Nikko - Discover why “Don’t say ‘magnificent’ until you’ve seen Nikko” by visiting the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and nearby shrines and temples. The most famous shrine among the “Shrines and Temples of Nikko,” a leading world heritage site in Japan, is where Ieyasu Tokugawa, the great Shogun who initiated the prosperous Edo Period, is enshrined. Most of the shrine complex seen today was rebuilt in the 17th century. The shrine features 55 buildings, including 8 national treasures and 34 listed buildings. Highlights include lavish carvings lacquered and richly colored, showcasing craftsmanship from across the country. Don’t miss the symbol of peace, the “Sleeping Cat,” and the “Three Monkeys” with their “see no evil, hear no evil, and speak no evil” poses!

Shinkyo Bridge - The Shinkyo Bridge is the first structure visitors encounter before entering the area of Nikko’s shrines.

Lake Chuzenji Skyline - Lake Chuzenji is the largest lake in Tochigi, surrounded by 25 kilometers of stunning nature. The area was a popular summer resort for foreigners from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. The villas of the French and Belgian embassies can still be found here. Enjoy the seasonal beauty by the lake, with walking trails around the water’s edge and an excursion boat available on the lake. The views are spectacular, especially during cherry blossom or azalea season, or when the autumn leaves are turning. The “Koyo-meguri” tour, which showcases autumn leaves reflecting on the lake, is highly recommended.

Nikko Tosho-gu - Discover the intricate beauty of Toshogu Shrine’s carvings, immerse yourself in the tranquility of Lake Chuzenji, and be awe-struck by the majestic Kegon Falls. Explore the sacred grounds of Futarasan Shrine and step back in time at Tamozawa Imperial Villa. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking serenity, Nikko offers a journey of enchanting experiences that will leave you with cherished memories. Embrace the harmonious fusion of past and present in this charming destination.

Kegon Falls - Kegon Waterfall is the most famous of Nikko’s 48 waterfalls. Water from Lake Chuzenji falls 97 meters straight down to the rocks below, creating a dynamic and artistic natural spectacle. A special lift takes visitors to the basin where the force and roar of the water can be experienced up close! Impressive in any season, the waterfall is particularly spectacular when surrounded by fresh green leaves in May, house martins in June, or the “12 falls” - small streams of the frozen waterfall clad in blue ice - during January and February.

Kirifuri Waterfall - Kirifuri Waterfall (霧降の滝, Kirifuri no taki) is an impressive, 75-meter high, two-tiered waterfall located below the Kirifuri Highlands, a few kilometers northeast of the temples and shrines of Nikko. The sight of the elegant falls cascading down the mountain provides a nice contrast to the surrounding foliage, which is lush and green in spring and summer and displays fiery shades of red, orange, and gold in autumn. The name Kirifuri means “falling mist” after the fine mist created when the water crashes against the rocks at the bottom of the lower falls. The view may occasionally be obscured when mist or fog covers the valley. It used to be possible to hike down to the base of the waterfalls, but the trail down the mountain partially collapsed several years ago and has been closed ever since.