Nikko is a stunningly beautiful location in Northern Tochigi Prefecture. While its natural beauty is revered by people all across Japan, it is also the location of an important cultural site, the shrine and mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, one of the three “Great Unifiers” of Japan.
Toshogu Shrine
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Japan, Toshogu Shrine is not only famous for its historical and cultural importance, but for its beauty as well. With so much to see and do just in the shrine complex itself, it should be on anyone’s list of things to see in Japan.
Kegon Falls
Kegon Falls is one of Japan’s “Three Most Beautiful Waterfalls,” and the most famous of Nikko’s 48 waterfalls. Falling 97 meters, it is a magnificent sight, made even better with a quick elevator ride down to the basin where it can be seen in all of its beauty.
Lake Chuzenji
At the top of Kegon Falls is the peaceful Lake Chuzenji. Surrounded by mountains, along with the towering volcano Mt. Nantai, Lake Chuzenji and its surrounding area offer restaurants, boat trips, and paths to many hiking trails.
Yuba
Yuba, the byproduct of creating soy milk, is the specialty food of Nikko. A unique taste, similar to tofu, it is used in a number of dishes around the numerous restaurants in the city.
Shinkyo Bridge
The entrance to Nikko’s shrine’s and temples, it was once off limits to the public. Although it is no longer necessary to cross to get across the river, some choose to cross it by paying the admission fee, and it is believed that crossing it will bring good luck, especially for couples.