Nikko National Park is located on the island of Honshu in the Kanto region. It is widely known as one of Japan’s most beautiful parks. It is one the most popular tourist destinations and a great place to enjoy the natural scenery. Check out these 7 reasons you should explore the great outdoors!
1. Shrines and Temples
The park is home to many historical Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. The most notable of which are the Nikko Tosho-gu (Shinto shrine) and Rinno-ji (Buddhist temple). While there is an entrance fee for the temples and shrines, visitors agree that they are well worth the money.
2. Kegon and Ryuzu Falls
Nikko National Park has two main waterfalls: Kegon and Ryuzu. Kegon is one of the three highest waterfalls in Japan. Ryuzu is a set of twin waterfalls. Both are spectacular sights to behold and an area to cool down after a long hike!
3. Mount Nantai
Mount Nantai also known as Futara-san is a stratovolcano. It is a popular hiking sight and on the list of 100 most famous mountains in Japan. It is also considered to be a sacred mountain as it provided streams of water to the earliest Shinto shrines during the Yayoi period.
4. Lake Chuzenji
Source: Masayuki (Yuki) Kawagishi
Lake Chuzenji is a beautiful lake that sits at the bottom of Mount Nantai. The lake drains out of the Kegon Falls. There are a few temples such as the Chuzenji Temple and the Futara Shrine that are around the lake. During spring time, the cherry blossoms bloom creating a scenic area for hikers and other visitors.
5. Plant Life
For flora enthusiasts, Nikko National Park has a number of different species of plants and trees. These include the white skunk cabbage, maples, firs, and also sugi, which are cedar trees that adorn the Nikko roads.
6. Onsen
Nikko National Park also has many onsen or hot spring resorts. Come relax and take a bath after a long day’s exploration of the beautiful park.
7. Recreational Activities
Nikko National Park is also a great place for visitors who want to do something very active. Popular activities include golfing, hiking, and camping.
Information
- Name: Nikko National Park
- Address: Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture – due to size of the park, check individual addresses of the historical sites
- Price: $126-$140
- Opening hour: Monday through Sunday 8AM-3:30PM
- Website: https://www.env.go.jp/park/nikko/
Nikko National Park is a beautiful area for some exercise and relaxation. Spend some time with the gorgeous scenery here!
Have a good trip and travel!
