Nikko Toshogu Shrine deifies Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founding shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled for over 260 years during the Edo period.

Tokugawa Ieyasu significantly advanced the development of modern Japan by creating the Bakuhan system. After his death at the age of 75, a Shinto funeral was conducted on Mt. Kuno in Shizuoka Prefecture, leading to his deification in Nikko.

The third shogun, Iemitsu Tokugawa, renovated the existing complex of shrines. This includes 55 buildings, such as the nationally treasured Yomeimon Gate, constructed with substantial investments by master craftsmen.

Each building is lacquered and painted, with columns adorned with numerous sculptures. These magnificent and luxurious structures are undoubtedly the highlights of this tourist destination. Reflecting its significance, it was designated a World Cultural Heritage site in December 1999.

Nikko Toshogu is a great day trip from Tokyo and easily reachable by train. From Asakusa or Kitasenju, take the Tobu Line for a scenic two-hour ride. Alternatively, from JR Shinjuku, you can board a limited express train that connects with the Tobu Railway.

At Tobu-Nikko Station, find bus stop 2B to catch the "World Heritage Site Tour Bus," which takes you to the Omotesando stop near the shrine in 10 minutes. The fare is 350 yen for adults and 180 yen for children.

Be cautious when disembarking the train to avoid confusion. To see more of the Nikko area, consider the NIKKO PASS (details below).

After a short walk from the bus stop, you will find an ishitorii, a stone gate at the entrance of the shrine. Further inside, you will find the reception desk on the left side of the front gate.

First, you'll need to buy a ticket: it's 1,600 yen for adults and high school students, and 550 yen for elementary and middle school students.

You can purchase your ticket from the automatic vending machines, which support English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese. Besides cash, you can also use Suica and PASMO travel cards for payment.

The reception desk offers an audio guide for 500 yen. This guide provides details on 29 buildings along the route and includes famous quotes from Ieyasu.

It's available in Chinese, English, and Japanese, making it easy for foreign visitors to use. We highly recommend it for those looking to deepen their knowledge of Nikko Toshogu.

You can get the guide in front of the front gate.

They will hand over this kind of equipment, so insert the headphone and start using the guide.

This five-storied pagoda, recognized as an important cultural asset, stands to the left beyond the stone torii gate. It is renowned for its impressive height of 35 meters, striking red color, and elaborate decorations.

Originally dedicated in 1650, the pagoda was destroyed by fire in 1815. The current structure was rebuilt in 1818 using construction techniques from the late Edo period, allowing it to withstand vibrations from earthquakes and wind.

During the autumn season, you can marvel at the sight of its beauty as the red color of the five-storied pagoda harmonizes with the red leaves.

Shinkyusha/Sanzaru can be found to the left beyond the front gate. The name "Shinkyusha" refers to a stable for sacred horses that serve the deities. During Ieyasu's enshrinement, his horse was considered sacred.

Between the structures, you'll find eight whimsical monkey sculptures that whimsically depict various aspects of human existence. These sculptures are based on the ancient belief that monkeys protect the well-being of horses.

Among these enchanting figures, the trio known as Sanzaru stands out prominently. Representing the principles of "see no evil, speak no evil, and hear no evil," these charming sculptures feature three monkeys, each covering their eyes, mouth, and ears with their tiny hands, embodying this timeless adage.

Keychain charms and straps featuring the Sanzaru are also sold nearby. The monkeys on these souvenirs are undeniably cute.

Yomeimon is regarded as the symbol of Toshogu Shrine. With a towering height of 11 meters, the sight of its gorgeous appearance featuring 508 sculptures and gold leaves will surely take your breath away.

Even small places have several sculptures. Its timeless beauty never ceases to astound people, which is why it's referred to as the "Higurashi-no-mon" which means a gate with captivating beauty.

This location also offers a picture-perfect spot. If your group has fewer than 10 people, the staff will gladly take photos for you at no charge using your own camera or smartphone. Capture a memorable photo with this iconic gate.

Go through Yomeimon, pass through the east corridor leading to the rear shrine on the right, and you will find the Nemuri-neko. This is the second most popular sculpture next to Sanzaru. As what its name suggests, the sculpture is of a sleeping cat.

The sculpture is surprisingly small, so most people miss it. Be sure to keep an eye for this sculpture.

While sculptures of sleeping cats are a rare sight in Buddhist temples in Japan, one theory suggests that the sculpture of the sleeping cat bathing in sunlight was named after Nikko. Rumor has it that this sculpture was made by the famous Edo-era sculptor, Goro Sakuma, but there are also other theories.

Situated in front of Yomeimon is the main shrine, the most important part of Nikko Toshogu Shrine. It comprises the inner sanctuary, the connecting stone pavement, and the hall of worship. The main shrine hosts several festivals throughout the year.

While photography is unfortunately not permitted here, we can assure you that its beauty rivals that of Yomeimon. The shrine's dazzling and intricate decorations are undeniably national treasures. Visitors can explore the main shrine by heading towards the Karamon, or Chinese-style gate, and removing their shoes on the right side. You might want to plan your visit during one of the festivals for an even more special experience.

To get to Tokugawa Ieyasu's tomb, you have to pass through the Sakashitamon, where you can find the Nemuri-neko, and go through a long road and steps made of stone.

The stone staircase consists of 207 steps that climb a steep slope.

Climbing up the steps is surely not an easy task, so if you're not physically fit, it would be best for you to take your time. Pay attention to your feet as it is slippery on rainy days.

Along the way, you’ll come across a sign featuring words of wisdom from Tokugawa Ieyasu: "Life is like walking along a long road shouldering a heavy load; there is no need to hurry." Keep these words in mind as you ascend the steps, and you’ll gain a new perspective.

Once you arrive to the summit, the sight of the rear shrine’s hall of worship will greet you. Tour around the place while you take a breather.

Want to know your fortune? Try the omikuji (written fortune; 100 yen each) available in English.

Proceed further and you will find Tokugawa Ieyasu's tomb and the rear shrine's two-storied tower. This dignified structure rests on five octagonal stone steps and three octagonal bronze steps. It exudes an unexplainable solemn atmosphere.

As you walk around the tower, you will find a 600-year-old cedar called “Kanae-sugi”. Rumor has it that, your wishes will come true if you recite them as you approach the small shrine, so be sure to drop by here.

On the left side of Yomeimon, you'll find the Yakushido (Honchido), located within the Toshogu Shrine but under the jurisdiction of Rinnoji Temple.

Here, you can encounter the famous "Crying Dragon," a dragon painted on the ceiling. At first glance, it appears to be a regular dragon painting, but when you strike the wooden clappers beneath it, you'll hear what sounds like the dragon's roar. This roar is actually a reverberation caused by the interaction between the floor and ceiling.

The ceiling, adorned with the dragon, has dents that make it difficult for sound to dissipate, resulting in this unique noise. Photography is prohibited, but this spot is a must-visit within Nikko Toshogu Shrine.

Explanations are available not only in Japanese but also in several foreign languages, so be sure to drop by and hear the dragon's roar yourself. Yakushido also sells a beautiful charm called "Suzunari Tatsumori," which produces a bell-like sound. Priced at 1000 yen each, the charm is available in eight colors such as red, green, and purple. It is said to bring luck and grant wishes, so why not pick one up?

That concludes our list of the best photo spots around Nikko Toshogu Shrine.

Exploring all these locations will take approximately two hours, so we suggest taking your time to fully enjoy each spot. In addition to the ones we mentioned, you'll also find the Nikko Toshogu Museum and the Nikko Toshogu Art Museum just outside the shrine's vicinity, as well as several restaurants and souvenir shops nearby.

If you're looking for more to do, Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura is about a 40-minute free bus ride away. Be sure to check out our article for more details when planning your trip to Nikko.