Kegon Falls

A visit to Japan offers rich history and culture as well as blend of modern and traditional with wonderful food, sights, and people. I lived there for 12+ years and offer travel recommendations with friends and family who plan to visit! This introductory guide is especially helpful for first time visitors to Tokyo... and beyond. Japan is an archipelago of over 14,000 islands of which approximately 260 are inhabited. Japan's four major islands are Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku. Read on for information about when to visit, where to stay, and sights to see in Tokyo as well as ideas for other places to visit, foods to try, and useful Japanese travel phrases. * Save this guide for a future trip*

Explore some hidden gems and more well known spots of Nikko! We will be exploring mainly around the areas of Kinugawa Onsen and Tōbu-nikkō. Note: Nikko is well-known for it's many waterfalls and the area around Lake Chūzenji. Since I'm from the Pacific Northwest, the waterfalls are similar to what I would see near my home. That plus the nauseating bus ride up the super switch-back road (search google maps for "Nikko Iroha Slope InitialD") is why I'm skipping that area on my Nikko tour.

Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historic city known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural treasures, including the ornate Nikko Toshogu Shrine, serene Kegon Falls, and picturesque Lake Chuzenji. Surrounded by lush forests and mountains, it offers a perfect blend of spiritual heritage and scenic exploration, making it an essential destination in Japan.