To reach Toshogu Shrine from Nikko Station by bus, take the Nikko city bus heading towards Toshogu Shrine or Shinkyo. The ride takes about 5 to 10 minutes, and buses typically depart from the bus terminal near the station. Alternatively, you can take a Tobu Bus, which also offers routes to the shrine area. Be sure to check the local bus schedules for exact bus numbers and departure times, as they may vary depending on the season.
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Nikko Grand Spring Festival
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The Nikko Grand Spring Festival (日光東照宮春季例大祭) is an annual celebration of traditional Japanese culture, held at the iconic Toshogu Shrine in May. One of the festival's most exciting features is the Yabusame tournament, a mounted archery competition that has its origins in the Kamakura period. In this exhilarating event, skilled archers from across Japan showcase their talent by riding horseback up a hill and shooting arrows at distant targets placed 70 meters apart. The competition is both a thrilling spectacle and a tribute to Japan’s historical connection to the samurai tradition, attracting visitors from all over.
The festival takes place over two days, on May 17th and 18th, with the Yabusame tournament held on the first day. The event is deeply rooted in history, with descendants of the Tokugawa family playing a key role in overseeing the competition. This connection to the samurai legacy honors the ancient skills of archery and martial arts, while providing a unique opportunity to experience Japan’s rich cultural traditions. The Nikko Grand Spring Festival is not only a celebration of the past but also a chance for visitors to witness a living tradition that links the country's historical roots with the present day.
When
- When
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The Nikko Grand Spring Festival is held annually on May 17 and 18, with the Yabusame mounted archery competition taking place on the first day, May 17.
Getting there
Resources
Japanese
Nikko Grand Spring Festival
Official website
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