A peaceful retreat near iconic shrines and forested trails
The Ritz-Carlton Nikko offers refined lakeside luxury near Nikko’s UNESCO temples and tranquil hot springs.
Location
The Ritz-Carlton Nikko sits on the serene shores of Lake Chuzenji in Nikko National Park, surrounded by forested mountains and ancient temples. Just a few hours from Tokyo, it offers a peaceful escape into nature with easy access to the area’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ornate Toshogu Shrine.
Rooms
Rooms and suites are spacious and understated, blending modern luxury with traditional Japanese design. Expect natural materials, private balconies with lake or mountain views, and thoughtful touches like washi paper accents and deep soaking tubs, some even come with their own onsen-style baths.
Amenities
There’s a refined Japanese restaurant, a Western dining option, and a lounge for afternoon tea or cocktails. The onsen draws from a local hot spring and includes indoor and open-air baths. A spa, fitness centre, and curated art collection enhance the sense of indulgence and calm. Furthermore, the Ritz Kids Safari experience allows younger travellers to engage with the wildlife of the Nikko region to a deeper level.
Activities
Guests can explore scenic hiking trails, paddle on Lake Chuzenji, or take guided cultural tours of nearby shrines and waterfalls. Seasonal experiences include autumn foliage walks and winter snowshoeing. Additionally, there is the opportunity year-round for zazen meditation with a local monk or to witness a fire ceremony at Chuzenji Temple.

Let me help you create your perfect Japan holiday.
Best places to stay in Japan
Japan Trip Inspiration
When to go to Japan
A month-by-month guide of when to visit Japan
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is ideal for winter sports in Hokkaido and northern regions, with plenty of snow. Tokyo and Kyoto remain chilly but offer clear skies for sightseeing. Explore Sapporo's Snow Festival and soak in an onsen for the ultimate winter experience.
February
February is the best time for skiing and snowboarding in Nagano and Hokkaido. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a major attraction, featuring stunning ice sculptures. Other areas are generally cold and dry and good for sightseeing.
March
March marks the beginning of spring, with cherry blossoms starting to bloom in southern regions like Kyoto and Tokyo. Enjoy hanami picnics under the pink blossoms. It's a great time for hiking and outdoor adventures.
April
April is the peak of cherry blossom season. Witness Tokyo's Ueno Park and Kyoto's Maruyama Park come alive with vibrant sakura. Golden Week, late April to early May, offers festive parades and events.
May
May offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and hiking. Explore Tokyo's International Food Festival and enjoy the comfortable climate for sightseeing in Kyoto.
June
June is the start of the rainy season, known as tsuyu, lasting until mid-July. Although it's wet, explore Kyoto's temples and gardens amid light crowds. Festivals like the Sanno Matsuri in Tokyo showcase Japanese traditions.
July
July continues the rainy season, but the Tanabata Star Festival brightens the skies. Hokkaido hosts the Lavender Festival with fields of purple blooms. Kyoto's Gion Matsuri features grand floats.
August
August offers festivals and fireworks. The Obon Festival celebrates ancestors with lanterns and dances. Enjoy the Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival in Tokyo. Hokkaido's summer flower festivals are perfect for nature enthusiasts.
September
September brings comfortable weather and the iconic Kunchi Festival in Nagasaki. Explore the Sapporo Autumn Festival in Hokkaido. It's a great time for sightseeing with fewer tourists.
October
October features stunning autumn foliage in Kyoto and Nikko. Visit Tokyo's Meiji Shrine during the Meiji Jingu Festival and enjoy Oktoberfest celebrations. Ideal for hiking and outdoor adventures.
November
November showcases autumn foliage, with Kyoto's temples and parks ablaze in red and orange. Yoyogi Park in Tokyo hosts the International Food Festival, and Kyushu's hot spring resorts offer relaxation.
December
December marks the onset of winter, with holiday illuminations in cities and festive lights. Explore Hokkaido's Sapporo Snow Festival with breathtaking ice sculptures. Ski resorts open for winter sports enthusiasts.
Speak to a Japan expert today
and start planning your tailor-made vacation

Nia
Japan Expert
Plan with an expert
Have a look at our original experiences and then contact us with your travel ideas, or call (888) 445-2912
A tailor-made itinerary just for you
Our experts will send you a detailed itinerary specified to your desires. It's our service promise to you.
Value guarantee
Tailor-made doesn't mean expensive! Ask about our price promise and book with financial security.