Place of worship • 2301 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1431, Japan
Yomeimon Gate is the symbol of Nikko Toshogu. Its luxurious decorations will captivate you. Everywhere you look, you will find surprises, from the gold leaf and carved pillars and beams to the colorful carvings under the eaves. Don't miss the works of Hidari Jingoro, known as the 'Michelangelo of the East.'
Within the grounds, there are many charming carvings that will make you smile, such as the Three Monkeys ('See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil') and the Sleeping Cat that looks like a real cat. Enjoy these pieces that reflect the playful spirit of the artisans.
Past Okusha Pagoda and climbing over 200 stone steps, you'll reach Tokugawa Ieyasu's mausoleum. In this solemn atmosphere, you can feel the reverence for the great figure who founded the Edo Shogunate and the weight of history.
Registered as a World Heritage site, Nikko Toshogu shows different faces throughout the year. Cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful leaves in autumn, and snowy landscapes in winter. No matter the season, you'll be enchanted by the beauty of the shrines harmonized with nature.
Nikko Toshogu is a rare place where you can experience Japanese history, culture, and craftsmanship all at once. Enjoy this journey that will make you feel like you've traveled back in time, enveloped in luxurious decorations and a solemn atmosphere.