The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko: A Luxurious Mountain Escape in Japan's Sacred Land

Located north of Tokyo, Nikko, meaning "Sunlight," holds a sacred place in the hearts of the Japanese. Nikko boasts not only magnificent natural wonders such as the sacred Mount Nantai, Lake Chuzenji, and Kegon Falls (one of Japan's three most famous waterfalls), but also abundant hot spring resources like Kinugawa Onsen and Yumoto Onsen. While Japan has no shortage of outstanding hot spring destinations like Hakone and Hokkaido, Nikko offers a richer cultural experience. [The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko] Considered by the Japanese themselves to be the most beautiful Ritz-Carlton, the hotel is nestled between mountains and Lake Chuzenji. The lobby features floor-to-ceiling windows facing the lake, creating a breathtaking, living landscape painting. The hotel offers 94 guest rooms and suites, starting from 57 square meters. Standard rooms offer three different views: Mount Nantai, river view, and Lake Chuzenji view. The Lake Chuzenji view is highly recommended. If possible, choose a room on the 3rd floor or higher for a more expansive view. While the hotel has natural hot springs, the in-room soaking tubs do not use hot spring water. Guests wishing to enjoy the natural hot springs can visit the hotel's public baths. The Ritz-Carlton features a spacious hot spring annex where the water is directly sourced from Oku-Nikko Yumoto, one of Nikko's three major hot springs. Various options are available, including open-air baths, cold baths, and saunas. [Dining] The all-day dining restaurant, The Japanese Restaurant By The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko, is located next to the lobby. In addition to traditional Japanese cuisine, it also serves breakfast. Alternatively, guests can have breakfast delivered to their rooms. The hotel's Western restaurant, Lakehouse, boasts two-Michelin-starred chef Kanji Kobayashi of Villa Aida as its consulting chef. The restaurant offers stunning views, and in the evening, bonfires are lit near the lake, creating a magical atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy light meals or afternoon tea by the fireplace at The Lobby Lounge. [Hotel Activities] For stays of two days or longer, we recommend visiting the Shrines and Temples of Nikko, one of Japan's 23 World Heritage sites. This includes Toshogu Shrine, Futarasan Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple. From the Ritz-Carlton, it's a 40-minute drive to these attractions, and the entire trip requires at least half a day. Please note that most hotel activities are subject to a fee. Even a simple cycling activity requires a rental fee, though cycling around Lake Chuzenji is a wonderful experience. Fishing enthusiasts can also rent a boat and go fishing on the lake—a truly irresistible experience. Just imagine how beautiful this place must be during the autumn foliage season in October.