[Nikko Toshogu Shrine | Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture "A World Heritage Shrine Where Historical Romance and Artistic Beauty Combine"]

[Nikko Toshogu Shrine | Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture "A World Heritage Shrine Where Historical Romance and Artistic Beauty Blend"] — Enshrining Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo shogunate, Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a prestigious shrine registered as a World Heritage Site. ⛩️✨ The gorgeous architecture, decorated with gold and brilliant colors, and the quietly stretching rows of cedar trees create a space that is truly otherworldly. Packed with attractions, this is a relaxing place for history buffs and art lovers alike. 🍃 📍 [Access] ・Address: 2301 Yamauchi, Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture ・Nearest Station: JR/Tobu Nikko Station → Approximately 10 minutes by bus, get off at "Nishi-sando" bus stop, then a 5-minute walk. ・By Car: Approximately 10 minutes from Nikko IC / Parking available. 🅿️ ⏰ [Visiting Hours] ・8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Until 4:00 PM from November to March) ・Open year-round 🎫 [Admission Fee] ・Adults and High School Students: ¥1,600 (Set tickets including the Treasure Museum are also available) ・Elementary and Middle School Students: ¥450 ⸻ 🌟 [Highlights] • Yomeimon Gate → Also known as the "Higurashi Gate," this beautiful gate is a must-see. ✨ It's best to take your time to look at the details. • Three Wise Monkeys (See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil) 🐵 → A famous sculpture with a moral lesson about watching over children's growth. • Sleeping Cat 🐈 → A small sculpture at the gate leading to Ieyasu's tomb, the Okumiya. Said to have been created by Hidari Jingorō. • Okumiya (Ieyasu's Tomb) ⛩️ → A place of silence with a sacred atmosphere, located at the end of a long staircase. ⸻ ✨Recommended Points • The scenery changes with the seasons → The autumn leaves and snowscapes are especially spectacular 🍁❄️ • Nearby are Nikko Futarasan Shrine and Rinnoji Temple, allowing you to enjoy a tour of the Nikko Sanzan Mountains ⛰️ • It's also famous as a power spot → Many people report feeling a sense of balance in mind and body 🔮 ⸻ 🎒 Tips • Comfortable walking shoes are essential! (The grounds are spacious and there are many stairs.) 👟 • The best time to take photos is early in the morning → The light is beautiful and there are fewer people around. 📸 • The amulet is a lucky charm that can be used to receive the divine blessings of Lord Ieyasu. ✨ • Enjoy the nearby Shinkyo Bridge and local delicacies like yuba (tofu skin) dishes and Nikko shaved ice. 😋 ⸻ #NikkoToshoguShrine #WorldHeritage #AbsolutelyFreeTrip