We will introduce "10 things to do in Tochigi (Nikko)".

Nikko Toshogu Shrine

It is said that the shrine was built in 1617 by Tokugawa Ieyasu's son, the second shogun, Tokugawa Hidetada, in accordance with his will after he died the previous year, and the main shrine was built in 1636 by the third shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu. There are 16 monkeys carved into the "Shinkyusha", representing the lessons that each generation should learn in life. The famous three monkeys, "hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil", were carved as lessons for childhood, and represent the ideal of growing up to be respectable adults who know only good things.

The gold leaf, which would today cost the equivalent of 40 billion yen, was completed in the short period of one year and five months, and the temple grounds now contain 55 buildings, including eight national treasures and 34 important cultural properties.

Kegon Falls

The Nikko area is dotted with 48 waterfalls, with Kegon Falls being the most famous. This spectacular waterfall sees the water from Lake Chuzenji plummeting down a 97-meter cliff, allowing you to see the dynamic waterfall and splendid beauty of its shape. The waterfall basin, which can be reached by elevator, is very impressive when viewed up close. In the autumn, the harmony of the colors of the waterfall and the autumn leaves is a spectacular sight.

Chuzenji

This temple was founded by Shodo Shonin, who founded Nikko in 784. Its name comes from the fact that when Shodo Shonin prayed on the shores of Lake Chuzenji, the Kannon Bodhisattva appeared on the lake and he hand-carved the image into a standing Katsura tree.

At Godaido, there is a spot where you can see Lake Chuzenji and Mt. Nantai, and it is a spectacular view. You can also enjoy a sightseeing boat ride around Lake Chuzenji. It shows you different views in each season.

Nikko Futarasan Shrine

It is said that the shrine built by Shodo Shonin when he founded Nikko in 784 was the beginning of Nikko Mountain worship. It was repaired and remodeled by the second shogun, Tokugawa Hidetada, in 1615. With a history of over 1200 years, it is the oldest building in Nikko. The "Ka-toro" has countless scratches on it, and when oil is poured on it and the light is turned on at night, it sways back and forth, taking on a mysterious appearance, and it is said that the samurai guarding it slashed at it multiple times. It is called the "Ka-toro" because it is a lantern that looks like a monster.

Monkey Land & Anitown (Nikko Monkey Troops)

This is an entertainment park with the theme of "see, play, interact." There is a show on the main stage with monkeys and entertainers, a monkey mountain where the monkeys live, and an attraction where you can play with the monkeys. You will be impressed by the monkeys' tricks and how they play sports such as soccer. In addition to the monkeys, you can also interact with animals such as penguins and capybaras.

Yutaki

It was formed about 6,000 years ago when the Yukawa River was dammed by the eruption of Mitake. It is a waterfall about 70m high, flowing down a steep slope created by the lava of Mitake. The water from Lake Yunoko cascades down the "Yutaki" waterfall, which is impressive. You can see different scenery in every season, and the contrast between the waterfall and the green leaves in summer and the autumn leaves is spectacular.

Kanmangafuchi

This is a scenic spot created by lava erupting from Mt. Nantai. There is a huge rock on the riverbank, and a stone statue of Acala is placed on top of it. It is said that the name "Kanman" comes from the last line of Acala's mantra. "Narabi Jizo" is a line of about 70 Jizo statues on the south bank. It is said that the number of Jizo statues is different on the way there and back, so it is also known as "Bake Jizo."

Shinkyo Bridge

This bridge spans the Otani River. 1,250 years ago in 766, when Shodo Shonin was opening up Mount Nikko, he found his way blocked by the rapids of the Otani River. At that time, he asked the gods and Buddhas for protection, and according to legend, King Jinsha appeared and released two snakes, from whose backs sprouted mountain reeds that became a bridge. It is said to be one of Japan's three most unusual bridges, alongside Saruhashi Bridge in Yamanashi Prefecture and Kintai Bridge in Yamaguchi Prefecture. The gorgeous vermilion bridge is a spectacular sight.

EDO WONDERLAND Nikko Edomura

This is a facility where you can experience the culture of the Edo period. Streets such as highways, post towns, merchant districts, ninja villages, and samurai residences have been recreated, and you can experience life in Edo through experience events. There is Wakamatsuya, where you can see ninja shows and gorgeous courtesans, seven theaters where you can see plays, and an exhibition hall where you can learn about history and culture. You can also experience being a samurai, so be sure to give it a try.

Nikkozan Rinnoji Temple

Rinno-ji Temple, a Nikko shrine and temple registered as a World Heritage Site, is also designated as a national historic site as "two shrines and one temple" along with Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Nikko Futarasan Shrine. Nikkozan Rinno-ji Temple is made up of the main hall (Sanbutsudo), Daiyuin, Jigen-do, and other halls, as well as 15 branch temples, and is a temple that has shaped the history of Nikko Sannai. The Sanbutsudo Hall houses three principal images of the deity Thousand-Armed Kannon, Amida Nyorai, and Bato Kannon, and their appearance is truly impressive. The Kinkaku-den (Golden Pavilion) of Daiyuin of Rinno-ji Temple is designated as a national treasure and is beautifully covered in gold.

summary

We have introduced "10 things to do in Tochigi (Nikko)". The gorgeous exterior of "Nikko Toshogu Shrine" is popular both in Japan and abroad and is very beautiful, and the naturally formed structures "Kegon Falls", "Yutaki Falls", and "Kanmangafuchi" are each wonderful with their own unique characteristics. At "EDO WONDERLAND Nikko Edomura", you can experience old Japan and feel like you have traveled back in time. Please visit Nikko.