From ancient shrines to frozen waterfalls: 11 top spots to visit in Nikko, Japan
A spiritual Unesco World Heritage Site, a museum dedicated to royalty, splendid hotels and natural wonders such as frozen waterfalls make this an alluring destination
Nikko in Japan’s Tochigi prefecture is perhaps best known as the home of the AD766 Unesco-listed Rinno-ji temple and Futarasan shrine.
Destined for cultural resplendence, the site was chosen as the final resting place for Japan’s last definitive warlord, Tokugawa leyasu, in 1617.
As the troubled last pages of the country’s final shogunate unfurled, Nikko received a new lease of life as the preferred summer retreat of royalty and foreign dignitaries.
Sumptuous villas and hotels still stand today receiving guests much as they did in the past decades. These establishments now offer rare glimpses into the unique dynamism of the old and new influences that shaped modern Japan.
Besides offering brilliant and fascinating cultural and historical facets, Nikko is also the gateway to some of Japan’s most alluring natural hideaways: Okunikko (Inner Nikko) and Kinugawa Onsen.
The natural attractions of Okunikko are chiefly found around Lake Chuzenji. Discovered more than 1,200 years ago, this highland region is renowned for its natural splendours, which include gorgeous foliage in autumn and frozen waterfalls in winter.
Kinugawa Onsen is famous for its clear and mild thermal waters and scenic setting.
It takes just under two hours to reach Nikko from the Tokyo Skytree station via the Tobu Skytree line.
A trip here is akin to travelling through time into one of Japan’s best-known cultural hotspots. Check out some of the best attractions of Nikko – from luxury hotels to ancient history – that are unique to this remarkable city and its stunning surrounds.