What other travelers are saying about Nikko Toshogu Shuki Taisai Grand Autumn Festival
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.
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.
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.
One of the most amazing trips of my life. This place is no short of a fairytale in real life! Even though it was raining, it was such a magical experience. Everything was so green. The people near Tochigi are very, very nice and welcoming. If you have time, this is a trip everyone should take! This area is full of beautiful shrines and has lots of rich history. On top of that, there’s some delicious food!
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.
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.
