Day 13 Nikko City Waterfalls Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Nikko City, Japan, is located in Tochigi Prefecture
1. Nikko Toshogu Shrine (World Heritage Site)
- Shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, featuring magnificent architecture and exquisite carvings.
- Famous carvings include the "Three Wise Monkeys" and the "Sleeping Cat."
2. Futarasan Shrine
- Dedicated to the gods of Nikko Mountain, ideal for praying for love and family happiness.
- Connects Toshogu Shrine with the sacred area of Nikko Mountain.
3. Rinnoji Temple
- An important temple of the Tendai sect, known for the famous "Three Buddha Hall."
- Its garden is beautiful in all seasons, with especially spectacular autumn maple leaves.
4. Lake Chuzenji
- A highland lake formed by the volcanic eruption of Mount Nantai.
- The autumn foliage reflected on the lake is breathtaking; you can take a boat cruise or hike around the lake.
5. Kegon Falls
- One of Japan’s three famous waterfalls, with a powerful flow.
6. Akechidaira Observation Deck
- Take the cable car to overlook Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and other beautiful scenery.
- Offers excellent views, a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
7. Ryuzu Falls
- Shaped like a dragon’s head, with especially beautiful autumn leaves downstream.
8. Ashio Copper Mine Ruins
- Once Japan’s largest copper mine, now you can visit the mine tunnels and museum to learn about mining history.
Special Experiences:
- Hot Springs: There are many hot springs around Nikko, such as Yumoto Onsen and Kinugawa Onsen, perfect for relaxing.
- Taste Local Delicacies: Nikko specialties include "Yuba" (tofu skin dishes), Nikko soba noodles, and Nikko beer.
- Scenic Beauty All Year Round: Cherry blossoms in spring, cool summer retreats, autumn foliage, and snowy winter landscapes with hot springs.
Transportation to Nikko:
From Tokyo
🔹 Tobu Railway (Cheapest)
- Route: Asakusa Station → (Tobu Limited Express / Tobu Nikko Line) → Tobu Nikko Station
- Time: Limited Express "Revaty" about 1 hour 50 minutes / Local train 2 hours 30 minutes
- Cost: Limited Express one-way about 2,800 yen / Local train about 1,400 yen (transfer required)
- Recommendation: For in-depth Nikko trips, purchase the Tobu Nikko Pass (NIKKO PASS), which includes round-trip tickets and discounts on some bus routes.
🔹 JR (Fastest & Suitable for JR PASS holders)
- Route: Tokyo Station / Ueno Station → (Tohoku Shinkansen) → Utsunomiya Station → (Nikko Line) → JR Nikko Station
- Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cost: One-way about 2,700 yen (ordinary car)
- Recommendation: If you have a JR PASS, taking the Shinkansen is the fastest and most comfortable way.
🔹 Highway Bus (Cheapest & Direct)
- Route: Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit / Ikebukuro Station → Nikko Tobu Station / Lake Chuzenji
- Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Cost: One-way 2,500~3,000 yen
- Recommendation: Suitable for budget travelers who dislike transfers.