Kishu Toshogu Shrine

Wakayama

Visual & Performing Arts

Shrines & Temples

# Shrine

# Art

# Tokugawa Ieyasu

# Important Cultural Property

The approach to Kishu Toshogu Shrine, showing the richly colored, ornate temple building behind a red fence and stone lanterns.

The two-story Romon Gate of Kishu Toshogu, showing its dark tiled roof, red framework, and a view of the sea through the gate opening.

Interior of the Kishu Toshogu Shrine Haiden (Worship Hall), showing detailed, colorful carvings on the ceiling beams and four large black panels with gold accents.

The long, steep stone staircase (Otoko-zaka) leading up through the forest to the brightly colored Romon Gate of Kishu Toshogu Shrine.

An ornate red and black gate (likely a rōmon or entrance gate) of Kishū Tōshō-gū Shrine, framed by open doors and featuring intricate carvings.

Key Points

Explore a historic shrine founded in 1621 by Tokugawa Yorinobu, son of Tokugawa Ieyasu
Admire the magnificent early Edo-era architecture and art from the Kano and Tosa schools
Is designated as a National Important Cultural Property

Kishu Toshogu Shrine, located in Wakayama City, was founded in 1621 by Tokugawa Yorinobu, the first lord of the Kishu Domain. It was established to enshrine his father, Tokugawa Ieyasu, and to serve as the guardian deity of the Nankaido region (Wakayama and Shikoku regions), praying for national peace. Today, Tokugawa Yorinobu is also enshrined here. The shrine is a premier example of early Edo period construction, retaining the lavish architectural style characteristic of the Azuchi Momoyama period (1573–1603).
The main hall, situated atop 108 stone steps, features elaborate carvings attributed to the legendary craftsman Hidari Jingoro. Inside, the walls are decorated with brilliant paintings from both the Kano and Tosa schools, two major schools of Japanese painting, while the vermilion-lacquered tower gate stands as a magnificent entryway.
Today, Kishu Toshogu Shrine is designated a National Important Cultural Property and is known locally as “gongen-san.” Visitors can ascend the historic steps to offer prayers for wish fulfillment, healing, and traffic safety.

Information

Spot information including address, access, and website
Address	2-1-20 Wakauranishi, Wakayama City, Wakayama
Access from Tokyo	(1) From Tokyo Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen Nozomi to Shin-Osaka Station (approx. 2 hr 30 min). (2) At Shin-Osaka Station, transfer to the Limited Express Kuroshio to Wakayama Station (approx. 1 hr 2 min). (3) From Wakayama Station, walk to the Jr Wakayama STA. bus stop (approx. 2 minutes). (4) From Jr Wakayama STA. bus stop, take the Wakayamashiuchi Line [24] bus (bound for Shin Wakaura) to Gongen Mae (approx. 27 min). (5) From Gongen Mae, walk to the Kishu Toshogu Shrine (approx. 2 minutes). Show route from Tokyo Station
Website	https://www.kishutoshogu.org/multilingual/guide-top.html