Nikko is a small city nestled in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture in Japan. Located just 120 kilometers northwest of Tokyo, it is the perfect destination for a weekend trip away. With its rich culture, stunning natural scenery, and incredible shrines and temples, Nikko is an incredibly popular tourist destination.
The city of Nikko is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for outdoor activities. You can explore the Nikko National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is home to a variety of hiking trails, waterfalls, and ancient shrines and temples. You can also explore the nearby Lake Chuzenji, a scenic lake surrounded by wooded mountains.
Nikko also boasts a variety of cultural attractions and historical sites. The most famous of these is the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is dedicated to the first Tokugawa shogun. Other historical sites include the Futarasan Shrine, Rinnoji Temple, and the Taiyuinbyo Shrine.
Nikko is also known for its traditional Japanese cuisine and local specialties. Sample local dishes such as soba noodles, yuba (tofu skin), and Koshu beef. You can also find a variety of traditional Japanese sweets, such as mochi and manju.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Nikko is the perfect destination. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and fascinating history, it’s an ideal destination for travelers of all kinds.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Tobu World Square (東武ワールドスクエア): Located on the outskirts of Nikko, Tobu World Square is a theme park filled with 1:25 scale models of iconic landmarks around the world.
2. Okunikko (奥日光): Okunikko is located in the mountains northeast of Nikko and is known for its breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside as well as its many hiking trails.
3. Shinkyo Bridge (神橋): This iconic red bridge is the entrance to the Nikko Toshogu Shrine and provides a stunning view of the Daiya River and the surrounding mountains.
4. Lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖): Located at the foot of Mount Nantai, Lake Chuzenji is a beautiful lake surrounded by lush forests and hot springs.
5. Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura (江戸ワンダーランド日光江戸村): This theme park is located in the mountains and features Edo period buildings and attractions, as well as a ninja village and samurai show.
1. Toshogu Shrine: This is a stunning shrine complex dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. It is one of the most visited and most iconic sites in Nikko.
2. Rinnoji Temple: This is a Buddhist temple complex that features a five-story pagoda and a wide variety of other buildings. It is an important site in the history of Japanese Buddhism and is a must-see for visitors to Nikko.
3. Shinkyo Bridge: This is a beautiful red-lacquered bridge that crosses the Daiya River, connecting the two sides of Nikko. It is the symbol of the city and a popular spot for taking photos.
4. Kegon Waterfall: One of Japan’s three great waterfalls, the Kegon Waterfall is a stunning 97-meter tall cascade of water. It is located in a scenic area nearby Nikko that is perfect for a day trip.
5. Lake Chuzenji: This is a beautiful lake located at the foot of Mount Nantai. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities here such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and is a great spot for a relaxing day.
1. Koyo-ji Yuba: A light, delicate food made from soymilk that is unique to Nikko.
2. Yuba Soba: Slices of yuba (soy milk skin) served over buckwheat noodles.
3. Yuba-dofu: A Nikko specialty that is a mix of yuba and tofu, served in a hot broth.
4. Nikko Curry: A local favorite, this version of curry is milder and served with a side of pickles.
5. Nikko Soba: Fresh buckwheat noodles served cold with a dipping sauce.