Nikko and Lake Chuzenji

A World Heritage Site nestled in the lush mountains, Nikko Toshogu Shrine is known for its magnificent architecture and treasures. As you admire the splendid buildings, we will share stories about the history surrounding the shrine, as well as introduce you to the whimsical animal carvings adorning the structures. We hope you will gain a deeper appreciation of the shrine's rich history and cultural significance.

Goma fire is a ritual in which goma wood is piled up in a crisscross pattern in a furnace, burned away our earthly desires with the fire, and by purifying our hearts, we pray to the principal image of the deity for protection from disasters, good fortune, and protection from misfortune.

You will witness the sacred ceremony with beautiful voices of the monks echoing through the goma hall sometimes sound like Gregorian chants.

Nikko has a long history of martial arts by Samurai, and holds grand festivals twice a year.

The festival includes a dedication of the sacred "Yabusame" horseback archery ritual, as well as the "Procession of 1,000 Warriors," a reenactment of the procession that took place when the spirit of Tokugawa Ieyasu was reburied from Mount Kuno in Sunpu to Nikko.

Nikko's untouched nature shows different faces with each season. The changing colors of the trees every day, the dynamic waterfalls in summer, the vibrant foliage in autumn, and the tranquil scenery in winter make it a place you'll never get bored of.

You can enjoy Nikko's nature in a variety of places, such as from the suspension bridge, by the lake, or trekking in the mountains.

Yuba, a specialty of Nikko, is the delicate skin formed on the surface of boiling soy milk, offering a unique and flavorful experience. This traditional dish can be enjoyed in various forms, such as fresh sashimi-style, simmered, or even in desserts.

It will provide you with an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine and a deeper appreciation for its culinary traditions.

Edo Wonderland is a cultural theme park that transports you to a meticulously recreated Edo period town (1603-1868). Here, you can dress up as a samurai, ninja, or princess, and enjoy live performances, samurai and ninja experiences, and more. This immersive attraction offers a fun and engaging way to learn about Japanese history and culture, making it an enjoyable destination for visitors of all ages.

Various flowers bloom in every season, including wisteria, azaleas, water lilies, and hydrangeas in the area over 82,000㎡. Especially over 350 wisteria trees bloom in early spring is iconic, creating a fantastical world that is reminiscent of the movie "Avatar".

Selected by CNN as one of the "Top 10 Dream Destinations in the World for 2014," only place in Japan along with "The Northern Lights in Finland" and "The Baobab Trail in Madagascar."

Oya stone, known for its distinct bluish hue and prized in Japan for its softness and durability, has long been used in sculpture and architecture. The Oya Stone Underground Quarry features expansive, cathedral-like chambers, remnants of centuries of mining. This awe-inspiring space offers a fascinating insight into Japan's architectural and industrial history, making it a unique destination.