Tōshogū Shrine (東照宮) is one of Japan’s most opulent and historically significant shrines, located in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture.
It is the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, which ruled Japan for over 250 years. Unlike many traditional shrines with minimalist aesthetics, Toshogu is famous for its lavish carvings, vibrant colors, and intricate gold leaf details, making it one of Japan’s most visually stunning religious sites.
Highlights
- Yomeimon Gate (陽明門) – The most famous structure in Tōshogū, this intricately decorated gate is covered in over 500 carvings of mythical creatures, sages, and animals. It is sometimes called the “Sunset Gate” because visitors can admire its beauty for an entire day.
- Three Wise Monkeys (三猿) – A famous wood carving on the Sacred Stables depicting “See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil,” representing Buddhist teachings on moral conduct.
- Sleeping Cat (眠り猫, Nemuri Neko) – A tiny yet well-known carving above a doorway, symbolizing peace and protection.
- Ieyasu’s Mausoleum – A short but steep climb leads to the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, set deep in the forest behind the shrine.
- Karamon Gate (唐門) – Another elaborately decorated gate featuring white carvings of Chinese-inspired motifs.
📍 Location: Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
🏯 Significance: The lavish mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate (ruled Japan for 250+ years).
🎨 Style: Unlike minimalist shrines, Tōshōgū is famous for gold details, vibrant colors, and intricate carvings.
✨ Highlights
🌅 Yōmeimon Gate (陽明門) – The “Sunset Gate,” adorned with 500+ elaborate carvings of mythical creatures and sages.
🐵 Three Wise Monkeys (三猿) – The famous “See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil” carving, teaching Buddhist morality.
🐱 Sleeping Cat (眠り猫) – A small but iconic carving symbolizing peace and protection.
⛰️ Ieyasu’s Mausoleum – A steep climb leads to the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, deep in the forest.
🚪 Karamon Gate (唐門) – A beautifully carved white gate with intricate Chinese-inspired motifs.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tōshōgū Shrine is a must-visit for history, culture, and architecture lovers! 🏯✨
Hours and Admission
- Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm (4:00pm November through March)
- 1300JPY (2100JPY for Shrine and museum ticket)
- Average Time Spent: 1 hour
- Official Website
Accessing Toshogu Shrine
The shrine complex is located about a 30-45 minute walk from Nikko Station, the closest train station to the shrine. A bus service is also available for those travelling to the shrine for 310JPY one way, or a 500JPY for a nikko bus pass. The bus departs from Tobu Station, around the corner from the JR station.
From Tokyo, take the Tobu Railway to Tobu-Nikkō Station (approx. 2 hours). From there, buses run to the shrine area in about 10 minutes.
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Where to Stay
Chuzenji Kanaya Hotel
A historic lakeside resort with onsen baths and stunning views.
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Nikko Lakeside Hotel
Cozy, Western-Japanese style accommodations with easy access to the lake.
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