Nikko Cedar Avenue
Walk beneath the Guinness World Record's longest tree-lined avenue, a breathtaking natural corridor in Nikko.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Nikko Cedar Avenue
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk beneath the Guinness World Record's longest tree-lined avenue, a breathtaking natural corridor in Nikko.
"The contrast of the light is overwhelming, like a Monet painting. This area is definitely worth a visit."
🎯 Enter from the right spot
Google Maps might not show the best entrance. Look for the avenue from the main road; it's visible!
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the avenue and nearby sites.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Cedar Avenue
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Walk beneath thousands of ancient cedar trees, a Guinness World Record holder for the longest tree-lined avenue.
Shinkyo Bridge
Near the entrance to Nikko Toshogu Shrine
A sacred, vibrantly colored bridge, often considered one of Japan's most beautiful.
Toshogu Shrine
Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
The lavishly decorated mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Kegon Falls
Lake Chuzenji, Nikko National Park
One of Japan's most famous waterfalls, cascading dramatically from a cliff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Nikko Cedar Avenue
Navigating Nikko's Natural Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Enter from the right spot
Google Maps might not show the best entrance. Look for the avenue from the main road; it's visible!
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the avenue and nearby sites.
What can be done in Nikko on a day trip without rushing?
The Best Tokyo Daytrip: Kamakura, Hakone, or Nikko?
📸 Capture the light contrast
The play of light and shadow is stunning, like a Monet painting.
⏳ Allow ample time
A day trip is feasible, but don't rush. Enjoy the history and nature.
Trip Report, Jan 31st - Feb 10 (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nikko)
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Enter from the right spot
Google Maps might not show the best entrance. Look for the avenue from the main road; it's visible!
👟 Comfortable walking shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the avenue and nearby sites.
📸 Capture the light contrast
The play of light and shadow is stunning, like a Monet painting.
⏳ Allow ample time
A day trip is feasible, but don't rush. Enjoy the history and nature.
🚗 Drive with nostalgia
The cedar trees evoke a sense of peace and nostalgia, especially for those who remember slower travel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Nikko Cedar Avenue for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and historical significance, often highlighting its Guinness World Record status. The serene atmosphere and the unique play of light through the ancient cedars are frequently mentioned as highlights, evoking feelings of peace and nostalgia. Some note that navigation to the best entry points can be slightly tricky, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"Love this place. Google doesn't bring you to the right entrance but you need to turn into the inner road as it's visible from the main road."
Boon Kok Lee
"This place is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest tree-lined avenue in the world."
Makoto Saitoh
"The contrast of the light is overwhelming, like a Monet painting. This area is definitely worth a visit."
佐藤直昭
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nikko Cedar Avenue is accessible via public transport. From Tokyo, take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station, then transfer to the JR Nikko Line to Nikko Station. From Nikko Station, you can walk or take a local bus towards the main attractions. Many visitors arrive early to maximize their day trip.
While Google Maps might sometimes direct you to a less ideal entry point, the avenue is quite visible from the main roads leading into Nikko. Look for the impressive line of cedar trees.
Yes, driving is an option, and many find the experience of driving through the cedar-lined road to be quite nostalgic. Parking is available near the main attractions.
Once in Nikko, buses are a convenient way to get between the train station, Cedar Avenue, Toshogu Shrine, and Kegon Falls. Consider purchasing a Nikko Pass for unlimited bus rides.
The avenue itself is a road, but it's located near Nikko Station, which is served by JR trains. You can walk from the station or take a short bus ride to get closer to the start of the avenue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Walking along Nikko Cedar Avenue is free and open to the public. However, entry to specific attractions like Toshogu Shrine or Kegon Falls may require admission fees.
Nikko Cedar Avenue is an outdoor public road and is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding attractions have specific operating hours, so plan your visit accordingly.
No, there are no entrance fees to simply walk or drive along the Nikko Cedar Avenue. It's a public road renowned for its natural beauty.
For popular attractions like Toshogu Shrine, it's advisable to purchase tickets upon arrival to avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
Absolutely! Nikko Cedar Avenue is a key highlight for day-trippers from Tokyo. Aim for an early start to see the avenue and other major sights like Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Falls without feeling rushed.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire avenue is photogenic, but look for spots where the light filters through the dense canopy, creating dramatic contrasts. The entrance and sections with fewer people offer great opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas of Toshogu Shrine, but it may be restricted inside certain buildings. Always check for signage.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. The contrast of light is particularly striking.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and around historical sites like Nikko to protect the environment and cultural heritage. Check local regulations before flying.
Experiment with aperture settings to control depth of field, capturing the grandeur of the trees. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and reduce glare.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main stretch of Nikko Cedar Avenue is about 37 kilometers long, but most visitors experience a significant portion by walking from the entrance towards Toshogu Shrine. This part can take 30-60 minutes depending on your pace and how often you stop.
The avenue leads to the heart of Nikko's UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the magnificent Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple. Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji are also popular nearby destinations.
Yes, children can enjoy walking along the avenue, especially if they are interested in nature. The shade provided by the trees makes it pleasant even on warmer days.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Layers of clothing are recommended as the weather can change, and it can be cooler under the dense tree canopy.
Restrooms are available at the parking areas and near the major attractions like Toshogu Shrine. It's advisable to use them when you see them, as they might be spaced out.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, as the avenue can be quite long. Pack snacks and water, as amenities might be spaced out. The nearby attractions, like the colorful buildings of Toshogu Shrine, can also capture children's attention, making it a well-rounded family outing.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and atmosphere. Consider an early start to enjoy the avenue with fewer people, allowing for personal reflection and excellent photo opportunities. The surrounding shrines and temples also offer plenty to explore independently.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the immense scale of the trees and consider a tripod for low-light conditions. The contrast of the natural green against the vibrant colors of nearby shrines like Toshogu also provides excellent photographic opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Guinness World Record Cedar Avenue
The experience of being enveloped by these towering trees is often described as otherworldly. The dappled sunlight filtering through the dense foliage creates a unique atmosphere, with many visitors noting the striking contrast of light and shadow, reminiscent of a Monet painting. This natural spectacle provides a peaceful transition into the sacred grounds of Nikko's UNESCO World Heritage sites.
For travelers seeking a moment of reflection, the avenue offers a chance to slow down and connect with nature. The scent of cedar and the quiet rustling of leaves create a calming environment, making it a perfect prelude to exploring the ornate shrines and temples that Nikko is famous for. It’s a place that evokes a sense of nostalgia and awe, a true testament to nature's enduring grandeur.
Exploring Nikko's UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Adjacent to Toshogu are the Futarasan Shrine and Rinnoji Temple, each offering its own unique historical and spiritual significance. Futarasan Shrine is dedicated to the deities of the three sacred mountains of Nikko, while Rinnoji Temple is the most important temple in Nikko, featuring a beautiful garden and a five-story pagoda. Together, these sites form a cohesive spiritual landscape that has been revered for centuries.
Beyond the immediate shrine complex, a short bus ride will take you to the stunning Kegon Falls, one of Japan's most celebrated waterfalls, and the picturesque Lake Chuzenji. The natural beauty of Nikko National Park complements the man-made wonders, offering a comprehensive cultural and scenic experience that draws visitors from around the globe.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit