Introduction

When it comes to the most spectacular autumn scenery in Japan, the most striking is the vibrant autumn foliage. Nikko City in Tochigi Prefecture is known for its beautiful autumn foliage, which is woven together with historic buildings registered as World Heritage Sites and magnificent natural scenery. In this article, we will introduce popular spots to enjoy Nikko's autumn foliage to the fullest, as well as exquisite gourmet dishes that will allow you to savor the flavors of autumn. Embark on a journey to enjoy the charms of Japanese history, nature, and cuisine all at once.

1. Breathtaking beauty: Nikko's autumn foliage spots

In Nikko, the best time to see the autumn leaves varies depending on the altitude, so you can enjoy the autumn leaves over a long period, from late September to late November.

Irohazaka in Nikko

Irohazaka is an essential part of any discussion of Nikko's autumn foliage. With an elevation difference of approximately 440 meters and 48 sharp curves, this road feels like passing through a tunnel of autumn leaves. From the Akechidaira Observatory along the way, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the autumn leaves spreading out below, and on particularly clear days, you can also enjoy beautiful views of Mount Nantai and Lake Chuzenji.

Lake Chuzenji

Lake Chuzenji, formed by the eruption of Mount Nantai, is a vast lake with a circumference of approximately 25km. The autumn leaves along the lakeside, reflected in the water's surface, look like a painting. You can enjoy the beauty from various angles, such as taking a sightseeing boat to view the autumn leaves from the lake or strolling along the lakeside. The autumn leaves at Hachōdejima are particularly not to be missed.

Kegon Falls

Kegon Falls, which flows down from Lake Chuzenji, is one of Japan's three most famous waterfalls. The contrast between the powerful water cascading from a height of 97 meters and the surrounding autumn foliage is truly breathtaking. If you take the elevator down to the base of the falls, you can feel the spray on your skin and enjoy an even more dynamic view.

Nikko Toshogu Shrine area

The area around Nikko Toshogu Shrine, registered as a World Heritage Site as part of the "Shrines and Temples of Nikko," is also a famous spot for viewing autumn leaves. The combination of historic buildings and autumn leaves gives you a sense of traditional Japanese beauty. In particular, the five-story pagoda on the grounds and the autumn leaves around the Yomeimon Gate are captivating to many visitors.

2. Enjoy the Autumn Leaves Even More: Nikko Autumn Cuisine

After viewing the autumn leaves, end your trip with some delicious Nikko cuisine. Nikko has many dishes made with local ingredients.

Yuba dishes

Authentic kaiseki yuba cuisine Kappo Yotaro Yuba kaiseki cuisine https://tenposstar.com/ja/merchant/651511de1f556

Nikko is blessed with high-quality water, making yuba a local specialty. Yuba is a thin film that forms when soy milk is boiled down, and is made using a method unique to Nikko that is slightly different from yuba. You can enjoy the delicate taste and texture of yuba in a variety of ways, such as eating it as is like sashimi, simmering it, or frying it. There are also many restaurants that specialize in yuba dishes, and we recommend trying the yuba gozen lunch set for lunch.

Nikko's specialty "Soba"

Soba noodles made with Nikko's pure water are characterized by their rich fragrance and smooth texture. Warm soba noodles topped with mountain vegetables, mushrooms, and yuba (tofu skin) will warm you up. At soba restaurants in Nikko, you can also enjoy unique dishes made with buckwheat flour, such as sobagaki (sobakaki) and soba zenzai (soba sweets).

chinese dumpling

Tochigi Prefecture is known for its gyoza (dumplings). Utsunomiya City is famous for its gyoza, but you can also enjoy delicious gyoza in Nikko. Characterized by juicy meat filling and crispy skin, it is a soul food loved by the locals. It's also a great idea to try some piping hot gyoza during your trip.

3. Recommended Autumn Foliage & Gourmet Travel Plan

A day around Nikko

1. Morning: Climb Irohazaka and enjoy the spectacular views from the Akechidaira Observatory.

2. Lunch: Enjoy yuba cuisine while overlooking the lake at a restaurant on the shores of Lake Chuzenji.

3. Afternoon: Enjoy the spectacular views of Kegon Falls, then explore the area around Nikko Toshogu Shrine.

4. Dinner: Return to Nikko city and enjoy some delicious soba noodles and gyoza.

*This is only a plan recommended by the editorial department. Please check the actual traffic conditions yourself.

4. Tips for learning more about Nikko

Create memories of your trip with souvenirs

Nikko has many items that make perfect souvenirs, such as Nikko carvings and traditional crafts. Nikko castella cakes and sake made with Nikko water are sure to be a hit. Seasonal changes Nikko's autumn foliage highlights change depending on the season. Late September to early October is the best time to see Lake Chuzenji and Irohazaka, which are at high altitude, while late October to early November brings the colors to the area around Toshogu Shrine in the city. Checking information beforehand will help you enjoy the autumn leaves more efficiently.

summary

Nikko is filled with beautiful autumn scenery and heartwarming cuisine in Japan. The spectacular scenery, interwoven with World Heritage sites and nature, is sure to leave you with an unforgettable impression. Why not experience a special autumn trip in Nikko, where history, culture, and cuisine coexist?