TOCHIGI

Nikko Toshogu

Witness the Ornate Beauty of Nikko Toshogu

Enter a spiritual world filled with natural beauty, lavish detailing, and vibrant coloring.

Culture & Arts Temples & Shrines Nature & Views

An architectural and artistic feat that must be seen to be believed.

Nikko Toshogu Shrine is the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder and first Shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The shrine is renowned for its collection of ornately designed structures and today, is part of the Shrines and Temples of Nikko UNESCO World Heritage site.
When you first approach the torii gate, a stunning five-story pagoda will greet you. The structure’s vermillion exterior interwoven with blue, green, and gold detailing creates an awe-inspiring sight. Past the entrance stands the Sacred Horse's stable where you will find Three Wise Monkeys carvings depicting the proverb, “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil."

Located towards the back of the shrine grounds is the famous Yomeimon gate that epitomizes the shrine's intricacy and beauty. This one-of-a-kind structure features hundreds of detailed carvings, elaborate coloring, and golden accents. Powerful dragon carvings decorate the front, reminding passersby of the shrine’s sacredness.
Beyond Yomeimon, climb a staircase through the forest to Tokugawa Ieyasu's tomb. In contrast to the shrine’s opulence, the subdued appearance of the tomb conveys a humble message and exudes a tranquil atmosphere.

Nikko Toshogu is recognised for its high level of artistry and seamless integration into nature. The shrine epitomizes Edo period (1603-1868) architecture related to shrines and temples and today, is still used as a sacred site for religious rituals and traditional practices. Encircled by Tochigi’s lush nature, Nikko Toshogu’s complex features a main area where most of the shrine structures are located, the Toshogu Art Museum and Shrine Office to the east, and Tokugawa Ieyasu's mausoleum to the north. Located before the first torii gate are the Toshogu Treasure Museum, which exhibits historic relics related to Tokugawa Ieyasu, and the Butokuden, an active martial arts training hall.For additional information, you can pick up a handheld audio guide—available in Japanese, English, and Chinese—at the visitor reception building past the first torii.

Nikko Toshogu

Nikko Toshogu is about a 30-minute walk or 10-15-minute bus ride (via the World Heritage Sightseeing bus) from both JR Nikko and Nikko Tobu Stations. Visit the shrine yourself and discover why it is one of Nikko’s most popular destinations!

Address

Nikko Toshogu

2301 Sannai, Nikko City, Tochigi 321-1431

Phone number

'+81 288-54-0560

Business hours

April - October: 9:00–17:00
November - March: 9:00–16:00
Admission ends 30 minutes before closing

WEB site

Nikko City Tourism Association

Digital Map