About Toshogu(Shrine)

Nikko Toshogu Shrine is located in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, and is known as the mausoleum dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu in the early Edo period. Following the wishes of Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Shogunate, the shrine was extensively renovated to its present form in 1636 by Ieyasu's grandson, Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun. Because of its gorgeous architectural style and artistic value, it is registered as part of the World Heritage Site 'Shrines and Temples of Nikko'.

The main feature of Toshogu Shrine is its magnificent architecture, which is decorated in extreme colours. The main buildings include the main hall, the stone torii gate and the Y?my?mon Gate, in particular the Y?my?mon Gate, also known as the Nipporimon Gate, which is said to be so beautiful that visitors are mesmerised by its beauty and lose track of time. The Yomeimon Gate is decorated with hundreds of carvings, including lions, dragons, birds and flowers carved with exquisite detail.

Toshogu Shrine is also dotted with many attractions. For example, the Sleeping Cat sculpture was created by the famous sculptor Jingoro Sa and is painted in the East Gallery. Behind this sleeping cat sculpture is a sparrow, symbolising peace and the cat not attacking the sparrow. The 'three monkeys' also symbolise the teachings of 'see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil', conveying a lesson on the education of children.

At the rear of Toshogu Shrine is Okusha, Ieyasu's grave site, where visitors can climb stone steps to visit his mausoleum. The path to the Okusha is also surrounded by beautiful nature, creating an atmosphere of tranquillity and mystery.

Furthermore, Toshogu Shrine is a place where the scenery can be enjoyed in all four seasons. The cherry blossoms bloom in spring, the fresh greenery in summer, the autumn leaves in autumn and the snowy landscape in winter, offering a different charm every time you visit throughout the year.

Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a tourist attraction that combines its magnificent architecture, beautiful sculptures, historical value and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a moment of tranquillity while deeply immersing themselves in Japanese history and culture. When visiting Nikko, be sure to visit Toshogu and enjoy its splendour.