Nikko and
Kinugawa!
- Toshigi Prefecture (January 2-4, 2003)
| Part 1 | Part 2 |
 |
 |
| Nikko is an historically important area in Japan, but is an even more popular tourist attraction due to its close proximity to Tokyo. Tosho-gu, a shrine from the 17th century, interests some people. I was more amused by the gigantic dog we found in front of it. | In Nikko, we stayed at Nikko Tokanso, a really terrible Japanese ryokan located close to Tosho-gu. The room we had smelt like smoke, and the dining room has apparently not been renovated since the Meiji Period. |
 |
 |
| Along with my sister, who had come to visit me for New Year's, Yuka was kind enough to come along. Actually, she borrowed her parents' car and drove us the entire way. Somehow we survived. | After having suffered one night of torture at Nikko Tokanso, we left Nikko for nearby Kinugawa. The town is located close to Nikko, and I honestly did not notice any difference. This picture is from Tobu World Square. |
 |
 |
| Tobu World Square is filled with replicas of various world monuments. From the back of this camel, I could actually see the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The only thing missing was Muslim suicide bombers and French leftists, but who knows what to expect as the park grows. | My sister and I made an attempt to look like Muslims, but no one was really impressed. I will try to find a Darth Vader costume or a burqua for Yuka, and then go back. That should scare everyone. |