Nikko's onsen hotels cluster around two main areas: the historic center near Toshogu Shrine and the highland retreat of Lake Chuzenji. Asaya, a ryokan with open-air baths overlooking the mountains, and Honke Bankyu, a 17th-century registered historical building with five hot-spring baths, anchor the classic experience. Budget travelers can opt for Turtle Inn Nikko (1 km from the shrine) with a hot spring bath and free parking, while Hotel Shikisai offers a free shuttle from Nikko Station and kaiseki dinners.
Expect to spend anywhere from ¥8,000 per night for a simple guesthouse to ¥30,000+ for a full-board ryokan with private baths and multi-course meals. Most hotels offer indoor/outdoor hot spring baths, tatami rooms, free Wi-Fi, and parking-and many include breakfast and dinner. For ski access, Kyukamura Nikko-Yumoto sits near slopes with ski-to-door convenience; or head to Kinugawa Onsen Hotel for rafting and canyoning in summer. Book ahead for weekends and autumn foliage season, and confirm whether rooms have private bathrooms-some ryokan only share facilities.