What is a Ryokan? Ryokans are the best way to experience Japanese culture and enjoy the true comforts of Japanese hospitality and service.
Hot springs have a very long history in Japan, and they are an intimate part of Japanese culture. There are over 3,000 "onsen" ,or hot springs, in Japan. Many can be found at the ryokans available on Japanese Guest Houses.
Ninety miles (144 kilometers) north of Tokyo in Tochigi Prefecture lies the historical site of Nikko. Nikko's colorful shrines and temples and its national park offer the visitor a wonderful combination of both Japanese history and natural beauty. Nikko means "sunlight," and its shrines and temples were constructed in the 17th century in honor of the great shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu. This complex of temples and shrines at Toshogu are the highlight of Nikko, and afterwards visitors can explore the mountains along Nikko's numerous hiking trails. At the nearby 200,000 acre Nikko National Park sits the tranquil lake of Chuzenji-ko and the resort of Yumoto. Below are some photos and further descriptions of Nikko.
