Japan Guide : Nikko Tosho-gu (栃木県)
On the first day of our trip to Nikkō, we visited the SL Railway Museum to learn about the history of steam locomotives when they were still in operation. We also enjoyed some fireworks and other attractions at Kinugawa Onsen. The next day, we visited another popular sightseeing spot, Nikkō Tōshō-gū.
Nikkō Tōshō-gū (日光東照宮) is a famous Shinto shrine located in Nikkō, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. It was established in 1617 to enshrine Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The shrine is renowned for its elaborate architecture and richly decorated buildings, including the Yomeimon Gate, which is often highlighted for its intricate carvings and vibrant colors.
The shrine complex is set within a beautiful forested area, adding to its serene and majestic atmosphere. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Monuments and Sites of Japan,” recognized for its historical significance and artistic heritage.
Key features of Nikkō Tōshō-gū include the famous “see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil” monkeys carved on the Sacred Stable, the stunning lantern-lined approach, and the elaborate carvings of the Yomeimon Gate. The shrine’s main hall, known as the Honden, is adorned with ornate details and reflects the grandeur of the Tokugawa era. Visitors to Nikkō Tōshō-gū can experience both the spiritual and cultural richness of Japan through its architectural splendor and historical significance.
When visiting Nikko, one must not forget to try the various dishes made with yuba.
Yuba(湯葉) is a traditional Japanese food made from the skin that forms on the surface of soy milk when it is heated. It has a delicate texture and a subtle flavor, often described as slightly nutty or creamy.
Yuba is highly prized for its nutritional value, being rich in protein and low in fat. It can be used in various dishes, both savory and sweet, and is often found in Japanese cuisine in forms such as fresh, dried, or deep-fried. In some regions, it is considered a delicacy and is enjoyed for its unique texture and flavor. We had the chance to enjoy yuba soba and yuba udon. From the soft-textured yuba to the crispy, deep-fried yuba, the variety of cooking methods used was very interesting.
When traveling to Nikkō, using a sightseeing train is highly recommended. This time, we included a ride on the Spacia X in our itinerary to fulfill my train-enthusiast son’s wish.
The Tobu Railway’s “Spacia X” is a premium express train service that offers a luxurious and comfortable travel experience to Nikkō. Known for its sleek design and advanced features, the Spacia X provides spacious seating, high-quality amenities, and panoramic windows to enhance the journey. Passengers can enjoy modern conveniences such as onboard refreshments and attentive service, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxed and enjoyable trip to Nikkō. The Spacia X connects major cities like Tokyo with Nikkō, providing a convenient and stylish way to reach this historic destination.
We managed to secure a “compartment,” which is a four-person private room, that can be reserved starting one month in advance. This compartment was equipped with a sofa and a foldable table. While the adults enjoyed special coffee and butter-sandwich cookies flavored with sake lees, the children had fun with bento boxes shaped like the Spacia X train, featuring items like soboro donburi and salmon sushi. Although we were on the return journey, it turned out to be a very memorable experience!
Behind the scenes :
During this trip, a new addition to my son’s collection was the Spacia X bento box. Throughout the summer vacation, I diligently packed his lunches into this bento box.
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