Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Japan's most lavishly decorated Shinto shrine โ a UNESCO World Heritage complex of gilded halls, pagodas, and the famous Yomeimon gate, built to enshrine shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Rinnoji Temple & Taiyuinbyo
A grand Buddhist temple complex in Nikko housing three giant gilded Buddha statues, and Taiyuinbyo โ the mausoleum of the third Tokugawa shogun, quieter and equally spectacular as Toshogu.
Kanmangafuchi Abyss
A hauntingly beautiful riverside walk lined with dozens of mossy stone Jizo guardian statues, following the gorge of the Daiya River through cedar forest just outside Nikko town.
Mashiko Pottery Town
Japan's most famous pottery village, home to 300+ kilns producing the rustic Mashiko-yaki style. The Hamada Shoji Memorial Hall preserves the workshop of the legendary mingei potter.
Utsunomiya Castle Ruins & City
The reconstructed keep of Utsunomiya Castle set in a hilltop park, surrounded by the lively gyoza-restaurant streets and shotengai of Tochigi's prefectural capital.