Nikko

Recommendation by Wabisavi

🍁⛩️ The first thing that shocked me in setting foot in 𝗡𝗶𝗸𝗸𝗼 (apart from the 10 degree temperature rise) was the sheer amount of tourists crowding every corner. And if there is one thing that spoils me a good temple crawl, are crowded noisy grounds. With a combination of early alarm and wise time management, I eventually managed to visit all the main shrines and temples I had on my plan. None of which left a deep impression on me. Don't get me wrong, there is reason why Nikko is a UNESCO Heritage site. The temples housing the tombs of the 1st shoguns are the most extravagantly decorated in Japan (and probably the biggest this side of Kyoto). But that is not all that makes up the charm of a temple. I do believe one of the reasons why Nikko is so popular is its proximity to Tokyo, making it a good day trip for people who aren't going to Kyoto. If you are visiting Kyoto, you can totally skip Nikko in my opinion. Unless you are a die-hard 𝗜𝗲𝘆𝗮𝘀𝘂 fan (like me, then you will make this trip no matter what). 👍 If I were to return here, I would take more time to explore the beautiful nature that surrounds the temple town. 𝗖𝗵𝘂𝘇𝗲𝗻𝗷𝗶 𝗟𝗮𝗸𝗲 offers not only hot springs, but waterfalls and hikes aplenty. (I was planning on going there, but significant train delays exponentially increased my commuting time to Kanazawa). https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tokugawa_Ieyasu

From Hokkaido To Kyushu Autumn Itinerary