Nikko Futarasan Shrine Main Parking Lot Complete Guide
Nikko Futarasan Shrine is a historic shrine that forms part of the World Heritage Site “Shrines and Temples of Nikko.” The main parking lot is known as the most convenient parking lot when visiting Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple in conjunction with the shrine.
Basic Parking Information
Fees and Opening Hours
- Parking Fee: 500 yen per day for regular cars
- Capacity: Approximately 50 cars
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (April – October), 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (November – March)
- Payment Method: Cash only
The parking lot is under the management of the shrine and is for shrine visitors only. The fees are reasonable and cheaper compared to other paid parking lots in the Nikko area.
Access and Location
Location: 2307 Yamauchi, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture
Access by Car:
- Approximately 2km (10 minutes) from the Nikko IC on the Nikko-Utsunomiya Expressway
- Proceed towards Shinkyo Bridge from National Route 120, and it is located at the top of the uphill slope
- Search for “Nikko Futarasan Shrine” in your car navigation system
Access by Public Transportation:
- Approximately 7 minutes by Tobu Bus “World Heritage Tour” from JR Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station
- Get off at the “Nishi-Sando” bus stop and walk for 3 minutes
The parking lot is located closest to the main shrine building and is within walking distance of Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple.
Crowds and Tips for Visiting
Busy Seasons and Times
Particularly Busy Seasons:
- Golden Week (early May)
- Autumn Foliage Season (late October to early November)
- New Year’s Holidays (December 31st to January 3rd)
- Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from 10:00 to 14:00
Relatively Less Busy Times:
- Early mornings on weekdays (8:00 to 9:00)
- After 15:00 on weekdays
- Weekdays during winter (mid-January to March)
Recommended Parking Strategies
- Early Morning Visit: It is relatively uncrowded right after the gates open at 8:00, allowing for a quiet visit to the temple grounds.
- Weekday Visit: If possible, visiting on a weekday is recommended. The crowd level is less than half of what it is on weekends.
- Check for alternative parking: If the main parking lot is full, consider using the Nikko Toshogu Shrine parking lot (600 yen) or the municipal parking lot.
Points to note when visiting Nikko Futarasan Shrine
Main blessings
Nikko Futarasan Shrine is known for its blessings of matchmaking, family safety, and good fortune.
Deities enshrined:
- Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto – Main deity, god of matchmaking
- Tagorihime-no-Mikoto – Consort deity
- Ajisukitakahikone-no-Mikoto – Child deity
Must-see spots for worship
1. Main Hall and Worship Hall
This is the central building of the shrine and is designated as an Important Cultural Property. The beautiful vermilion-lacquered shrine building exudes a calm atmosphere, in contrast to Toshogu Shrine.
2. Shinen (Sacred Garden)
A garden accessible for a 300 yen entrance fee. It features the “Married Couple Cedar,” a sacred tree associated with matchmaking, and a “ring toss” game for those seeking good luck. A must-see spot, especially for those wishing for a successful relationship.
3. Futara Reisen (Futara Sacred Spring)
A sacred spring located within the Shinen (Sacred Garden). Known as the “Water of Wisdom” and the “Water of Youth,” it is drinkable.
4. Matchmaking Bamboo
A bamboo tree where visitors tie strips of paper on which they have written their wishes. A popular spot for those wishing for success in love.
Efficient Pilgrimage Route
Estimated Time: Approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour
- Park in the main shrine parking lot
- Pray at the main hall (10 minutes)
- Visit the sacred garden (20 minutes)
- Receive amulets and Goshuin (stamp) at the shrine office (10 minutes)
- If time permits, visit Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple (30 minutes to 1 hour each)
Pilgrimage Manners:
- Bow before passing through the torii gate
- Purify yourself at the water basin
- Pray using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual
- Photography is permitted, but please be considerate of other worshippers
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Places within Walking Distance
Nikko Toshogu Shrine (5-minute walk):
A magnificent shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. Famous for its “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” monkeys and sleeping cat.
Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple (7-minute walk): A Tendai sect temple. The Sanbutsudo Hall houses three Buddha statues, each 7.5 meters tall.
Shinkyo Bridge (10-minute walk): A beautiful vermilion-painted bridge representative of Nikko. One of Japan’s three most unusual bridges, and a popular photo spot.
Dining and Rest Spots
- Nikko Kanaya Hotel: A historic classic hotel established during the Meiji era. Lunch is also available.
- Meiji no Yakata: A Western-style restaurant. Omelets and cheesecake are popular.
- Sakaeya: A famous shop for fried yuba manju (tofu skin buns). Perfect for eating on the go.
Notes and Frequently Asked Questions
Parking Precautions
- Winter Road Icy Conditions: Snow and ice are possible from December to March. Studless tires are recommended.
- Large Vehicles: There is a dedicated parking area for large buses. Prior Confirmation Required
- Re-entry: Re-entry is possible on the same day by presenting your parking ticket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a parking reservation necessary?
A: Reservations are not required. It’s first-come, first-served.
Q: Are there electric vehicle charging facilities?
A: There are not at the main parking lot. Please use roadside stations in Nikko City.
Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Pets are generally prohibited on the shrine grounds. Small dogs in carrier bags may be allowed in some cases, but prior confirmation is recommended.
Summary
The Nikko Futarasan Shrine main parking lot boasts an ideal location for visiting the World Heritage site and reasonable fees. To avoid crowds, early morning visits on weekdays are recommended. Enjoy the history and nature of Nikko while receiving blessings for matchmaking.
