When someone first hears about Japan, maybe the first picture that comes to mind is Mt. Fuji, or those traditional streets and houses which you can find in Kyoto. After searching a little more, you are invaded with pictures and videos of huge metropolises with the tallest skyscrapers, overflowing trains, and neon signs everywhere.
However, while being one of the countries with the most advanced technology, Japan preserves its traditions, its history, and they coexist in perfect harmony with the futuristic side of the country.
Surely coming to Japan and not visiting Tokyo is like going to Rome and not seeing the Pope, but there are beautiful secrets hidden outside the big city.
Nikko is a city located in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, approximately 140km north of Tokyo, and it is a very popular destination for both Japanese and foreign travelers. Its attractions include the mausoleum of the famous Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu (Toshogu), the Futarasan Shrine (dating from 767), and you can also enjoy a lot of hot springs, as elevations range from 200 to 2,000m.
But what we are focusing today is yet another attraction, Edo Wonderland.
This cultural theme park takes you 400 years back in time to the Edo period, back when the present Tokyo had that name. The concept of Edo Wonderland is to make you the visitor to feel like you are an Edo citizen, and you can start by renting a traditional costume, like a kimono! That said, it is very common to see visitors wearing Samurai, Oiran, or Ninja clothes!
If you bring kids, there is one activity that you must let them do, which is becoming the city authority and pursuing criminals! But here is the most interesting part: you are handed a wanted poster, and the criminal might be anywhere in the city! And there is more! Being this is the reconstitution of a city, there are a lot of stores, restaurants, and private homes, so if you ask "local people" for help, they might know where the criminal is! Isn't it just awesome?
You can also enjoy Ninja displays in the Grand Ninja Theater, and even outside at the Fire Tower, with performances full of energy and interaction with the public.
An Oiran Parade, performances at the Traditional Japanese Culture Theater, the Ninja Training House, the Golden Tea Ceremony Room, the Ninja Trick Maze, a ride in the Yakata Boat, and many other attractions will also turn your visit to this theme park into a really fun experience!
