Nikko National Park: Guide to Hiking, Heritage and Hot Springs
Guide to Nikko National Park
Imagine a place so sacred that the final resting spot of a deified Shogun is located in its woods. Nikko National Park, less than two hours from Tokyo, is a destination where Japan’s spiritual and historical past collides with its wild beauty. The park is famous for the lavish Nikko Toshogu Shrine, where Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, is enshrined.
But did you know that Nikko’s forests have been protected since the 17th century because of their religious importance? Beyond the shrines, Nikko’s vast landscapes include the stunning 97-meter Kegon Falls and the calm waters of Lake Chuzenji, formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Visitors can trace the footsteps of samurai or trek up one of Japan’s famous mountains, discovering layers of history and nature along the way.
Nikko is one of the most popular destinations from Tokyo, keep reading so you can understand why!
See also: Nikko: Best Things to Do
What is Nikko National Park?
Nikko National Park (日光国立公園) is a sprawling national park established in 1934, covering over 1,149 square kilometers across Tochigi, Gunma, and Fukushima prefectures. Known for its unique combination of cultural landmarks and breathtaking natural scenery, it attracts millions of visitors annually. The park’s landscape is defined by mountains, lakes, waterfalls, marshlands, and hot springs, so it’s a prime destination for both nature enthusiasts and history lovers.
One of its key attractions is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, built to honor Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate. Alongside this, the park boasts famous natural wonders such as Lake Chuzenji, created by volcanic activity thousands of years ago, and Kegon Falls, which is one of Japan’s top three waterfalls. Visitors can also explore remote hot spring villages like Yumoto Onsen and wander through the sacred forests that have been preserved for centuries.
The park offers year-round activities, from hiking trails in the summer to snowshoeing in the winter, making it an ideal destination regardless of the season.
What to Do at Nikko National Park?
Nikko National Park offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors, from exploring its rich cultural heritage to enjoying its outdoor adventures. Here’s a detailed guide to what you can see and do:
Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine
The Nikko Toshogu Shrine (日光東照宮) is one of the most renowned attractions in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the early 17th century to enshrine Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The shrine is famous for its intricate carvings and gold-leaf details, most notably the famous “Three Wise Monkeys” carving that symbolizes the phrase “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.” Visitors can also walk through the complex’s tranquil forest pathways, visiting other significant structures like Yomeimon Gate and the Ieyasu’s mausoleum.
Hiking Trails in Okunikko
For nature lovers, the hiking opportunities in Okunikko (奥日光) are not to be missed. One of the most popular trails is through Senjogahara Marshland (戦場ヶ原), known for its beautiful flora and views of the surrounding mountains. The trail offers a relaxing yet scenic hike and is especially popular during autumn, when the area bursts into vibrant fall colors. More advanced hikers may want to consider the ascent up Mt. Nantai (男体山), one of Japan’s 100 famous mountains, which offers sweeping views over Lake Chuzenji.
Explore Lake Chuzenji
Lake Chuzenji (中禅寺湖), formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago, is another must-visit. Here you can enjoy various activities, including boat tours that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains, or simply relax by the water’s edge. The area is especially popular in the autumn when the surrounding forests turn into a vibrant sea of red and orange leaves. For those looking to dive deeper into the local history, a visit to Chuzenji Temple (中禅寺), located along the lake, offers a mix of scenic beauty and religious significance.
Marvel at Kegon Falls
Arguably one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Japan, Kegon Falls (華厳滝) is a 97-meter drop from Lake Chuzenji and is considered one of Japan’s top three waterfalls. Visitors can take an elevator to the base of the falls for an up-close view or admire it from the observation decks above. In winter, the falls often freeze, creating an extraordinary scene of frozen beauty.
