Jiun-ji — Attraction in Nikko

This along with Takino'o Shrine was my favorite spot in Nikko. It is magical. Stone sculptures of monks covered in moss, some destroyed some well-preserved, lining the forested volcanic canyon where the river flows being fed by waterfalls and other inlets pouring in making a constant crashing water effect. Was a popular spot in the 17th century among ascetic monks, and everywhere are traces of how they must have kept it up, gardens etc, including the reconstructed cliffside pavilion (last one swept away by flood, in 1901 I believe) where fire rituals were performed... A special...

Part of the allure of sightseeing in Nikko is walking in its wonderful landscape. Tour buses can bring you to Kanmangafuchi Abyss but with some good old fashioned common sense, Google maps, a bit of walking and some sense of adventure, you can find this place easily. If you go on foot, it's a 15 minute walk from the bus stop after which you'll be passing through a suburb then a bridge over the Daiya River. Very nice and calming riverside stroll going here. Admission is...

Stating that "this is like nothing I have ever seen before!" is just lazy writing.

The special thing about the abyss are the statue figurines adorned with a red beanie and scarf. Beanies look like they were crocheted according to each figurine's head.

The splash of red lends a good contrast if you're taking...