Continuing the theme of introducing some of the first and most famous tourists spots in Japan, the ones that first captivated the world with Japan, we have Nikko. However, I will use it as the jumping off point to areas that are more inline with the stated purpose of this stack, lesser known Japan.
I was working on this post when I suddenly had to replace my iPad Pro and have misplaced all that I typed. Thankfully, the photos I edited for it have been found. An entire book could be written on all that Nikko offers to the tourist, but I do not have the time to write it. More than likely, others already have. What I will attempt instead is to wet your whistle through the old post cards of the Erich Sontag Postcard collection and more recent photos I have taken and a couple of maps to whet your explorative appetite. What follows is a miniseries in a series as Nikko offers too much to adequately cover in just a couple of posts, much is lesser known to casual tourists from overseas.
First up, is the Shinkyo Bridge.
From the Erich Sonntag Postcard collection
The Sacred Bridge dates from 1636 and leads to the various shrines and temples that make up the Nikko complex Prior to 1973, it was off limits to the general public, though when I first saw it in the mid 90s, it was in such a dilapidated state that I doubt it could have been used by anything larger than a good sized house cat. It was last renovated in the late 90s through the early 2000s and for a fee, you can now walk across it. If you visit Nikko, please do pay for the experience. It affords some unique views and photo opportunities and provides needed funds to keep it in good repair.
Below are photos I took during Golden Week in 2011.
This view seems to be from the exact opposite point of view from that of the postcard above. I took this from the side opposite the shrines.
The above photo was shot from the modern bridge that accommodates vehicles and pedestrians. The shrine side is to the right.
Across the river from the shrine is the classic Kanaya Hotel. The building we see here is the Annex which was built in the 1930s, if I remember correctly. Have not been able to confirm as of this writing. It is in this building that my wife and I stayed for our stay in Nikko. This is where local help comes in handy. She was able to find greatly discounted reservations through some kind of promotional program, otherwise too pricey for us. Lovely stay.
Above is the main building which dates from the late 1800s. This hotel is Japan’s first western style resort hotel. It originates from a visit to Nikko by Dr. James C. Hepburn. The founder of the Hepburn system of romanization of the Japanese language stayed in the home of Zenichiro Kanaya and suggested he open a western style hotel. Other famous guests include Isabella L. Bird and Charles A. Limburg. I believe the former US President U. S. Grant stayed here too on his visit to Japan. The hotel imported the first electric generator to Japan and imported and maintained its own heard of cattle to provide fresh milk, butter and beef for its guests. Dinner was excellent.
Notice the date on the lower right of the menu. They reprinted the menu and recreated the meal they served on that date.
Another view of the annex.
Inside the main building.
Another view of the inside of the Kanaya’s main building.
I took enough photos of this hotel for a large photo book of the place. One of the truly magical stays here.
Next, I’ll we’ll take a look at the main draw of the are, Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Iyesu Tokugawa’s mausoleum….but NOT where his spirit currently resides. How is THAT for a tease.
Lovely photos, this place is magical.
-Edwin