Top 5 most beautiful temples and shrines in Nikko

Toshogu enshrines Ieyasu Tokugawa, the first Shogun who established the Edo Shogunate. There are many highlights including the extravagantly decorated Yomemon gate, and the decorative carvings known as the Sleeping Cat and the Three Wise Monkeys.

This temple that was built by Shodo Shoin, the first to priest to explore Mount Nikko. The temple worships Mount Nantai as a god and continues to keep guard over Mount Nikko.

Taiyuinbyo is the grave of the third Shogun (military governor) of the Tokugawa dynasty, Iemitsu Tokugawa. He truly respected his grandfather, Ieyasu Tokugawa, and wrote in his will that he will “continue to serve Ieyasu even in death.”

Founded by Shodo Shonin more than 1,200 years ago, the entire area of Nikko has served as a place for worship. Rinnoji is also known for its unique and intriguing ceremony called “Gohanshiki”. *The temple’s main hall, Sanbutsudo, is currently undergoing “the great repair of the Heisei period.” Until 2020, visitors will be able to have the unique and valuable experience of looking down into the main hall from above.

Chuzenji Temple is popular for its good luck in romantic fulfillment in areas such as matchmaking and prevention of affairs. Lake Chuzenji in Nikko National Park can be viewed from the temple.