Day trip from Tokyo to Yunishigawa Kamakura Itinerary

To plan your trip, review Lonely Planet Nikko Guide.

You can find the latest updates on Shrines and Temples of Nikko.

You will arrive at Yunishigawa-Onsen Station after roughly three hours. The train fare costs about 4,000 yen for a one-way ticket. Check the how to get to Yunishigawa guide for schedule details. Buying tickets in advance is highly recommended for weekend travel.

From the station, you must take a local bus to the village. The bus ride takes another 30 minutes through snowy forests. Keep your camera ready for the stunning river views along the way. Bus fares usually cost around 900 yen for adults.

Exploring the Historic Yunishigawa Village

Arrive in the historic village of Yunishigawa by early afternoon. This area is famous for its legendary Heike clan history. Walk through the snowy streets to feel the traditional atmosphere. Many shops sell local snacks like grilled mochi and hot tea.

Visit the Heike no Sato folk museum to learn about local life. The entrance fee is approximately 510 yen for adults. You can see traditional thatched-roof houses covered in deep white snow. This site serves as a main venue for the Yunishigawa Kamakura Festival 2026 Guide activities.

Grab a warm lunch at one of the small local restaurants. Try the "Banba-mochi" or hearty miso soup to stay warm. Most lunch sets cost between 1,000 and 1,500 yen. The friendly locals make the experience even more special.

Festival Highlights and Evening Illumination

The main highlight begins as the sun starts to set. Head toward the Sawaguchi riverbed to see the mini-kamakura snow huts. Hundreds of small lanterns glow inside these tiny snow domes. This creates a magical atmosphere that feels like a fairy tale.

The lights usually turn on around 5:30 PM during the winter months. Check the specific illumination times before you start your walk. The riverbed area is free to enter for all visitors. It is the most popular spot for photography during the festival.

You can also find larger kamakura where people enjoy outdoor BBQ meals. These require advanced booking and cost about 1,500 yen per person. Walking among the glowing huts is a peaceful and romantic experience. The 2026 festival promises to be the most vibrant event yet.

Practical Tips for Your Winter Visit

Winter temperatures in Nikko often drop well below freezing at night. You must plan what to wear to stay comfortable and safe. Thermal layers and waterproof boots are essential for walking in deep snow. Don't forget to bring disposable heat packs called "kairo" for your hands.

The last bus back to the train station leaves early. Most visitors aim for the 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM bus departures. Missing this bus means you might need to stay overnight in a ryokan. Always check the Nikko Official Guide for the latest transit updates.

Using a digital IC card like Suica makes paying for buses easier. However, carrying some cash is wise for small stalls and entry fees. The total budget for this day trip is around 12,000 yen. This includes all transport, food, and small entry fees for the day.