Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokogawa Shogunate which ruled Japan for over 250 years, has his final resting place at Nikko’s Toshogu Shrine.  The Toshogu shrine has elements of both Shinto and Buddhist religions.  The shrine complex is composed of over 12 buildings, one of which is a 5 story pagoda located at the entrance so it’s impossible to miss.  The pagoda is sometimes open to visitors for an extra fee.

(photo by pongnathee)

The next set of buildings are storehouses.  This shrine’s architecture is known for its intricate artistic details.  The carvings and gold foil artwork are what make this particular shrine stand out from the rest.  One of the most famous of all the carvings is the "see no evil, speak no evil and hear no evil" monkeys.  Another well known piece is the “imagined elephant”, created by someone who had never seen an elephant.  

Other structures include the large Yomeimon Gate and Honjido Hall.  Honjido Hall is home to the famous “Crying Dragon” painting.  The painting is on the ceiling of the hall and was given its name because of the ringing that echoes through the halls when two pieces of wood are hit together directly under the dragon’s head.  Priests often create the sound effect as a performance for guests.

The main shrine building is dedicated to historical figures including Tokugawa Ieyasu, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Minamoto Yoritomo.  It’s accessible to visitors but photographs are prohibited.  Behind the main shrine is Sakashitamon Gate which is decorated with the nemurineko (sleeping cat) carving.  Behind the Gate begins a long staircase leading to Tokugawa Ieyasu’s mausoleum.

Nikko is a particularly popular place to visit during the fall when the leaves change color.  Nikko's Toshogu Shrine is located 10 minutes by bus and 30-40 minutes walking from Tobu and JR Nikko Stations.

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Written by Carly Susman (www.carly-rose.com)
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