Get ready for a full-day journey through the natural beauty and cultural treasures of Nikko, where stunning landscapes, historic sites, and iconic carvings await at every turn.
Your day begins with a visit to the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Toshogu Shrine, a grand memorial to Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate (entrance ticket not included). You’ll discover three must-see carvings that bring the shrine to life: the Three Wise Monkeys, the Sleeping Cat (Nemuri Neko) and the Imaginary Elephants.
Next, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along Irohazaka Road, a winding mountain route famous for its panoramic views. As you ascend, you’ll arrive at Lake Chuzenji, Japan’s highest-altitude natural lake. No matter the season, you’re in for a visual treat—rhododendrons bloom in spring, lush greenery surrounds the lake in summer, autumn paints the landscape in fiery colours, and winter wraps everything in peaceful snow.
Your journey wraps up with a visit to the breathtaking Kegon Falls, where you’ll witness nature’s power and beauty. This dramatic waterfall was formed when the Daiya River was diverted by ancient lava flows.