Tochigi Hidden Gems

Home to Nikko's lavishly carved shrines and the mountains and lakes behind them — the classic day trip north of Tokyo.

2 spots

Climate & Best Season

Hot plains summers and cool mountain air in Nikko/Oku-Nikko, which sees snow. Late October–November for foliage.

Karasawayama was a Fujiwara mountain castle held by the Sano family for centuries, and it is one of the few castles in t…

Sano ramen is defined by how the noodles are made. A length of green bamboo is anchored at one end and the maker sits on…