After arriving at Tobu Nikko Station at 10:50 am, we will take a bus to Shinkyo Bridge Bus Stop.

Shinkyo Bridge is one of the most iconic and historically significant landmarks in Nikko and located at the entrance to Nikko's shrines and temples, including the famous Toshogu Shrine.

This bridge is known for its distinctive architecture and striking appearance, featuring a gentle arch and vibrant red lacquer.

After watching the Shinkyo Bridge, we will have an early lunch at "Yuba" Restaurant named "Aburagen" just in front of Shinkyo Bus Stop.

"Yuba" is a food product made from soybeans. It is created by boiling soy milk and then skimming off the thin layer that forms on the surface. This layer is Yuba, which can be eaten fresh or dried for later use. Yuba has been a part of Japanese cuisine for centuries, particularly in Buddhist vegetarian cooking. Buddhist temples emphasize vegetarianism. Yuba became a staple for monks who followed a strictly vegetarian diet. This restaurant specialize in Yuba dishes. Its unique preparation and versatility make it a culinary attraction for visitors.

After watching the Shinkyo Bridge, we will walk up to the Rinnoji Temple, which is a historically and culturally significant religious site in Nikko. It was founded by Shodo Shonin, a Buddhist monk who introduced Buddhism to Nikko in the 8th century.

Its main hall, known as Sanbutsudo, is remarkable for housing three large, gold-leafed wooden statues of Buddhist deities: Amida, Kannon with a thousand arms, and Kannon with a horse's head. These statues are worthwhile to see because they are considered national treasures.

Taiyuin Temple serves as the mausoleum of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third Shogun and the grandson of Tokugawa Ieyasu, whose mausoleum is the nearby Toshogu Shrine. It is quite similar architecture to Toshogu Shrine, but less gorgeous.

Taiyuin Temple is a fine example of the fusion of Shinto and Buddhist elements that is characteristic of Nikko's religious sites.