Warm Fried Yuba Manju Delights

For the most up-to-date details, check Nikko City Official Website before you go.

For the most up-to-date details, check Nikko National Park - Ministry of the Environment before you go.

A single fried yuba bun usually costs about 250 yen in the market. They are perfect for keeping your hands warm while you walk around. Most travelers consider this the best way to eat yuba during winter.

The texture of these buns is both crispy and light for every bite. You will find many stalls selling them along the main street shops. They use fresh local ingredients to make these treats every single day.

Make sure to grab a few napkins before you start your snack walk. The salt on the outside can be a bit messy for some people. This treat is very popular with both locals and tourists in 2026.

Budget Friendly Street Food in Nikko Winter Market

Grilled skewers are another great option for a cheap and filling lunch. You can find miso-glazed dango for around 300 yen per stick. The thick sauce is warm and very savory on the soft rice cakes. Many vendors grill these right in front of you for extra freshness.

Local river fish like yamame are also available on long wooden skewers. These fish are grilled over charcoal until the skin is perfectly crispy. They usually cost between 500 and 700 yen at the winter market stalls. This is a traditional taste of the mountains that fits your budget.

Steamed meat buns are widely available and very cheap for winter travelers. Most shops sell them for less than 400 yen each. They are filled with juicy pork and local vegetables for great flavor. Look for the steam rising from large bamboo baskets along the road.

Traditional Sweet Treats in the Snow

Nothing beats a hot dessert when the temperature drops below freezing. Taiyaki is a fish-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste or custard. You can buy one for about 200 yen at most street stalls. It is one of the most popular Japanese sweets in Nikko for budget travelers.

Roasted sweet potatoes are also a common sight in the winter market area. Vendors sell them by weight or as a single large warm piece. The smell of the roasting potatoes fills the air during the afternoon. They are naturally sweet and very healthy for a quick energy boost.

Chestnuts are roasted in large rotating drums near the shrine entrances. You can buy a small bag for about 500 yen to share. These are perfect for snacking while you wait for the local bus. The warm nuts help keep your pockets toasty in the cold air.

Hot Beverages for Winter Explorers

Staying hydrated and warm is very important during a long day of sightseeing. Amazake is a sweet and fermented rice drink served hot at stalls. It contains no alcohol and costs about 300 yen per cup. This traditional drink provides a nice sugar boost for tired winter hikers.

Local green tea is often served for free or very cheap at shops. Some vendors will offer you a small cup while you browse their goods. This is a great way to taste local flavors without spending money. Always remember to say thank you to the kind shop owners.

Vending machines are also a great source for cheap hot coffee and tea. You can find these machines on almost every corner in Nikkō city. A hot can of coffee usually costs only 130 to 160 yen. They are perfect when you need a quick warm-up between market stalls.