When you say you’re holidaying, everyone expects it to be a significant place. But major cities or popular holiday destinations aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. And while I do visit major locations, I’m more attuned to finding those quiet, off-the-beaten-track and local-lifestyle encompassing places.
So, if you are looking for peacefulness, somewhere where you can slow down, smell life, rest and rejuvenate, particularly after the hustle and bustle of Japan’s big cities, then a few days at Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture is the answer to your dreams.
Two hours by Tobu Railway train or a 150-kilometre drive north of Tokyo, you’ll find this tranquil and non-touristy location. In and around Nikko, you can unwind, meditate, relax in hot springs and enjoy the authentic delights of Japanese culture away from the crowds.
However, if time doesn’t allow, a day trip will still touch the senses and whet your appetite for more another time.
Nikko’s claim to fame is its abundance of nature, multiple natural hot springs and culturally significant Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.
Nestled at the entrance to Nikko National Park, it is surrounded by Taro, Nantai and Nyoho mountains (or Nikko Sanzan). This small unpretentious town with a population of only 80,000 evokes spirituality, tranquillity, and calmness. It’s a place to find your Zen and experience olden-day Japanese life. It’s no wonder the town’s slogan is “Nikko is Nippon”.