arrange a drive through the Cedar Avenue of Nikko for a peaceful respite from the temple visits.

Nikko: Nature’s Portrait

Start your day with a morning temple walk at the historic Chuzenji Temple, home to a 6-meter statue of Kannon, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, carved over 1,200 years ago.

Transfer: Nikko to Tokyo

You would be met and transferred approximately 3 hours to the airport in Tokyo for your onward journey.