"Keeweechic's Nikko - Japan" Nikko by keeweechic

Nikko Travel Guide: 236 reviews and 612 photos

I read that the Japanese apparently have an expression that you cannot say "Kekko" (meaning magnificent) until you have seen Nikko. The national park is certainly that, not to mention the most popular of all 27 national parks scattered throughout Japan. The park spreads across 200,000 acres taking in majestic mountains and picturesque lakes. Some of the most famous Nikko mountains are Mt. Okushirane (2,578m) , Mt. Nantai, Mt. Nasu, and Mt. Hiuchi. To reach Nikko will take you less than 2 hours by train from Tokyo. Once arriving, it is like stepping into a world of tranquility and sheer natural beauty. There are many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and climbing trails, not to mention excellent fishing. In winter, there is cross-country skiing and ice skating. There are also many hot springs in this park.

Nikko, Japan is known historically as a religious centre in Japan. It is said that a Buddhist priest named Shodo Shonin came to Nikko and crossed the Sacred Bridge over the Daiya River and a legend has it that Shonin earnestly recited a Buddhist Sutra to enable him to cross over to the magnificent mountains and over to the other side. The old man in white clothes with a white beard appeared and tossed into the air two snakes, one green and one red, which then formed a bridge. Shonin was then able to cross the river on the backs of the two serpents and continued on his pilgrimage to Mt. Nantai. In 1636, the "Sacred Bridge" was built at this spot in order to be used by the shogun and his messengers to cross the river. Unfortunately in 1902 floods destroyed the bridge but it was rebuilt in 1907.

Toshogu is said to be the most popular Shrine in Japan to visit - it was certainly quite remarkable. It was built as a shrine and mausoleum to deify Ieyasu Tokugawa (1543-1616), founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate (1603-1868). Toshogu is famous for the ornate carvings which decorate the buildings both inside and outside.

Approaching Nikko you will see many large Japanese cedar trees, a lot of which are over 350 years old. Thousands of them are all around the shrines and roads leading to neighbouring villages.

Nikko is a place of sacred beauty with rich history. Majestic temples were built to honour the gods. Devout priests performed spiritual ceremonies here and it was a great drawcard for the powerful seeking tranquillity .

Photos which are taken by myself and all headings are copyright and digitally marked. Please do not use them without permission. Thanks. (c) keeweechic 2001-2006 (copyright)

Intro Updated Jul 31, 2006
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Reviews (35)

Packing List What to Pack (1)

During the summer months, Japan can be hot and humid so you will need light clothing. In hilly areas of Nikko, it can... more travel advice

Cryptomeria Avenue. Things to Do (22)

About 16,000 cedar trees were planted over a 20 year period during the construction of the Toshogu Shrine. . more travel advice

207 Steps to the Inner Shrine Things to Do (22)

There are 207 Steps to the Inner Shrine. Make sure you take a few good deep breaths before starting your climb. Worth... more travel advice

Crime Local Customs (6)

Japan is the virtual nonexistence of violent crime. If you leave your briefcase or camera in a taxi, often it will be... more travel advice

Travelogues (1)

Written Jun 6, 2005

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Comments (14)

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aukahkay Mar 2, 2008 at 8:41 AM

I will be staying at the Nikko Kanaya Hotel from 5 - 7 April 2008. Looking forward to the cherry blossoms there.
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Toyin Jun 24, 2005 at 6:59 AM

Great tradition and culture of Nikko..great exposition. Regards.
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Wild_Orchid Apr 30, 2005 at 8:25 AM

comprehensive tips, lovely pictures. Thank you for the virtual tour!
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matcrazy1 Apr 1, 2005 at 12:40 PM

Absolutely fantastic temples, shrines and pagodas. And a lot of fascinating history... a must see unknown for me, silly, as for now. Thanks for sharing :-)
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bugalugs Sep 18, 2004 at 12:35 PM

Such a lovely page,pics and information, although I dont know about needing a deep breath with the 207 steps and 48 hairpin bends, I think I would need a stiff drink! :-)
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dr.firas Aug 5, 2004 at 2:42 AM

Wonderful trip and pictures Keewee! it's amazing I love Japan and hope to visit it one day! Arigato! XXX
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Sweetberry1 Nov 12, 2003 at 7:53 PM

Such a beautiful place.. The Kegon Falls must be spectacular. The Temples and Shines are Awesome Keewee... Gosh.. I do dislike Pettiness... ;-/
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Nykaenen Nov 12, 2003 at 7:25 AM

"Photos which are taken by myself and all headings are copyright and digitally marked. Please do not use them without permission." What about photos that are not yours and that you used without giving proper credit to the source?
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alza Oct 13, 2003 at 8:49 PM

oh wow! i was drawn here by a photo on VT homepage! a grreat page. thanks keewee! I'll be here one day for sure! :-) & tks for warning me about the 207 steps! :-)
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american_tourister May 18, 2003 at 4:34 AM

Wow ! You take some great photos.