Nikko Sugi Namiki Kaido (Cedar Avenue)
日光杉並木街道
An avenue of cedar trees stretching roughly 37 kilometers along the roads leading to Nikko, planted about 400 years ago and recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest tree-lined avenue in the world. It is doubly designated as a national Special Historic Site and Special Natural Monument.
The world's longest tree-lined avenue
Roughly 12,000 cedar trees line the roads connecting Imaichi to Nikko, Kinugawa Onsen, and Aizu, stretching about 37 kilometers in total, and this avenue is registered in Guinness World Records as the longest tree-lined avenue in the world. Their sheer scale, towering along the roadside, conveys the passage of 400 years since planting.
Planted by a retainer of the Tokugawa clan
The trees are said to have been planted over about 20 years by the retainer Matsudaira Masatsuna as an offering to Tokugawa Ieyasu, in place of a stone lantern he could not otherwise afford. Now grown into a magnificent avenue, they have been dedicated to Toshogu Shrine for some 400 years.
A dual designation as Special Historic Site and Special Natural Monument
In recognition of both its cultural and natural value, the avenue holds the rare dual designation of national Special Historic Site and Special Natural Monument. Sections are also maintained as walking paths, letting visitors experience its scale up close, on foot or by bicycle.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
The contrast between the deep green of the cedars and the season's fresh greenery is beautiful.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
Walking beneath the cedar canopy offers relief from the summer heat.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
The green of the cedars set against the surrounding autumn leaves creates a unique contrast.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
The row of cedars dusted with snow presents a solemn, quiet scene.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 30-60 minutes for a partial walk (varies depending on the section)
- Crowd levels
- Generally uncrowded, as the avenue is spread along the roadway
- Best time to visit
- A leisurely walk along a well-maintained section is recommended
| Address | Imaichi to Nikko/Kinugawa/Aizu roads, Nikko, Tochigi |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open access for viewing (24 hours) |
| Admission | Free |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 5 min walk from Tobu-Nikko Station (Sections of the avenue can be accessed on foot near the station)