Experience Tochigi Nikko, a charming town in Japan’s Tochigi prefecture with plenty of attractions where you can experience authentic Japanese culture. Visit various historical and cultural landmarks in the company of a driver-guide.
The first stop will be the UNESCO World Heritage site which is the memorial of Tokugawa Leyasu, founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. Peruse sculptures full of legends such as the "Three Apes", "Sleeping Cat", and the "Singing Dragon" can be seen inside the building (entrance ticket excluded).
You'll then continue on your journey with a visit to Shōyō-en Garden. Be amazed by the 3,200-square-meter garden within the precincts of Rinno-ji Temple, with a history spanning over 1,250-years (this stop is included from Oct. 15 to Dec. 10). Starting from Dec. 11, you'll be able to visit the Observation Deck instead of the Rinno-ji Temple Shoyoen Garden. Akechidaira Ropeway Observation Deck is the most popular observatory in the Nikko area, with views of both Chuzenji Lake and Huayan Falls.
Next, you'll take a pleasant drive down Irohazaka Road. This mountainous road in Nikko is famous for its scenic driving route. Don't miss Japan's highest-altitude natural lake, Lake Chuzenji. Throughout the seasons, it offers breathtaking scenery, including rhododendrons in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and snowy landscapes in winter.
The last stop will be the magnificent Kegon Falls which was formed when the Daiya River was rerouted by lava flow.