Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a very popular destination in Japan, especially among tourists. It is located in the city of Nikko, which is about two hours north of Tokyo, and it is one of the most important and elaborate Shinto shrines in Japan.

The shrine was built in the early 1600s and is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan from 1603 to 1868. The shrine is known for its intricate carvings, detailed paintings, and gold leaf decorations, which are considered to be some of the finest examples of Japanese art.

Nikko Toshogu Shrine is also famous for its numerous stone lanterns, the three wise monkeys (see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil), and the Sacred Stable, which is said to house the sacred white horse of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The shrine is also surrounded by a beautiful forest and has several other buildings and shrines that visitors can explore.

Overall, Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Japanese culture, history, and art. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors each year.

Access from Tokyo to Nikko Toshogu Shrine by train

To travel from Tokyo Station to Nikko Toshogu Shrine by train, you can follow these steps:

1. Take the JR Tohoku Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya Station. The journey takes about 50 minutes and there are multiple trains departing every hour.

2. Transfer to the JR Nikko Line at Utsunomiya Station and take the train to Nikko Station. The journey takes about 45 minutes. You can use your JR Pass or purchase a ticket at the station.

3. From Nikko Station, most visitors take a bus or taxi to Nikko Toshogu Shrine. There are frequent buses available and the journey takes about 10 minutes. If you have time and energy, you can definitely get there on foot and enter the shrine site through the beautiful Shinkyo bridge

Overall, the total travel time from Tokyo Station to Nikko Toshogu Shrine by train is approximately 2 hours.

Want to learn more about the JR Pass? Visit jrpass.com for detailed information!

Extended trip from Nikko

If you can stay a night and are willing a 40-minute bus ride, you should definitely check out the Lake Chuzennji and Kegon Falls which are located close to each other.

1. Lake Chuzenji: This beautiful lake is located in the mountains above Nikko and is a popular spot for hot springs, boating, fishing, and hiking.

2. Kegon Falls: One of the most famous waterfalls in Japan, Kegon Falls drops 97 meters (318 feet) into a gorge below. Visitors can take an elevator down to the base of the falls for a close-up view.