NIKKO, a small town where the beauty of the nature meets the wonder of the history, was the first destination for my visit to Japan. Located about 3-4 hours by train from Asakusa Station or about 140 km north Tokyo, Nikko is a perfect destination for the travelers to spend an extra day or two in the proximity of Tokyo. A day trip is also popular. But for a person who always gets lost like me, staying for two nights seemed like a better choice since I wanted to take my time in exploring the area and I wanted to make sure that I have enough time to find my way around.
Asakusa Tobu Train Station, located a few minutes by walk from the famous Sensō-ji, was where my solo trip to Nikko began. As the train was leaving from Tokyo, the panorama slowly changed from skyscrappers, packed residential areas, to lushing rice fields, mountains and rivers.
StartFragmentThe first sight of Nikko and its foggy mountains did not disappoint me at all. I wasn't aware that my Nikko trip package already included the bus. Therefore, filled with excitement, I headed towards the hotel. Well, the walk turned out to be longer and more tiring than expected. But along the way to the hotel, I got to stop by Shinkyo Bridge, Nikko's famous red bridge that stands across Daiya River (the topmost photo). It was totally worth!
StartFragmentAs soon as I checked in at the hotel, I headed out to visit Toshogu Shrine - a must-visit destination of Nikko. This shrine was built by Tokukawa Iemitsu (1543-1616). The shrine also features Pagoda and The Honji-do's celling, painted with the "crying dragons," which echoes the sound of a clap. Ieyasu's Tomb and the Treasure Tower is within a short walking distance.EndFragmentEndFragment
StartFragmentStores and restaurants in Nikko closed quite early. Around 6pm - 7pm, the town was already quite quiet. It was getting dark too. So, I figured out that it was better to return to the ryokan (a traditional Japanese style hotel) and relax a bit in the hot spring bath. EndFragment
The room had tatami floor and the traditional futon bed as seen in the picture on the right. They also provided a yukata, a traditional Japanese dress that is less formal than Kimono. My first hot spring bath was awesome experience. When I looked out of the windows in the bathroom, I could see Daiyan river. And I was glad that the bath tub was private since I was not ready for the 'real' ryokan experience yet.
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In the next morning, I planned to take the bus (which is a part of the Tobu package) to visit Kegon Waterfall and Lake Chuzenji. The humid air around the waterfall and its panoramic scene were very rewarding. I then continued my promenade around the lake. It was very peaceful. But soon the afternoon heat tired me out and I therefore decided to return to the hotel.
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