Nikko Toshogu Shrine: Expensive but Worth It

Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has an entrance fee of 1600 yen. While buying the ticket, one might marvel at how Tokugawa Ieyasu was wealthy in life and continues to generate income posthumously! The shrine complex is vast with intricate details, and it's recommended to rent an audio guide for 500 yen, which offers a detailed explanation in Chinese. The entire tour takes about two hours. This article shares some insights not covered by the audio guide, which can be useful during your visit. Note that these are personal interpretations, and corrections are welcome. 1️⃣ Origin: Nikko Toshogu Shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first Tokugawa shogun, enshrined in 1617. The main shrine buildings were reconstructed by the third shogun, Iemitsu, in 1636. 2️⃣ Monthly Rituals: There are fixed days each month for rituals (see pinned comment). If you enjoy lively events, mark these dates! If you prefer tranquility, avoid these days as it gets very crowded. I happened to visit during the autumn festival, which was bustling! 3️⃣ Corridor [National Treasure]: Extending from the Yomeimon Gate, the outer walls feature one of Japan's largest floral and bird carvings, using layered openwork painting techniques. Each piece holds high artistic value. 4️⃣ Yomeimon Gate [National Treasure]: Known as one of Japan's most beautiful gates, it is named the Imperial Palace's main gate. It features over 500 carvings of folk tales, children's games, sages, and wise men. 5️⃣ Karamon Gate [National Treasure]: Entirely white, with dragon carvings made from ebony and rosewood, it is extremely luxurious. The ridge beast is a black golden dragon with three claws, vividly lifelike. 6️⃣ Main Shrine [National Treasure]: The "Dragon" on the beams is imposing and lively, with the entire structure in black and gold, exuding solemnity and grandeur. Photography is not allowed inside, so observe the ceiling closely; though it's only one layer, it's exquisitely detailed. 7️⃣ Sleeping Cat [National Treasure]: The softest and cutest spot in the environment, with vibrant colors. It reflects the softer side of the powerful, located on the entrance gate to the Okunoin. Behind the kitten is a hidden sparrow, symbolizing harmonious coexistence. 8️⃣ Shogun's Gundam (Figure): This is so Japanese! A limited edition Gundam, styled like the shogun, is displayed at the main hall entrance. The Three Wise Monkeys carving is explained in the audio guide, so it won't be detailed here. Lastly, the Crying Dragon Hall is a reconstructed building after a fire, requiring a second ticket check. Inside, you can hear an echo when a wooden clapper is struck at a designated spot, said to resemble a dragon's roar, though it's hard to verify. The cultural promotion of the twelve zodiac signs is not aimed at us. Tip: Shoes must be removed inside the halls, and the floors are cold, so bring thick socks! #NikkoToshoguShrine #WorldHeritageJourney #NikkoKinugawa