Settled within a trefoil of untouched topography, there’s much to explore in this year-round idyll, adding a traditional Japanese twist to the classic countryside retreat. Just a 10-minute stroll from where the mountains meet the waterside takes you to one of Japan’s prettiest waterfalls, a free-flowing thunder captivating in its cascade, except in the icy winter months, when its frozen formations resemble age-old stalactites amid sparkling snow-covered scenery. Needless to say, this year-round destination abounds in outdoor pursuits no matter the climate, with hiking, cycling, paddleboarding and forest bathing leading the lineup.

Following suit, sporting adventures aren’t the only thing guided by the seasons. Across a cultural blend of cuisine, The Ritz-Calton Nikko prides itself on serving a seasonal menu sourced locally from the farms and orchards of the Tochigi Prefecture. A fitting addition to two standout restaurants, afternoon tea is enjoyed in the quiet comfort of the lobby, inviting a pause over poetry-inspired cocktails to peruse the art and literature on show. Though it’s the Kaiseki dining at The Japanese Restaurant and the westernised Lakehouse – a likely nod to the original Lakeside Hotel that once stood in its place – that are not to be missed.