Things to do in  Tochigi Prefecture

Many travelers visit beautiful Nikko for its UNESCO World Heritage–listed cultural sites, but beyond the town lies Nikko National Park, home to numerous lakes, excellent hiking trails, and two stunning waterfalls—all set against dramatic mountain scenery. Particularly popular among hikers, nature lovers, and those who appreciate Japanese architecture, Nikko National Park is easily accessible from Tokyo.

Visit Ashikaga Flower Park to see one of Japan's best displays of blue, white, and pink wisteria (“fuji” in Japanese). Less than two hours from Tokyo, it's the country's largest wisteria garden with more than 350 wisteria trees, including one that is more than 100 years old and whose branches create a huge umbrella of blue fuji flowers.

At this fun historical theme park, visitors can see and experience what life was like in Japan during the Edo period, between 1603 and 1868. Edo Wonderland is a replica of an Edo-period town, where every detail convinces visitors that they’ve stepped back in time. History buffs, families, and anyone seeking a fun and informative activity will enjoy Edo Wonderland.

Toshogu Shrine (Nikko Toshogu) was built in 1617 to honor Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the dynasty that ruled Japan for more than 250 years. It's one of Japan’s finest and best-preserved Shinto shrines, surrounded by a Japanese cypress forest in the popular but still peaceful town of Nikko.