Marvel at Nikko Tosho-gu, the lavishly decorated shrine and mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Edo shogunate. Your government-licensed guide reveals the symbolism behind its gilded carvings, the famous Three Wise Monkeys, the Sleeping Cat, and the soaring five-story pagoda set among towering ancient cedars.

Visit Rinno-ji, Nikko's most important Buddhist temple, founded in the 8th century by the monk Shodo. Admire the Sanbutsudo, its grand main hall enshrining three giant gold-lacquered Buddhist statues, and stroll the serene Shoyoen landscape garden with your guide.

Stop at the sacred Shinkyo Bridge, ranked among Japan's three finest bridges, whose vivid vermilion arch spans the rushing Daiya River at the entrance to Nikko's shrines and temples. It is a classic photo spot framed by forested mountains.

Explore Nikko Futarasan Shrine, dedicated to the deities of the area's three sacred mountains and founded more than 1,200 years ago. Wander its tranquil, cedar-shaded grounds beside Tosho-gu and discover sacred springs and ancient bronze lanterns with your guide.

Visit Taiyuin, the ornate mausoleum of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun and grandson of Ieyasu. Tucked into a quiet cedar grove, its gilded gates and richly carved, dragon-adorned halls are considered among the finest examples of Edo-period craftsmanship.

Drive up the dramatic Irohazaka winding road to Kegon Falls, ranked among Japan's three most famous waterfalls, where the outflow of Lake Chuzenji plunges 97 meters down a sheer cliff. It is especially spectacular in autumn when the surrounding maples turn crimson.

Pause beside Lake Chuzenji, a tranquil crater lake formed by an ancient eruption of Mount Nantai and lying around 1,200 meters above sea level. Ringed by forested peaks, it offers crisp mountain air and beautiful reflections, especially vivid during the autumn foliage season.

Stop at Akechidaira Plateau, a scenic lookout reached via the Akechidaira Ropeway, offering a sweeping panorama of Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji framed by the cone of Mount Nantai. It is one of the finest viewpoints in the Nikko highlands and is breathtaking during autumn.