Home to the extravagant resting place of Japan's most famous Shogun, Nikko is where deep history meets rugged nature. Skip the crowded tourist traps and follow this route to discover ancient cedar forests, architectural masterpieces, and the best views in the Tochigi Prefecture.

The electronic hum of Tokyo dropped the second I stepped onto the platform of a station I’d never heard of. Senzoku-Ike taught me that the best part of Japan isn’t a viral destination—it’s the quiet, canal-lined spaces in between. Here is why you should stop planning and start wandering.