Kanmangafuchi Abyss

Kanmangafuchi is a short gorge on the Daiya river, about twenty minutes' walk west of the shrines, where the water runs fast through dark volcanic rock. A path follows it past a long row of stone Jizo statues in red caps and bibs, many softened by moss — the Bake Jizo, said never to come to the same number when counted twice.

It is one of Nikko's quietest corners, with soft forest light, the sound of water and few people. The statues and the path make calm, atmospheric frames.

The statues are religious figures: photograph them with respect, and don't touch them or move their caps and bibs. The path can be slippery after rain.