Our friend Grace, the Texan in Tokyo, traveled with a friend to Tochigi Prefecture and the famous city of Nikko. They began their journey at the Kanman-ga-Fuchi Abyss, where they went hiking in the heavy rain before getting some tasty-looking udon with yuba (tofu skin). The night ended with a harrowing journey in the darkness in search of an onsen.

The second and third days brought even more adventure. The pair managed to find their way Kegon Falls (despite the foggy haze), venture out to Lake Chuzenji (while avoiding wild monkey attacks!) and, on the final day, trek to Nikko Tosho-gu Shrine, which is home to Yomei-mon Gate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the ubiquitous three wise monkey carvings.

Nikko is a truly amazing, magical place that has a lot to offer. For more information about this historical town that's just two hours away from Tokyo, check out some of our handy tips, fascinating videos and breathtaking photographs here.