❶ Departure & Meeting Point The photo shows the Spacia X train departing from Asakusa Station. The ride takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
We’ll be gathering at Shimo-Imaichi Station, so you’re free to choose any route that suits you best. However, we especially recommend taking the Spacia X from Asakusa. You’ll get to soak in the scenery from the train window and enjoy a slightly more luxurious travel experience.
The Spacia X is designed with six cars, each showcasing a unique concept and atmosphere. In addition to standard seats, there are private compartments, cozy sofa seats, and lounge-style areas—so you can pick the style that best suits your mood.
The highlight is Car 6, the Cockpit Suite, an exclusive space adjacent to the driver’s cab. It offers panoramic front-facing views that make you feel almost as if you’re operating the train yourself—an unparalleled, spacious experience.
The photo here shows the GOEN CAFE SPACIA X located in Car 1. It’s a stylish café space where you can sip carefully crafted drinks or enjoy light snacks while watching the landscape roll by.
Please note: all seats on the Spacia X are reserved, and bookings open one month in advance.
the Spacia X limited express train
❷ Arrival at Shimo-Imaichi Station Upon arriving at Shimo-Imaichi, we’ll meet at the ticket gate. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a classic steam locomotive!
❸ Visit to the Historic Kamisawa Residence From there, we’ll take a short walk to the charming old residence of the Kamisawa family, who run the long-established Kamisawa Umetaro Shoten. Built about 150 years ago by skilled craftsmen, this single-story house still retains much of its original appearance. It was designed as a tranquil retirement home, and you can feel that peaceful spirit throughout.
You’ll also be warmly welcomed by the lady of the Kamisawa household.
❹ Pickling Workshop with Local Vegetables Next, we’ll enjoy a hands-on experience making traditional pickles using fresh, seasonal produce from Nikko. While listening to stories about local vegetables from Mr. Kamisawa, we’ll savor freshly steamed rice alongside the pickles we prepare—a delightful way to start the day.
After the workshop, we’ll stroll over to a local market. It’s a great chance to browse through stalls of fresh, local vegetables and enjoy the bounty of the season. In September, you’ll find corn, pumpkins, eggplants, shishito peppers, and other vegetables that herald the arrival of autumn. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Nikko’s famous tamari-zuke pickles.
❺ Free Time in Nikko – Visit Toshogu Shrine We’ll then hop back on the train to Tobu Nikko Station. From here, the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Nikko is known as a cool mountain retreat, and even in early September, temperatures are around a pleasant 23°C—perfect for leisurely exploration.
You might like to take a bus to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Spend some peaceful time wandering among its historic buildings, like the five-storied pagoda and the magnificent Yomeimon Gate.
Wrap-Up & Local Delicacies We’ll finish back at Tobu Nikko Station, where you’ll be free to head home.
If you plan to return via Utsunomiya by Shinkansen, be sure to stop and try some of Utsunomiya’s famous gyoza—an excellent way to cap off your day with a tasty memory.
