What other travelers are saying about Nikko Toshogu Shuki Taisai Grand Autumn Festival
It’s worth the price.
This temple is magnificent. The sculptures, the ornaments, and decorations are amazing. The trees are old (+400 years), one feels the energy of the place. We purchased a discount ticket as we came after 4pm (1 hour before closing), but this prevented us to visit every part of it (the way to the top was already closed). I would recommend to take your time to visit this temple. You will also learn a lot about Japan history.
Probably the most impressive shrine I've visited while in Japan. Amazing architectural details in multiple buildings in a wonderful natural surrounding. Quite important too since it is Tokugawa's resting place. Some very famous landmarks are here too, like that cat (not impressed) and the 3 monkeys that hear, see and speak no evil. Totally recommend it.
This shrine is absolutely breathtaking. It is a best of the best. The opulence and quality of the art work and craftsmanship overwhelms the senses. This is one of those bucket list items. A truly mesmerizing shrine. This alone is reason enough to visit Nikko.
Obviously a need to go to spot for locals and tourists alike.
The masonry work on the walls here is inexplicably built with precision and beauty.
***buy tickets at the train station where you buy bus tickets. Long line at the shrine/ temple itself.
If you are physically able I recommend walking to there is a short walk and a good stretch for all the stairs you will go up at the shrine. There are a lot of stairs for those overweight/ older/ medical issues be aware be safe be patient with yourself but it's worth the journey after all you made it all the way here to Japan take the extra steps to see some history.
The area has some un-noted areas that are enjoyable to walk through though the area around the shrine has some good hills.
I did not walk to the water fall but there is a sign saying 30 min walk to the waterfall which in restorspect I wish I had done.
I bought a kimono at a small local shop for about half the price than tokyo and made on site by a wonderful elderly couple about halfway between the temple and train station. ATM is at family mart close to station but on the way for those that didn't prepare with enough cash(some food and soveneir places are cash only)
Buy your express return tickets in advance they do sell out they are not refundable or exchangeable so plan accordingly but while.
We stayed at a spa on other side of nikko and then went to the temole on way backput our baggage in large locker on platform 4 for 800-900 yen depending on locker size ( small bag check in upstairs)
Ornate, intricate temple complex. Order tickets at the train station in Nikko as lines are very long even in the off season. Temples are colorful and sizable! We spent about an hour and felt we had time to take it all in. Lot and lots of stairs to get to the upper mist temple area but plenty to see at the lower level.
The festival is held annually on October 16th and 17th, marking the anniversary of Tokugawa Ieyasu’s enshrinement at Toshogu Shrine.
As with any cultural event in Japan, it’s important to respect the ceremonies and those participating, avoid loud conversations, and follow any instructions from festival staff.
The processions are primarily for shrine staff and invited participants, but visitors are welcome to observe and enjoy the spectacle as spectators.
Nikko is accessible by train from Tokyo via the Tobu or JR lines, but be prepared for crowded trains during the festival days. Consider traveling early in the morning to avoid the rush.
