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Amazing Nikko

Apr 2, 08 Comments

My first trip outside Tokyo included architectural masterpieces among an outstanding natural setting, which provided a great sense of relaxation and beauty.

Nikko is a historic town located north of Tokyo, in Tochigi Prefecture. Its many shrines and temples make it one of UNESCO's World Heritage Sites. One of them, Toshogu, was originally a mausoleum for the first military ruler in the Edo Period.

I visited Nikko with a few friends from work; we hopped on a train in Asakusa and traveled for about 2 hours. On the trip there, I was able to enjoy another side of Japan I hadn't seen before, the countryside. I saw vast rice fields, few--but beautiful--houses, and never-ending rail tracks, as well as a unique view of Mount Fuji far-off as we were leaving Tokyo.

We stayed in one of the town's many 'ryokan' (Japanese style inn). Hospitality, superb food and gracious service best describe these inns. The room had the usual fresh-scented 'tatami' floor made of woven rice straw that is found everywhere in the Japanese home. The 'futon' (bedding) laid directly on the 'tatami's. Soon after arrival, they brought us a serving of tea and sweets, a gesture of hospitality deeply rooted in Japan.

After that, we walked for about 20 minutes and reached the temples and shrines. They are all brilliantly colorful and adorned with many sculptures. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves.

Since we went in the middle of winter, the weather in Nikko was very cold, probably around 5C. The city has many mountains and waterfalls. Some of the most beautiful areas are Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and the Nikko Botanical Garden. Unfortunately, I got very sick the first night and had to go home the next day so I couldn't enjoy these places.

Even so, I enjoyed the trip immensely and look forward to visiting again soon, this time with Vivi and hopefully in the autumn, where we can enjoy one of the most beautiful sceneries of multi-color trees.

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