Introduction
Nikko is a beautiful city located in the Tochigi Prefecture of Japan. It is home to numerous ancient temples, shrines, and natural wonders. However, Nikko is also known for its urban legends or "都市伝説" in Japanese. These legends have been passed down through generations and have become a significant part of the city's culture. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most famous urban legends of Nikko.
The Legend of the Toshogu Shrine
The Toshogu Shrine is one of the most famous attractions in Nikko. It is dedicated to the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, who was one of the most powerful rulers of Japan. According to legend, Ieyasu's remains were interred at the shrine after his death. However, some people believe that his body was never actually buried there. Instead, they claim that his body was secretly transported to another location, and the shrine's mausoleum is just an empty tomb.
The Haunted Ryuzu Waterfall
The Ryuzu Waterfall is a beautiful natural wonder located in Nikko. However, some people believe that the waterfall is haunted by the ghost of a woman who committed suicide by jumping off the cliff. Visitors have reported seeing a woman's figure near the waterfall, and some have even claimed to hear her voice calling out to them.
The Curse of the Kanmangafuchi Abyss
The Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a scenic gorge located in Nikko. The legend has it that during the Edo period, a group of rebel samurai committed suicide by jumping into the abyss to avoid capture by the shogunate. Some people believe that the spirits of these samurai still haunt the area and that anyone who disturbs their resting place will be cursed.
The Mystery of the Red Mask
There is a legend in Nikko about a red mask that brings bad luck to anyone who wears it. According to the story, a traveler in the Edo period came across a mysterious mask in the forest. He decided to wear it, but soon after, he fell ill and died. Since then, the mask has been passed down through generations, and it is said that anyone who wears it will suffer a similar fate.
The Ghost of the Akechi Samurai
The Akechi clan was one of the most prominent samurai families in Japan during the Sengoku period. According to legend, the ghost of one of the Akechi samurai still haunts the streets of Nikko at night. The ghost is said to be wearing a black kimono and carrying a sword. Some people claim to have seen the ghost walking through the city streets, but it always disappears before anyone can get a closer look.
The Curse of the Sacred Bridge
The Sacred Bridge is a beautiful wooden bridge located in Nikko. According to legend, anyone who crosses the bridge will be cursed if they look back. This curse is said to bring bad luck and misfortune to the person for the rest of their life. Visitors are warned not to look back when crossing the bridge.
The Legend of the Sleeping Dragon
There is a natural rock formation in Nikko that resembles a sleeping dragon. According to legend, this dragon is responsible for protecting the city from harm. However, some people believe that if the dragon ever wakes up, it will bring disaster to the city.
Conclusion
Nikko is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Its urban legends add a sense of mystery and intrigue to the already fascinating destination. Whether you believe in these legends or not, they are an essential part of Nikko's cultural heritage and are worth exploring during your visit.
References:
https://www.japan-talk.com/jt/new/the-urban-legends-of-nikko
