Nikko National Park
Nikko National Park is located in Tokyo and has a total area of approximately 1,400 square kilometers. The park has been operating since 1934 and is one of the most visited in the country. This is a picturesque corner of Japanese nature, which, as locals say, is a must-visit to understand the mysterious Japanese soul. There is a special atmosphere here that gives inspiration.
Brief description
Nikko National Park includes a plateau and a mountain range with an extinct volcano; picturesque lakes and waterfalls, hot springs and swamps rich in unique vegetation are hidden in dense forests. The Nantaisan mountain peak is a dormant volcano. Lake Chuzenji, located at an altitude of 1269 meters above the sea, was formed after the eruption of a now inactive volcano, after which the river bed was blocked. The water here is too cold for swimming, so people come to the lake to admire the trout and unique scenery. And you can swim in the hot springs in Nikko National Park.
Park Features
There are 48 waterfalls in Nikko National Park. The most famous of these is Kegon on the Daiyagawa River on the southern shore of the lake. The height of the water fall is 97 meters, on the sides of the main stream there are 12 small ones. Those wishing to admire the grandiose spectacle will be taken to the observation deck by a special elevator. Another Ryuudzu waterfall is located in the northern part of the reservoir; it is not as high, but much wider than the first. You can admire the seething stream from the tea house.
The relatively small park accommodates several natural zones: coniferous and deciduous forests, shrubs, alpine meadows. Plum and sakura trees grow in the forests - a symbol of Japan. Some of the cherry blossoms that grow near Ritsuin Shrine are said to be up to 200 years old. In spring, you can find Kongosakura here, which blooms not with pink, but with golden inflorescences. In autumn, golden maple leaves become the decoration of the park. Of particular interest are the unique high-altitude swamps. In conditions of high humidity, azaleas and cotton grass, the exquisite Lysichiton Kamchatka, and other unique plants grow. Wild animals live here in natural conditions - wild boar, sika deer, roe deer, white-breasted bear. There are many birds in the dense thickets.
The eruption of the Nantaisan volcano formed the largest lake, Chuzenji, fed by the Yukawa River, on which the Ryuzu Falls is located. The shores of the lake are especially beautiful in early spring, when the surrounding mountains are covered with a pale pink mist of cherry blossoms, or in October, when the maple leaves turn red. The Daiyagawa River flows from the lake, which, not far from the source, forms one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan - Kegon, 97 m high and 7 meters wide at the foot. The large waterfall is accompanied by 12 small waterfalls on the sides. There are 48 waterfalls in Nikko, but Kegon Falls is the most famous of them.
Religious monuments
At the entrance to Nikko National Park lies the city of Nikko. Nearby are ancient Buddhist temples and places of Shinto worship. Of particular interest is the Toshogu temple complex, built in honor of the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. Toshogu Temple is the tomb of a great ruler; his tomb is made entirely of bronze. The entire complex has two dozen buildings. The park contains a number of sacred Shinto shrines dedicated to ancient Japanese deities. Taiyuin Temple, built in the 17th century, is often visited by Japanese women.
Hiking is available for visitors to the park; several routes have been developed. Popular activities include fishing and skiing. The reserve has a well-developed infrastructure and all conditions for a comfortable and pleasant stay. Numerous cafes and restaurants, ski resorts, and balneological resorts are available to visitors. Several festivals are held here on national holidays. From the Japanese capital you can get to Nikko National Park by car or by train; the travel time is 2-2.5 hours. You can find out the train schedule in advance.
