Tochigi Prefecture is home to one of Japan’s absolute must-see destinations: the UNESCO World Heritage shrines of Nikko. Beyond the gilded grandeur, the prefecture offers mountain hot springs, lush national parks, and the sweetest strawberries in Japan.
Top Attractions
1. Nikko Toshogu
The Toshogu Shrine complex is among the most lavishly decorated in Japan — a dazzling display of gold leaf, vivid lacquerwork, and intricate carvings set deep in a cedar forest. The famous “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil” monkeys are here, along with the sleeping cat (Nemuri Neko) that guards the inner sanctum.
2. Kegon Falls & Lake Chuzenji
One of Japan’s three great waterfalls, Kegon Falls plunges 97 meters into a misty gorge. Lake Chuzenji above it — Japan’s highest lake — is surrounded by mountains and is spectacular in autumn.
3. Kinugawa & Nasu Onsen
Tochigi has two of Japan’s most popular onsen resort areas. Kinugawa Onsen lines a dramatic river gorge, while Nasu is a beloved highland resort with hot spring hotels, safari parks, and pasture farms.
Food & Drink
Tochigi is Japan’s top strawberry producer — the plump, sweet Tochiotome and Sky Berry varieties are prized nationwide. Also try Gyoza (Utsunomiya City claims to be Japan’s gyoza capital) and fresh milk products from Nasu’s dairy farms.
Getting There
From Tokyo Asakusa, the Tobu Nikko Line reaches Nikko in about 2 hours. From Shinjuku, the Romancecar reaches Nikko in about 1 hour 50 minutes.
