Day 13 Nikko City Waterfalls Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Nikko City, Japan, is located in Tochigi Prefecture 1. Nikko Toshogu Shrine (World Heritage Site) - Shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, featuring magnificent architecture and exquisite carvings. - Famous carvings include the "Three Wise Monkeys" and the "Sleeping Cat." 2. Futarasan Shrine - Dedicated to the gods of Nikko Mountain, ideal for praying for love and family happiness. - Connects Toshogu Shrine with the sacred area of Nikko Mountain. 3. Rinnoji Temple - An important temple of the Tendai sect, known for the famous "Three Buddha Hall." - Its garden is beautiful in all seasons, with especially spectacular autumn maple leaves. 4. Lake Chuzenji - A highland lake formed by the volcanic eruption of Mount Nantai. - The autumn foliage reflected on the lake is breathtaking; you can take a boat cruise or hike around the lake. 5. Kegon Falls - One of Japan’s three famous waterfalls, with a powerful flow. 6. Akechidaira Observation Deck - Take the cable car to overlook Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and other beautiful scenery. - Offers excellent views, a paradise for photography enthusiasts. 7. Ryuzu Falls - Shaped like a dragon’s head, with especially beautiful autumn leaves downstream. 8. Ashio Copper Mine Ruins - Once Japan’s largest copper mine, now you can visit the mine tunnels and museum to learn about mining history. Special Experiences: - Hot Springs: There are many hot springs around Nikko, such as Yumoto Onsen and Kinugawa Onsen, perfect for relaxing. - Taste Local Delicacies: Nikko specialties include "Yuba" (tofu skin dishes), Nikko soba noodles, and Nikko beer. - Scenic Beauty All Year Round: Cherry blossoms in spring, cool summer retreats, autumn foliage, and snowy winter landscapes with hot springs. Transportation to Nikko: From Tokyo 🔹 Tobu Railway (Cheapest) - Route: Asakusa Station → (Tobu Limited Express / Tobu Nikko Line) → Tobu Nikko Station - Time: Limited Express "Revaty" about 1 hour 50 minutes / Local train 2 hours 30 minutes - Cost: Limited Express one-way about 2,800 yen / Local train about 1,400 yen (transfer required) - Recommendation: For in-depth Nikko trips, purchase the Tobu Nikko Pass (NIKKO PASS), which includes round-trip tickets and discounts on some bus routes. 🔹 JR (Fastest & Suitable for JR PASS holders) - Route: Tokyo Station / Ueno Station → (Tohoku Shinkansen) → Utsunomiya Station → (Nikko Line) → JR Nikko Station - Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes - Cost: One-way about 2,700 yen (ordinary car) - Recommendation: If you have a JR PASS, taking the Shinkansen is the fastest and most comfortable way. 🔹 Highway Bus (Cheapest & Direct) - Route: Tokyo Station Yaesu Exit / Ikebukuro Station → Nikko Tobu Station / Lake Chuzenji - Time: 2 hours 30 minutes - Cost: One-way 2,500~3,000 yen - Recommendation: Suitable for budget travelers who dislike transfers.