Nikko is one of the most impressive cities in Japan. The city is located in the Nikko National Park, known for its sumptuous sanctuaries, monuments and mausoleums. Nikko has always been a spiritual center, being the center of the cult of Shintoism and Buddhism.

Apart from its religious buildings, Nikko National Park offers visitors a very picturesque mountainous landscape, which is made up of hot springs, lakes, waterfalls and trails. This is the reason why many avid hikers head to the park. Nikko can be visited year-round, but the city, along with Lake Chuzenji and the Okunikko area, is especially picturesque during the fall, when the changing color of the leaves creates a spectacular sight.

Nikki’s story centers on Tokugawa leyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. This powerful shogun requested that, after his death, a small shrine be built in his honor. This simple wish started the construction of the Tokugawa Shoguns Mausoleums, which is a large collection of temples, shrines, and buildings.

Unlike the generally simple golden Japanese architectural style; Nikko’s buildings are purposely made to appear ornate, luxurious, and multicolored. They reflect a strong influence of Chinese design and are collectively listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Surrounding these historic buildings is a wonderful forest that is home to more than 13,000 cedar trees. The presence of this forest is impressive in itself and adds to Nikko’s overall mystical appeal.

Nikko is very accessible from Tokyo. You only need to take a 20-hour train ride and you will be following in the footsteps of this historic city. Upon arrival, it will take you around 3 hours to explore the complex thoroughly. Due to its proximity to the capital, it is possible to make it a day trip destination, but you need to plan properly in advance. Arriving early at the sanctuary complex is most practical to maximize your sightseeing and exploration time.

The most prominent structure in the city of Nikko is undoubtedly the Tosho-gu Shrine, which is an exquisite and beautifully decorated shrine, fully deserving of heritage site status. The entrance to the site, which is the Yomei-mon Gate, features one of the most magnificent pieces of wood in Japan. Tosho-gu’s prominence extends to thousands of worshipers from all over Japan who flock to the shrine throughout the year. Tosho-gu welcomes visitors every day from 8:00 am.

Another landmark you’ll want to experience is Nikoosa Rinno-ji Temple. This equally impressive building contains three shrines called gohonzon, where worshipers pray for their families and country. One of the most incredible features of the temple are its wooden pillars, which measure 25 meters and are covered with several layers of lacquer.

Another structure that has been stealing the attention of many tourists is the small wooden carvings on one wall, known to the world as the ‘three wise monkeys’. Other notable sites within the complex that deserve your time and attention include the Futarasan Shrine, known for its large stone lanterns; and Shinkyo Bridge, which is the legendary snake bridge that stands as the official entrance to Nikko.