Nikko
At a glance
After a two hour train ride from Tokyo, you will arrive in the middle of Nikko’s cedar grove, finding impressive Shinto and temple buildings that are registered as the World Heritage. The area also has a history of being a resort for foreign diplomats who escaped the heat of Tokyo in the summer time.
Highlights
Toshogu
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This gorgeous shrine located in central Nikko was built in early 1600 for the ruler, Shogun Ieyasu Tokugawa. He instructed to build a small shrine in Nikko and enshrine him as the God for he will be the guardian of peace keeping in Japan. His wishes for peace can be seen in many places of the buildings. Impressive sculptures of spiritual animals and Chinese legends seen in the architecture are said to be symbols of peace. The Yomei-mon (Gate) is one of the 103 buildings registered as the World Heritage. |
Lake Chuzenji
The lake, surrounded by mountains, is located at an altitude of 1269m which is the highest of all natural lakes in Japan. Because of its location, cool weather in the summer, and beautiful autumn leaves, the area has developed as a resort. You can enjoy a walk around the lake, camping, cruising in a sightseeing boat, and fishing. Lake Chuzenji is a popular fishing area, with rainbow trout, sockeye salmon, and here are many restaurants where you can enjoy them.
Kegon Waterfall
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You will come across many waterfalls in Nikko, but the finest one is said to be the Kegon Waterfall. The water from Lake Chuzenji falls 97meters perpendicularly. You can go down to the falling point using an elevator and feel dynamism of it. |
Kirifuri Highland
| Kirifui Highland is located on the north of central Nikko. Kirifuri Highland is a popular area for hiking. There are a number of courses depending on your level and there are also ski lifts for a pleasant ride. From the end of June to beginning to July, you can encounter yellow lilies called “Nikko Kisuge” blooming profusely as if the surfce of the mountain is covered by a yellow carpet. At the end of 3rd lift, you can find a rest area with light meals and drinks. |
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Access
From Tokyo
Asakusa – [1hr 50min., Tobu Nikko-line limited express “Kegon”] – Tobu Nikko
Asakusa – [1hr 50min, Tobu Nikko-line limited express “Kinu”] – Simoimaichi – [8min, Tobu Nikko-line local train] – Tobu Nikko
*a local train will be waiting when limited express ”Kinu” arrives at Simoimachi
Tokyo - [50min., JR Tohoku Shinkansen "yamabiko"] - Utsunomiya - [45min., JR Nikko-line] - JR Nikko
Note:
The seats for “Kegon” and “Kinu” are all reserved seats. We recommend to purchase a ticket beforehand during high-seasons.
There are also private room seats available (for up to 4 persons).
Recommended Accommodations
These are a few hotels that we recommend. We can book other ryokans or international hotels depending on your travel plan or budget. Please contact us by E-mail (commentsmtj@michitravel.com) or phone (81-3-5213-5040). |
