I have not seen any dogs in the Park, but do not know for sure. Come to think of it, I do not recall seeing any dogs in Japan (during the 12-day travel). In Tokyo it is so crowded that any dog walking on a leash would be trampled. I have seen cat cafes and owl cafes but not dog cafes there.

It is winter now. You would expect snow in Nikko by early Jan 2019 and the temperature ranges from -5C to 5C there. Japan is always nice for travelers and it depends on what you expect. No flowers nor autumn leaves by now but you would enjoy onsen baths instead.

It’s winter now.

I‘m not aware that there is a free bus pass. You can buy different passes depending on the area you’d like to visit and the length of your stay in Nikkō.

Don’t worry friend! In Japan the English is a second language and communication isn’t problem! Every city in Japan is very safe and the people is a very friendly! I was in Nikko without tour and no problem! The city is wonderful and have the bus tickets for buy! It’s easy! Have a good trip!

We took the tourist bus from the top parking area of the Nikko Park over to the lake and the waterfall. There are probably hikes around the lake. We took the bus back, also and walked to our ryokan. We do recommend that you arrive at Nikko National Park around 8 AM because the tour buses show up around 11 AM. By that time, we had explored in peace without lines but the crowds became thick at 11 AM.

Hi I strongly recommend to be as early as possible in Nikko as it is always extremely crowded, especially the Tosho gu temple. There are tourist offices, as well as bus stops at both JR and Tobu Rail stations. Here my personal notes of Nikko Many wonderful temples! Tosho Gu Visit the Tosho-gu either early morning or before closing as extremely crowded. Taiyuinbyo Iemitsu Personnaly I prefered this site to the Tosho Gu ! Climbing up the stairs to reach the top gives it a very special atmosphere. Much less crowded that the Tosho Gu Kanman Path We also walked the Kanman Path (red path 5 km on the Nikkō tourist map) Very picturesque in a nice neibourhood of ancient temple workers. Do not hesitate to enter the cemetery, it is worth seeing. Than cross over the bridge and continue along the river with all those little Buddhas covered with red caps. A nice walk! From Iriguchi take the bus back to the temple district.

it’s about 2hours by tobu limited express from Asakusa!