What other travelers are saying about Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Nikkō Tōshō-gū is definitely worth a visit if you’re spending time in Nikkō, especially if you’re interested in history and traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The shrine complex is well-maintained, and the buildings feature detailed woodwork and decorative elements that are interesting to see up close. The famous carvings, like the “Three Wise Monkeys,” are smaller than I expected but still nice to check out as part of the overall walk through the grounds.
The atmosphere is generally calm, although it does get crowded during late mornings and early afternoons. The forest surroundings add a pleasant touch, and the shaded paths make the walk comfortable even on warmer days. There are several steps and some uneven areas, so wearing good shoes is helpful.
The entrance fee for adults is ¥1,600, which feels a bit on the expensive side compared to many other shrines, but considering the amount of restoration and upkeep needed for a site of this age, it’s understandable. Expect to spend about one to two hours exploring at a relaxed pace.
One thing to note is that some areas can feel a bit touristy, especially during peak season, but overall it’s still a nice cultural stop. If you go early in the morning, you’ll have a quieter experience and more time to look at the details without waiting behind groups.
Overall, Nikkō Tōshō-gū is a solid cultural attraction with a good mix of history, nature, and craftsmanship. Not mind-blowing, but definitely a worthwhile stop in Nikkō.
Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nikko, Japan. It is the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, and is renowned for its ornate architectural design and rich historical significance.
The shrine was originally constructed in 1617, shortly after the death of Tokugawa Ieyasu, but it underwent significant expansion and reconstruction in 1634 under the orders of his grandson, Tokugawa Iemitsu.
Key features of Nikko Toshogu Shrine include the Yomeimon Gate, known for its intricate carvings and gold leaf decorations; the Sleeping Cat carving by Hidari Jingoro; and the famous 'Three Wise Monkeys' wood carving that embodies the maxim 'see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.'
Yes, Nikko Toshogu Shrine is part of the 'Shrines and Temples of Nikko,' which was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 due to its cultural significance and exceptional architectural artistry.
Visitors can access Nikko Toshogu Shrine by taking a train from Tokyo to Nikko. From there, local buses or a short taxi ride can bring visitors directly to the shrine complex. The journey from Tokyo takes approximately two hours by train.
Toshogu Shrine in Nikko is an incredibly calming and soothing place. The atmosphere feels peaceful from the moment you enter, and it’s easy to sit here for hours just relaxing and taking in the surroundings. The shrine grounds are quite large, giving you plenty of space to wander, explore, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of the area.
There is an entrance ticket, but once you step inside, you really feel the value of the visit. The detailed craftsmanship, historic charm, and serene environment make it a truly memorable experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a peaceful and meaningful spot to spend time.
This is a beautiful temple with many beautiful details and buildings. It has a rich history and is one of the most famous of its kind. However, it is terribly crowded and loud, and you have to stand in line to see most things - even mid November when we visited. Having lived in Japan we can only conclude that there are many just as beautiful temples and shrines that are far less crowded, for instance in northern Honshu or Kyushu. Still this is worth visiting.
We visited Nikkō Tōshō-gū as part of a day tour from Tokyo, which was perfect since it’s a bit far and we wanted to avoid the hassle of trains and buses. The tour also included other highlights like the lake and the waterfall, making it a full and easy day.
The temple itself is truly impressive , the gold decorations are stunning, and the architecture is breathtaking. The surrounding gardens and grounds are massive and beautifully maintained, perfect for exploring and taking photos.
Overall, a must-visit if you’re in Nikkō. Going with a tour made the day stress-free and allowed us to enjoy the temple without rushing.
A shrine that worships Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo shogunate, as a god. World Heritage Site that represents Japan. Worth visiting once.
The carvings and dazzling gold leaf decorations on the Yomeimon Gate were captivating.
The iconic sculptures of the "Three Wise Monkeys" represented the proverb "see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil" were located at the entrance area.
The "Sleeping Cat" was the famous wooden carving by Hidari Jingoro that appears to be sleeping peacefully, located above the entrance to Ieyasu's tomb.
