Hello. I'm Yurina from the student group mof. Last summer, my friend and I went to Nikko in Tochigi
prefecture. It is easy to go there by train from Tokyo, and we could enjoy a lot even if it is a day trip.
This time, I'd like to introduce some of the spots in Nikko that you should definitely keep in mind!
Let's go! From Shinjuku to Nikko
We took the limited express "Nikko-go" from Shinjuku to Tobu Nikko station without changing trains!
It took us about 2 hours to arrive at Nikko, enjoying the changing scenery from the train window.
Nikko Station
If you buy a free pass for the bus at the station, you can use the bus as an essential means of
transport at a discount. However, there are many different types of free passes available, so it's best
to check beforehand! This time we wanted to go to Kegon Falls, so we used "Chuzenji Onsen Free
Pass" (adult 2,000 yen, valid for two days).
Gorgeous! Nikko Toshogu, a World Heritage Site
The first place we visited was Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which is one of the most famous World Heritage
sites in Nikko. It is a must-see when you come to Nikko. The gorgeous carvings and decorations just
overwhelmed me!
Nikko Toshogu Shrine
I learned for the first time this day that the altitude of the area around Nikko Toshogu Shrine and the
height of Sky Tree (634m) are almost the same height!
Sculptures of Nikko Toshogu Shrine
"The sculptures of Nikko Toshogu, such as the "Three Monkeys" and the "Sleeping Cat", are also
worth seeing.
"Three monkeys" and "Sleeping cat
Thoughtful woman in the train looking through the window
Nikko Futarasan Shrine, a popular power spot
Nikko Futarasan Shrine (Futarasan-san) is a popular power spot. It is famous as a spot for praying for
good relationships between people, and is especially recommended for women.
Nikko Futarasan Shrine
Face to face with Naruki Dragon (Yakushido)
The Narukiryu (Crying Dragon) in Yakushido is a place not to be missed. When you play the clappers
directly under the dragon's face painted on the ceiling, you can hear the dragon's cry as if it were
rolling a bell in resonance. A monk will actually demonstrate this for you!
The ringing dragon bell
I couldn't resist buying a ringing dragon bell on the way home. We were not allowed to take photos
inside, so you should definitely visit in person!
Yuba tomato ramen for lunch
We had a unique lunch in Nikko, which is famous for its yuba. It is said that this menu has been
featured on TV. We devoured it all in one sitting!
Yuba tomato ramen
Kegon waterfall with overwhelming power
Kegon waterfall is one of the most famous waterfalls in Nikko. At the viewing platform where you can
see the waterfall up close, the spray from the waterfall is amazing. The air was so clear that I felt like
my body and mind were purified.
Kegon Waterfall
Lake Chuzenji
A short walk from Kegon Falls is Lake Chuzenji.
Lake Chuzenji
Pudding made with ingredients from Nikko
We had a luxurious combination of soft ice cream and pudding. It's a race against time to get the
photo because the soft ice cream melts too quickly.
Soft ice cream and pudding made with ingredients produced in Nikko
The station building of JR Nikko station which we used on the way back was also cute and retro.
The station building of JR Nikko station
What do you think? When we visited there, we could know not only the World Heritage but also
various charms of Nikko! Why don't you visit Nikko for a change?
