By train
By Tobu
The fastest and most convenient way to access Nikko is on the private T?bu Nikk? Line from Tokyo's Tobu-Asakusa station. From the Tokyo Asakusa station, take exit 4, and the Tobu train station is visible once you reach street level -- it's at the same intersection. The Tobu "World Heritage Pass" is a great value (covers transportation between Tokyo and Nikko, but only on the "Rapid" and "Section Rapid" trains -- the speedier "Spacia" train will cost extra; entrance fees to all the major shrines and temples are included in this package). You can also bring food ( and varied beverages ) to picnic on the train.
T?bu Railway runs all-reserved limited express services, known as tokky? trains, to the area. These trains, which use Tobu's "SPACIA" railroad equipment, have comfortable, reclining seats, with vending machines and KIOSK available on most trains. One service, called Kegon runs directly from Asakusa to Nikko in the morning, and back to Asakusa in the afternoon. There is one daily departure from Asakusa at 7:30 am, and depending on the season, there may be an additional departure at 9:30 am. The other service, Kinu, departs from Asakusa more frequently, but branches off to Kinugawa so you will need to transfer at Shimo-Imaichi station to a local shuttle train for the final 10-minute run to Nikko. This train is timed to meet the Kinu arrival. Both the Kegon run, and the Kinu run with transfer, take about 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Regular direct trains, which depart from Asakusa about each hour, cost �1320 each way. Rapid, or Kaisoku trains, take two hours; the slower Section Rapid, or Kukan-Kaisoku takes 2 1/2 hours. You must board one of the last two cars, since the train divides en route.
In addition, T?bu Railway offers three convenient passes for Nikko and Kinugawa hot spring area, which can be used only by visitors to Japan.
1. All Nikko Pass allows unlimited buses
