Nikko is practically synonymous with the Toshogu Shrine, often described as Japan’s most lavishly decorated shrine.  It makes a great day trip from Tokyo by train.  There’s more to see in the area but we only made it to Toshogu.

Getting to Nikko

There are several ways to get there by train – the choice comes down to whether you have a JR pass or not.  Assuming you do, the JR Tohoku Shinkansen goes from Tokyo to Utsunomiya, where you transfer to the JR Nikko line to Nikko.  Plan on about 2 hours each way from Tokyo.

Getting around Nikko

There is a World Heritage Meguri loop bus that goes from the train station thru town to Nikko and back.  We decided to walk from the station to the shrine – it’s about a 40 minute walk thru town.  We took the bus on the way back.

There are a number of places to eat a meal in Nikko before or after visiting the shrine.

Toshogu Shrine

The shrine really is worth a trip.  The shrine is decorated with amazing word carvings, including the famous “Hear no evil, Speak no evil, See no evil” monkeys.  Detailed carvings and decorations cover the srhine.  Lots and lots of gold.