- Short description: located 2 hours by train from Tokyo and at the foot of the mountains, Nikko houses a beautiful compendium of temples and shrines surrounded by lakes and waterfalls. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1999 by Unesco. In front of the train station you can find the tourist information office, where they will give you maps and all the information you need. You can not miss:
- The Shinkyo Bridge: completely lacquered in red, crosses the wild Daiya River. Legend has it that the hermit founded by Nikko crossed the river on the back of two snakes, represented by the bridge.
- Toshogu Shrine: it is without a doubt the best of Nikko. It stands out for its originality and its striking colors. It is franked by the spectacular Yomeimon Gate, considered as a National Treasure (¥ 1,300, 2h).
- Lake Chuzenji: spectacular especially in early May with its cherry blossoms and in October when the leaves of the trees take autumnal hues. It has a famous spa.
- The Kegon Waterfall: the most famous in Japan. It is only 5 minutes walk from the Chuzenji Onsen bus stop and there is an elevator that allows access to its top.
- See more information on the official Nikko website.
- How to get:
- If you have JRP: take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen at the Tokyo or Ueno stations. Get off at Utsunomiya station and here change to the JR Nikko Line (2h, included in the JRP, ¥ 5,000 per way if you don't have JRP).
- If you don't have JRP: take the subway (Ginza or Asakusa lines) and get off at the Asakusa station that connects to the Tobu Terminal. Here, you can take the fast train to Nikko (2h, ¥ 1320 per way). Or it is easier to buy a Nikko pass, that includes return trip by train from Asakusa, and most of transportations in Nikko area.
- How to get around: to see the temples it is best to walk (about 40min from the station) or take buses (10min, ¥ 300 per way, ¥ 500 per daily pass). Take the buses in the direction of Lake Chuzenji and get off at the "Shinkyo" or "Nishisando" stops which are about 5-10min from the temples. There is also a tourist bus that covers the most important points. These buses can also take you to the lake (50min, ¥ 1,300 per way).
