🌿 A Perfect Day in Nikko: Shrines, Nature & Local Sweets

Just two hours from Tokyo, Nikko is the perfect escape into nature, culture, and tradition. Here's how to enjoy a perfect day in this mountain town known for its sacred shrines, waterfalls, and yuba sweets 🍬. ☀️ Morning: Grand Shrines & Forest Paths 🛕 Start at Toshogu Shrine Japan’s most lavishly decorated shrine, with golden carvings, the famous "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" monkeys 🐒, and Tokugawa Ieyasu’s mausoleum. ⏱️ Tip: Go early to beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful forest path. 🌳 Stroll Through Nikko’s Shrine Complex Do not miss Futarasan Shrine and Rinnoji Temple—all within walking distance and surrounded by ancient cedar trees 🌲. 🍱 Midday: Scenic Walks & Local Lunch 🏞 Walk Along the Shinkyo Bridge Snap a photo of Nikko’s iconic vermillion bridge over the Daiya River — it's especially dreamy in autumn 🍁. 🍜 Lunch with a Local Touch Try Yuba soba (tofu skin noodles) or yuba donburi at a family-run restaurant nearby. Yuba is Nikko’s specialty! ✨ Optional: Head to the small Yuba-making museum if you're curious how it’s made. 🌊 Afternoon: Nature & Waterfalls 🚗 Head to Lake Chuzenji & Kegon Falls (bus or taxi, ~40 mins) The scenic Irohazaka Winding Road leads you up the mountains to Lake Chuzenji, where you can take a lakeside walk or rent a paddle boat 🛶. 🌊 Visit Kegon Falls One of Japan’s top 3 waterfalls, dropping 97 meters into a gorge — absolutely breathtaking. Take the elevator down for the full view! 📸 Autumn foliage here is unreal from mid-October to early November. 🍡 Late Afternoon: Sweets & Souvenirs ☕ Chill in a Traditional Café Try a local café with yuba cheesecake, matcha latte, or wagashi (traditional sweets). Look for riverside views or tatami seating for extra charm. 🛍️ Shop for Nikko Crafts Handmade wood carvings, lucky charms from the shrines, and yuba snacks make great souvenirs. 🚆 Return to Tokyo (or stay overnight in a Ryokan) You can easily return to Tokyo by train in the evening — or, better yet, spend the night in a traditional ryokan with a hot spring bath 🛏️♨️ for the full Nikko experience. 💡Pro Tip: Buy a Nikko All Area Pass for transportation + discounts. It’s super handy if doing shrines + lake area in one day.