Understand

Embark on a journey back in time as you discover the ancient temple of Nikko, steeped in over 1,200 years of history. This sacred site was established along the serene shores of the Daiya River. In 1616, the influential Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu expressed his final wish to his successors, commanding them to "Build a small shrine in Nikko and enshrine me as the God. I will be the guardian of peace in Japan." Witness the magnificence of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed mausoleums of the Tokugawa Shoguns. These awe-inspiring structures, adorned with intricate carvings, lavish gold leaf, and vibrant colors, boast a unique blend of Japanese and Chinese influences. Traverse through a majestic forest of more than 13,000 cedar trees, embracing the profound tranquility that surrounds this hallowed ground. Be captivated by the renowned trio of the wise monkeys, immortalized in small wooden carvings on a stable wall, capturing the imagination of all who encounter them.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing