Nikko
Nikko is a popular destination in Japan, located only 125 km north of Tokyo and is popular among tourists and people who enjoy spending time outside of the city [1]. It is well-known for its natural beauty, UNESCO heritage sites, and rich history. Visitors can enjoy Nikko as a day trip or a short 2-day trip, though some visitors opt to spend as much as 4 days and explore the outer Nikko region[6].
Some of the best things to do in Nikko:
Nikko National Park: This is where all the shrines and temples are located, and it is the reason why many visitors end up in Nikko. These are the ones that earned Nikko its claim to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre[2].
Explore the Shrines and Temples: Nikko is a Buddhist-Shinto religious center, and its shrines and temples are scattered among the hilly woodlands. Vibrant green moss clings to perfectly aligned stone lanterns, torii gates welcome visitors into sacred spaces, symbolic decorations adorn ancient shrines, and red-bibbed Jizo statues line a riverside path[3].
Walk Across the Shinkyo Bridge: This is a beautiful vermilion-colored bridge that spans the Daiya River. It is one of the most famous landmarks in Nikko and is said to be one of the three most beautiful bridges in Japan[2].
Visit the Toshogu Shrine: This is the most famous shrine in Nikko and is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate that ruled Japan for over 250 years. The shrine is known for its intricate wood carvings and gold leaf decorations[2].
Ride the Akechidaira Ropeway: This is a cable car that takes visitors up to the Akechidaira Plateau, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Chuzenji[5].
Visit Kegon Waterfall: This is one of the most famous waterfalls in Japan and is located near Lake Chuzenji. Visitors can take an elevator down to the base of the waterfall and enjoy the view from a viewing platform[5].
Nikko is good to visit all year round, although August has the highest chance of rain. The best time to visit Nikko, like any other mountainous region in Japan, is during the Sakura season in spring or during the autumn season.
Visitors can get to Nikko from Tokyo, by train or bus
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