Most Direct Tokyo to Nikko Route: Tobu Nikko Line (2 Hours)

The most direct rail route from Tokyo to Nikko is the Tobu Nikko Line:

• Departure: Asakusa Station (Tobu Line) — not Shinjuku. (Some limited expresses from Shinjuku via JR/Tobu through-service, but Asakusa is primary.)
• Arrival: Tobu-Nikko Station (central Nikko).
• Time: ~1 hour 50 minutes – 2 hours (Limited Express Kegon / Kinu); ~2h 15m local.
• Frequency: 1–2 Limited Express per hour; locals every 20–30 min.
• Cost: ¥2,800–¥3,000 (Limited Express + seat fee); ¥1,500–¥1,700 local.

Alternative: JR Tohoku Shinkansen to Utsunomiya (50 min) → JR Nikko Line (45 min) = ~1h 45m + transfer. Faster but pricier (~¥5,500).

Best for tourists: Tobu Limited Express from Asakusa—direct, scenic, serves Nikko's shrines/temples.