June 16, 2026

Nikko Snapshots

Anne Whitaker and Madison Blum offer their insights on the groups overnight trip to Nikko, where experiences ranged from UNESCO World Heritage temples and shrines, to fog-draped mountains, to the simple joys of good food and a relaxing dip in an onsen, a traditional Japanese hot spring bath. — Luke Strosnider, Program Director

This week, we had an overnight stay in Nikko, Japan. The bus ride was very long, but well worth it and we saw the beautiful countryside of Japan. We only stayed one day in Nikko, but there was a lot to do.

Clouds, hills, a lake, and a person looking out. — The view as we cruised around Lake Chūzenji.

My favorite part was the matcha ice cream and the onsen. The experience of the onsen was magical. It was super relaxing to be fully immersed within the bathtub. There was a place to wash yourself and after a place to make yourself beautiful. It was very nice to be pampered with a nice bath. Being in the onsen was the best personal time in my life.

A traditional Japanese meal including tempura and noodles. — A delicious meal before our cruise.

We also had lunch after the wonderful boat ride. The food was very good, and the small dishes complemented the main dish. — Anne Whitaker

Our trip to Nikko lasted two days and had us visiting many places.

A Japanese garden. — Garden at the Tamozawa Imperial Villa.

Our first stop was Tamozawa Imperial Villa, built in 1899 as a summer residence for the Imperial Family. There was also a garden to look at.

The view from atop a boat looking out at water, hills, and clouds. — Aboard the small cruise around Lake Chūzenji.

Later we went on a short cruise on Lake Chuzenji, where we saw views of mountains.

A five-storied pagoda amongst a wooded setting with tourists about. — A five-storied pagoda at Tōshō-gū shrine.

We also visited Tōshō-gū shrine while at Nikko. — Madison Blum