NIKKO

TYPE AND LEVEL OF TRIP : Moderate level trip with sightseeing around villages and easy optional walks

WALKING SEASON : Recommended from April to November

Ieyasu was the first Shogun of the Tokugawa clan, who seived power and effective rule of Japan in 1600. He led the country for a further 16 years until his death, but his legacy continued and the Tokugawa Shogunnate ruled Japan through to the Meiji Period until 1868. Ieyasu was enshrined at Tosho-gu in Nikko and the region played a big part in his life. 

Take a scenic train ride out from Tokyo to the picturesque mountains of Tochigi Prefecture to learn about this iconic leader, credited with unifying Japan, and his powerful Tokugawa clan through the atmospheric UNESCO site which now houses his mausoleum, together with a complex of spectacular shrines. In addition to a rich history and culture, Nikko is also well-known for its beautiful nature. After exploring the enctral area, travel deeper into Nikko's varied landscape to Oku (inner) Nikko, to enjoy exhilarating hiking through the marshalands towards Nikko Yumoto Onsen, a hot spring village with comfortable inns, spending two further days hiking in the region.

Travel by train to Nikko. It was here that in 1617 the Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu had himself enshrined. These extravagantly ornate buildings are now on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites - there is ample time to visit all the main shrine structures today. A convenient network of buses enables access to many of the town's wonderful sites, including the 3 great falls of Nikko. After sightseeing here, relax at a wonderful inn situated along the nearby river valley.

Accommodation: Onsen Ryokan (Hot spring Travellers Inn)

This morning, take a bus further into the mountains to Oku Nikko. The forests and mountains here have been sacred to the Japanese for 1,200 years, and your first hike in the area is a gentle introduction to the region following the Yukawa River towawrds the Onsen Village of Nikko Yumoto where you will spend the evening. The hike also takes in two spectacular waterfalls Ryuzu and Yudaki Falls.

Walking distance: 8.4 km / 5.2 miles
Elevation gain: 295 m / 970 feet of ascent and 90 m / 295 feet of descent 
Time required : 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Onsen RYokan (Hot spring Travellers Inn)

Heading north east from Yumoto Onsen, today's hike offers exceptional scenery along the Oku Nikko plains, skirting both Mount Mitsudake and Mount Orogura. The trail loops around to the south before returning to Yumoto Onsen for a second night. Sightings of both monkey and deer are common on this wonderfully rural trail.