3 days in Shiga Prefecture, Karuizawa-machi & Nikko Itinerary

The lake port city of Otsu has a wealth of sites of historical and cultural importance and lies within close proximity to Kyoto.

On the 14th (Sat), take in the spiritual surroundings of Hiyoshi-Taisha Shrine, then take in the spiritual surroundings of Ishiyamadera Temple, and then take in the spiritual surroundings of Mii-dera Temple (Onjo-ji Temple).

To see maps, where to stay, ratings, and other tourist information, read Otsu online journey planner.

Tokyo to Otsu is an approximately 3.5-hour train ride. You can also fly; or drive. In March, daytime highs in Otsu are 16°C, while nighttime lows are 5°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 14th (Sat) to allow time to take a train to Karuizawa-machi.

The only city in the world to have hosted both summer and winter Olympics, the resort town of Karuizawa-machi boasts clean air, impressive mountain scenery, and many outdoor activities and hot springs.

Your day by day itinerary now includes Shiraito Falls. On the 15th (Sun), take in the architecture and atmosphere at Karuizawa Kogen Church, take in the dramatic scenery at Shiraito Falls, identify plant and animal life at Karuizawa Yacho no Mori, then relax and rejuvenate at some of the best spas, and finally stroll around Yukawa Furusato Park.

To see other places to visit, photos, traveler tips, and more tourist information, use the Karuizawa-machi driving holiday planning site.

Traveling by train from Otsu to Karuizawa-machi takes 4 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or fly. Expect a bit cooler weather when traveling from Otsu in March: highs in Karuizawa-machi hover around 11°C, while lows dip to 3°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 15th (Sun) early enough to take a train to Nikko.

A gateway to a sprawling and diverse national park, a center of Shinto spiritualism and place of Buddhist worship, an emblem of the riches and dominance of the Tokugawa shogunate: Nikko means many things to many people.

On the 16th (Mon), steep yourself in history at Kanaya Hotel History House, explore the striking landscape at Kammangafuchi Gorge, identify plant and animal life at Kirifuri Highlands Kisuge Plain, take your sightseeing to a higher altitude at Mt. Nantai, then hike along Odashirogahara, and finally take your sightseeing to a higher altitude at Shirane Mountain.

To find reviews, photos, other places to visit, and more tourist information, you can read our Nikko trip planner.

Getting from Karuizawa-machi to Nikko by train takes about 2.5 hours. Other options: drive. Traveling from Karuizawa-machi in March, Nikko is a bit warmer at night with lows of 10°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 16th (Mon) early enough to drive back home.