Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Nikko Toshogu Shrine, in the cedar forests of Tochigi Prefecture, is a richly decorated shrine complex dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period. Most of the current shrine buildings were reconstructed in 1636 by the third shogun, Iemitsu. The site beautifully showcases the pinnacle of early Edo-period art and architecture. The complex’s detailed, colorful carvings represent the Edo shogunate’s deep desire for peace and stability. Unlike many shrines, which emphasize more simplicity in their designs, Nikko Toshogu dazzles with gold leaf, bold colors, and intricate carvings, like the famed “Three Wise Monkeys,” and the tiny “Sleeping Cat”—a symbol of peace whose slumber allows sparrows carved on its back to play without fear—as it guards the path to Ieyasu’s tomb. These details, widely reproduced in Edo period art and souvenirs, turned the shrine into a cultural touchstone for sightseers.
During the Edo period, the Edo shogunate established a transportation network centered on Edo, including the Five Routes, as the foundation for his nationwide rule. One of these was the Nikko Kaido (Nikko Pilgrimage Route) leading to the shrine at Nikko. The journey from Edo to the shrine took several days on foot. Today, Nikko Toshogu Shrine remains a magnet for visitors, and it has been recognized as part of the Shrines and Temples of Nikko UNESCO World Heritage listing. Adjacent to Nikko Toshogu Shrine lie the expansive grounds of Futarasan Shrine and Rinno-ji Temple, so if you feel adventurous, you can spend a full day exploring Nikko’s sacred landscape. Just as in the Edo period, the combination of grand architecture, natural setting, and spiritual atmosphere makes Nikko Toshogu Shrine an especially impressive destination. There are also many spots along the route from the station to Nikko Toshogu Shrine where you can enjoy local specialties like yuba tofu skin.