Travelling and Japan goes well together. It is beautiful and the more you explore it, the more you want to see. It is perfect for all the various types of trips you can imagine. There are many places that you can go for your solo trips. Japan is truly set up for the solo traveler. There are places for your group trips, like those girl trips that us girls tend to love. And of course, there are romantic places for the couples amongst us, and even if you are not quite at coupledom yet, it is also the perfect place to fall in love. Honestly, I think I have done all three of those things there, especially in an incredibly special place called Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture. It is a beautiful, scenic area filled with the trappings of traditional Japan and nature's beauty. From temples and ramen shops to wonderful waterfalls, Nikko has it all. It is the perfect place for a romantic date, a girl’s weekend or that solo trip. Nikko has a special place in my heart, and I know it will for you too once you visit.
The places in the following list can all be enjoyed in a group, as a couple or as a solo traveler, depending on your personality and preferences. But these selections were just according to my own experience and those of my friends.
What to do in Nikko - The Girls' Trip
Ah, the girls trip. The laughs, the food, the good times and the crazy. These are the trips that we never forget. Add all those elements to the breathtaking backdrop of Nikko and you have the perfect trip. The first thing we did when our group arrived in Nikko was to check out our dwellings where we would be staying for the weekend. This is also a good tip for all your travels, no matter who you are with: If it is your first time, plan to stay at least one night, which could mean two days or a day and a half. There is just so much to see you. The next big one is, book your room beforehand. Book your rooms before you arrive because it is never a guarantee that there will be affordable rooms available when you arrive.
Nikko National Park
The National park spreads across four prefectures. It is quite big, so there are lot of different places to see within the park itself, including shrines, temples, gardens, and hot springs. In Nikko National Park we went to Rinnoji Museum and Garden, which had a lovely garden and pond. The walking path was also fun and relaxing. We also went to Rinnoji Temple and Toshogu Shrine. Rinnoji Temple
Rinnoji is Nikko’s most important temple, according to the Japan-guide and was founded in the 8th century. Rinnoji Temple, Nikko Toshogu and Futarasan Shrine, together, forms the Shrines and Temples of Nikko UNESCO World Heritage Site. No pictures or recording is aloud in the temples or shrines, which turned out to be good because it lent an air of quiet and reverence to the experience. While walking through the areas of the temple everyone listened and spoke in hushed tones. It was a lovely experience.
Toshogu Shrine
Toshogu Shrine is one of the biggest shrines in the Nikko National Park. The shrine’s complex consists of more than a dozen buildings set in the beautiful forest of Nikko National Park. The buildings are exquisitely decorated with wood carvings and a large amount of gold leaves. The architecture and design of the shrine is considered somewhat extravagantly decorated when compared to other shrines and temples. There is a cost to enter the shrine, but it is worth it. It is quite gorgeous and there is a lot to see there. You can learn more about both the Shinto and Buddhist elements that is within the shrine itself. It is also a good tour to have with friends or a special someone.
The Cafes
Oh, the many cafes that can be found in Nikko is one of the main attractions for me. I love food and the many options available at Nikko is a foodie’s delight. There are options for Japan’s traditional food, for instance, ramen shops, tempura, and other traditional Japanese meals. There are also western fast-food restaurants available if you are in the mood for fast food. Whatever, your preference, it is obtainable, and you can get a quick and easy meal to replenish your strength and enjoy the rest of the sites. Or you can just chill and have a chat with your friends while you eat, because nothing triggers good conversation and laughs more than good food.
What to do in Nikko - As a Couple
The Shinkyo Bridge
The Shinkyo Bridge is a great spot for the romantics. The view there is extraordinary, and for that reason I highly recommend it for everyone. To miss out on the Shinkyo Bridge and its view, is to miss out in a big way. The bridge is located at the entrance to Nikko's shrines and temples and stands over the majestic Daiwa river. According to Japan Guide it is ranked as Japan's top 3 finest bridges. I know my friends enjoyed the view and shopping in the little souvenir shop located near the bridge. I’m sure you will too.
Kegon Falls
The expansive and gorgeous Kegon Falls is one of the highlights of Nikko and the Nikko National Park. If you can handle the traffic to the Falls, it is a sight to behold. This is a perfect viewing spot for a romantic afternoon with your partner. The Kegon Falls is especially busy in the Fall season as people come to see the changing of the colours of the leaves. It is one of Japan’s most beautiful falls to see. Onsen
Onsen are usually separated according to gender. But there are some that are unisex. However, whether your time in the onsen is spent together or by yourself, it is still a good activity to do as a couple. It leaves you rejuvenated and refreshed. This can be done at the end of your day of exploring. There are quite a few Onsen locations that provide a good view, nice ambience, and a perfect place to relax for awhile. Here are a few that we have visited. There is Nikko Onsen that is located near the Nikko temples. The Kinugawa Onsen, which is made up of two onsen, Taki Onsen and Fujiwara Onsen. There are also a few more that you can visit, but it is best to do a search of which ones are closer to where you will be staying in Nikko.
What to do in Nikko - The Solo Traveler
For me, the first thing I enjoyed about the solo trip was the long drive from my location to Nikko. I think it took me about four hours. The drive probably should have taken less time, but I took my time, enjoyed the scenery and the music (a must have for long trips) and it was glorious. Driving to Nikko is also a good option whether you are alone or with a group, just bear in mind that unpaid parking might be hard to find. So, plan accordingly.
The solo traveler, of course can visit all the places mentioned above. There are no limitations. But additionally, there are some other fun activities that travelers especially like doing alone: walking tours and biking tours.
Walking Tours
There are paid private tours available. Depending on the group you are with these can turn out to be quite enjoyable. They usually include lunch stops and the guides normally know the best spots to take you. You can also make suggestions about your route and stops depending on the type of tour it is and the guides. If you are somewhat familiar with the area, you can also go on these walks on your own and let the mood and your google map guide your way. These are usually the best kind of tours, anyway, because then you don’t have to adhere to a specific schedule and the wishes of a tour guide.
Bike Tours
For the cyclers, bike tours are also available. This activity gives you the beautiful scenery, great company, and great exercise! What more could you need. I am not much of a cycler myself, but I have read reviews about the bike tours available, and they have been good. I have also heard firsthand accounts from friends who have gone on these bike tours and loved it. However, if you are not up for the groups you can rent a bike in Nikko and go for a ride and enjoy the ride and the scenery on your own.
Conclusion
Nikko is a great place to take the mini vacay. However, when you plan your trip, bear in mind the weather. In summer it gets extremely hot and humid, which might lead to profuse sweating. Depending on who you are with that might leave you feeling a little self conscious, especially if the person is not too nice about it. So please, learn from my mistakes and plan for the weather. Conversely, in the winter it can get pretty cold, so plan for that as well. I would love to hear about some of your best trips. Do you prefer travelling with your partner, or a girls or guys trip or are you set up for solo travels? Share your stories below. Travel tips are also appreciated. Happy travels guys! (at least when we can).
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