The Ritz-Carlton Nikko sits right by Lake Chuzenji, offering unbeatable views and a peaceful atmosphere. From Tokyo, take the shinkansen to Utsunomiya Station, then transfer to the JR Nikko Line. From Nikko Station, a taxi or a 40-minute local bus ride will get you to the hotel. (Note: There is no dedicated hotel shuttle bus.)
With a stroller: The hotel entrance and surrounding areas are flat and stroller-friendly. Elevators are available at Nikko Station. The bus stop is just a short walk from the hotel entrance, and sidewalks are wide enough for easy strolling.
Nearby conveniences: There are limited shops around, so it’s best to bring essentials with you. That said, the hotel offers extensive in-room dining and amenities that make going out unnecessary for a short stay.
The Vibe: Check-in & First Impressions
As soon as we arrived, we were greeted by staff dressed in elegant kimono, instantly setting a refined yet warm tone. Check-in took place in a serene and spacious lobby lounge , where we enjoyed welcome drinks while taking in views of Lake Chuzenji. Despite its luxury, the hotel felt incredibly family-welcoming.
The Room: A Deep Dive for Families
We stayed in a room with a stunning view of Mt. Nantai . It featured a spacious layout with a double bed and a cozy sofa by the window.
A special kids’ tent (booked as a paid activity) was prepared for our 2-year-old daughter—complete with age-appropriate toys like books and blocks .
The room had:
A large daybed next to the bed , perfect for naps or cuddles.
Plug outlets available at the bedside.
A walk-in closet big enough for suitcases and baby gear .
Ritz Kids amenities included :Coloring books, stickers, a scavenger hunt activity folder , slippers and a toothbrush . Our daughter participated in the Ritz Kids stamp rally and received an instant camera photo as a reward—though the current prize may vary.
Food & Dining: What Our Kids Actually Ate
In-room dining was our go-to, as there weren’t many restaurants nearby. Our daughter enjoyed the kid’s curry, while we ordered a burger and adult curry—both were delicious . The kids’ menu was surprisingly varied and well thought-out.
Breakfast: Instead of a buffet, guests choose between Western or Japanese set meals. We opted for the Japanese-style breakfast, beautifully presented in a bento box-style tray with a variety of small seasonal dishes, rice, and miso soup (Photo 16). Kids received a simpler set with staples like rice and soup, and the portions were generous enough to share.
Here’s what was on the menu during our stay (as of April 2022):
Japanese Breakfast
Green salad from Umihara Farm with French dressing
Original cube toast, croissant, and danish
Tochigi strawberry jam, Hokkaido butter
Nikko eggs, Kinugawa tofu, soboro chicken with egg topping
Grilled salmon with spicy cod roe sauce
Wagyu roast beef from Nasushiobara
Seasonal side dishes such as hijiki salad, local pickles, yuba (tofu skin), and more
Steamed rice, miso soup, and dessert (seasonal fruit)
Choice of: Onsen tamago (hot spring egg) or fermented black soybean natto
Drinks: Tochigi apple juice, fresh orange juice, grapefruit juice, tomato juice, coffee, tea, roasted green tea
Western Breakfast
Green salad from Umihara Farm with French dressing
Original cube toast, croissant, and danish
Tochigi strawberry jam, Hokkaido butter
Roast beef from Nasushiobara
Smoked salmon, beet and egg salad, seasonal vegetable terrine
Shrimp fritter with spring vegetables and honey mustard sauce
Bacon, sausage, cheese, and olives
Tochigi milk yogurt and seasonal fruit
Egg dish of your choice: scrambled, sunny-side up, poached, eggs Benedict, croque madame, or omelet (ham, cheese, tomato, mushroom, onion, bell pepper)
Drinks: Tochigi apple juice, fresh orange juice, grapefruit juice, tomato juice, coffee, tea, roasted green tea
Welcome sweets: A seasonal strawberry and a charming monkey-shaped monaka were a delightful touch.
The Onsen: Beauty and Serenity
The onsen facility was one of the highlights of our stay (Photo 15). The path from the changing area to the bath itself is crafted from warm wood and exudes calm. The open-air bath was modest in size but stunning, filled with cloudy white water that felt soothing and pure.
Small children can join the onsen if they are no longer wearing diapers.
Fun for All: Activities On-site & Nearby
Tip 1: Book the Ritz Kids tent—it’s a fantastic way to keep toddlers entertained in-room.Tip 2: Join the Ritz Kids stamp rally. It gives your child a mission and ends with a fun surprise.Tip 3: Take advantage of the Ritz Kids amenities—they’re not just cute but actually useful for keeping toddlers happily occupied.
Is the hotel too luxurious for toddlers?
Not at all! Staff were welcoming and amenities were tailored for young children.
Worth it for one night?
Absolutely—perfect for a short yet rejuvenating family escape.
Is it stroller-friendly?
Yes, both in the hotel and the surrounding area.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a special occasion stay with your little one, The Ritz-Carlton Nikko strikes a rare balance between luxury and family-friendliness. Highly recommended for families with toddlers.
