[2024 Nikko Attraction] Travel Guide for Nikko Toshogu Shrine (Updated Nov)

A Deep Dive into the History and Art of Nikko Toshogu Shrine

As one of Japan's most important shrines, Nikko Toshogu, located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder and first shogun of the Edo period. Walking into this shrine, I could feel its profound history and culture. Built in 1617 and completed in 1636, the shrine is renowned for its splendid architecture, intricate carvings, and rich decorative arts. Its design incorporates elements of both Shinto and Buddhism, showcasing the pinnacle of Japanese architecture of the time. At Toshogu, I was particularly captivated by the following features: - Yomeimon Gate: Known for its exquisite carvings and golden decorations, this gate is a significant entrance to the shrine and never fails to amaze me each time I see it. - Elaborate Carvings: The shrine's interior carvings, including the famous 'Sleeping Cat' (Neko) and 'Monkey' (Sarutahiko), embody the essence of traditional Japanese art, deeply immersing me in the cultural heritage. - Five-Story Pagoda: This pagoda is part of Nikko Toshogu and showcases exquisite architectural skills, with each level reminding me of the craftsmanship spirit of that era. Nikko Toshogu was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, attracting numerous visitors. I also found a moment of peace here, experiencing the unique culture and history, as if traveling back to that glorious era.

Ginzan Onsen

Limited winter scenery in Japan❄Ginzan Onsen➕Zao Tree Ice Two Days|||Friends who didn't go to Ginzan Onsen and Zao Tree Ice last year👀Don't miss it this year🌿Must check in for winter travel in Japan‼️Experience the Taisho romance in the fairy tale world —— 【Ginzan Onsen➕Zao Tree Ice Two Day Tour】 🎡Itinerary 🎈DAY1 🔹8:00 Depart from Tokyo 🔹10:30 Tochigi Toshogu 🔹17:00 Ginzan Onsen 🔹19:20 Yamagata/Zao Onsen Hotel 🎈DAY2 🔹9:00 Depart from the hotel 🔹9:30 Zao Tree Ice 🔹14:00 Zao Fox Village 🔹20:00 Arrive in Tokyo ——

Discover amazing Nikko Toshogu Shrine

#fallishere It’s was such an amazing experience when we visited this historical site . Many beautiful heritage buildings and tree around the area, it will be wonderful when you visiting during autumn. The whole place will change into the colors of falls! Natural colors was added to the historical site . It required ticket to enter to the site our ticket including in the tour . Suggest you to take tour package to visit here as out of town area . Lovely place to visit highly recommended ! 👍🏻 #awesomepic #couplestrip

Autumn in Nikko Toshogu 🍂🍁

Nikko Toshogu Shrine - The most renowned shrine of “the Shrines and Temples of Nikko”-a UNESCO world heritage site where Ieyasu Tokugawa, the great Shogun who started the Edo Period, is enshrined. Most of the shrine complex you see today was rebuilt in 17th century. The shrine contains 55 buildings including 8 national treasures and 34 listed buildings. The highlights are many colorful buildings which are richly decorated with gorgeous carvings. Do not miss the symbol of peace “Sleeping Cat”, and the “Three Monkeys” with the “see no evil, hear no evil and speak no evil” poses! It was already closed when we got there so we didn't see what's inside. We went in November, most of the leaves fell. Best time to experience autumn in Nikko is prolly October. It's extremely cold in Nikko so just be ready. Location: 2301 Sannai, Nikko-city, Tochigi Prefecture #helloautumn

hunter mountain

#christmasgiveaway

When I hear a place described using the words “best” or “most”, I become skeptical of the claim. Sometimes I’m even disappointed upon visiting, since not every place warrants such high praise. However, that was not the case with Nikko Toshogu Shrine- it absolutely lives up to the hype of being called Japan’s most lavishly decorated shrine. Once you’re at the foot of Sakashita-mon Gate, get ready to climb a flight of 207 stone steps within the tranquil forest backdrop until you reach the tomb of Ieyasu. While the climb may seem daunting, Nikko’s stunning natural surroundings make the trek to the tomb more than worth it. #givethanks #givethanks

Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Tochigi/Nikko

Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, and is also registered as a World Heritage site. It is a famous tourist spot with high historical and cultural value, known for its luxurious and splendid architecture and carvings, especially the 'Sleeping Cat' and the 'Three Monkeys'. ◆Visiting Hours April 1 - October 31 (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM) November 1 - March 31 (9:00 AM to 4:00 PM) *Note: Reception ends 30 minutes before closing time in each period. ◆Access ・By Train Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko (Limited Express Kegon): Approx. 1 hour 50 minutes Asakusa to Shimo-Imaichi to Tobu-Nikko (Limited Express Kinu + Local Train): Approx. 1 hour 50 minutes Asakusa to Tobu-Nikko (Tobu Railway Rapid): Approx. 2 hours 5 minutes Shinjuku to Tobu-Nikko (JR Limited Express Nikko): Approx. 2 hours Utsunomiya to Nikko (JR Nikko Line): Approx. 45 minutes ・By Car From the Utsunomiya IC on the Tohoku Expressway, take the Nikko Utsunomiya Road and exit at the Nikko IC. It is 2 km from the Nikko IC.

Nikko's Top Tourist Attraction, Nikko Toshogu Shrine!

Location: Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture Address: 〒321-1431 Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko City, Sannai 2301 How to get there: Take the Spacia X or Kegon Limited Express from Asakusa for 2 hours, then take a bus from Tobu-Nikko Station for 10 minutes (get off at Yasukawa stop) Features: A shrine complex dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, spread out in a vast forest area Rating: 5.0/5.0 When traveling to Nikko, this is a must-visit attraction along with Kegon Falls. Its vast scale and unique atmosphere nestled in the forest attract many visitors. It's also great to visit nearby attractions like Shinkyo Bridge, Akechidaira Observatory, Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and Kinugawa Onsen. Highly recommended!!

Golden Intricate Temple in Nikko

After numerous trips to Japan, temple could turn a mundane theme (just like many other traditional palaces in Korea/China). But this one was different. The UNESCO World Heritage title aside, this series of temples feature intricate architectural ornamentations, whose style and color are not common among most of the other famous Japanese temples. #nikko I was here in the summer, I believe it would only look 10times prettier in the autumn or winter.

To the spot Nikko 🇯🇵

#japantrip Nikko is well-known for its natural beauty, from verdant forests, rolling hills and breathtaking waterfalls to raging rivers, streams and a beautiful lake. Among them, Nikko Toshogu is one of the popular tourist attraction because of its historic site. It has a history of over 400 years, and enshrines Lord Tokugawa Ieyasu, who founded the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1603 that brought peace to Japan for 265 years. Toshogu Shrine is a magnificent memorial to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, which ruled Japan for over 250 years until 1868. Ieyasu is enshrined at Toshogu as the deity Tosho Daigongen, "Great Deity of the East Shining Light". As the burial site of Japan's military hero Ieyasu Tokugawa, the Toshogu has had a significant influence on Japan's history and culture. From Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, the World Heritage tour bus makes stops at Nikko's UNESCO sites, including Nikko Toshogu Shrine. The ride takes about 15 minutes. #japan #nikko

Shuttling through time, the thousand-year story of Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple

As the morning light first appears, the outline of Nikko Toshogu Shrine gradually becomes clear. 🌅 Located in Tochigi Prefecture, this temple is not only a religious sanctuary but also a microcosm of Japanese culture and history. 🏯✨ Stepping into it feels like traveling through time, back to an era where samurais and monks coexisted. Visiting in autumn, the mountains are covered with maple leaves that look like burning flames, adding a touch of poetry to the ancient buildings. 🍁 Walking along the paths of Rinnoji Temple, every step is in rhythm with the fallen leaves, feeling the tranquility and beauty brought by the changing seasons. 🍃 Nikko Toshogu Shrine is not just a temple; it is also the resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The story of this great shogun has been passed down here for centuries. 👘📜 Every carving and mural tells of past glories and honors, inspiring awe and respect. Here, you can hear the chanting carried by the wind, see the devout figures of worshippers, and feel a sense of tranquility and harmony that transcends the mundane. ⛩️ Whether sitting in meditation or participating in local festivals, one can find spiritual purification. 🎎 Finally, don't forget to taste the local cuisine, making this trip not only a feast for the eyes and soul but also a delight for the taste buds. 🍜 Nikko Toshogu Shrine awaits every traveler, using its unique charm to leave you with unforgettable memories. 🌟

Nikko: Experience the Solemn Atmosphere at Nikko Toshogu Shrine.

Overview: - Nikko Toshogu Shrine boasts top-class popularity in the Nikko area. - The grand and ornate decorations crafted during the Edo period are impressive. - As a particularly popular spot, be mindful of the crowds. Description: Nikko Toshogu Shrine is one of the components of the World Heritage site 'Shrines and Temples of Nikko', celebrated for its magnificent buildings and various elements. The delicate yet majestic and beautiful structures, which are hard to believe were built in the Edo period, are highly recommended for a thorough visit. However, due to its popularity, the site can be very crowded, so please be cautious about the timing of your visit. Access: From any Nikko station, take the bus bound for 'Chuzenji Onsen' or 'Yumoto Onsen' and get off at 'Omotesando', which is right by the shrine.

Gilded Grandeur: Nikkō Tōshō-gū Shrine Awe-Inspires!

#japantrip My visit to Nikkō Tōshō-gū Shrine was a jaw-dropping experience! This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Japanese architecture, with opulent decorations and intricate carvings that left me speechless. The shrine's striking gold leaf adornments glimmered in the sunlight, creating a sense of majesty and reverence. As I explored the sprawling complex, I discovered tranquil gardens, ancient artifacts, and historic relics, each telling a story of Japan's rich cultural heritage. The sheer scale and beauty of this Shinto shrine is humbling, and its designation as a National Treasure is well-deserved. If you're seeking a glimpse into Japan's spiritual and artistic soul, Nikkō Tōshō-gū Shrine is an absolute must-visit!

🏯 Unveiling the Splendor of Toshogu Shrine 🌸🍃

#cherryblossom2024 ✨ Toshogu Shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its intricate architecture, vibrant colors, and beautiful natural surroundings. It is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, and is one of the most important cultural landmarks in Japan. 🥰 Here's a guide to help you make the most of your visit! 1️⃣ Yomeimon Gate: 🕒 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM ⏳ Duration of Visit: Approximately 20-30 minutes 🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds 💰 Price: ¥1,300 2️⃣ Honjido Hall: 🕒 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM ⏳ Duration of Visit: Around 15 minutes 🌸 Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a tranquil experience 💰 Price: ¥550 3️⃣ Shinkyusha Sacred Stable: 🕒 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM ⏳ Duration of Visit: Approximately 10 minutes 🌸 Best Time to Visit: Anytime during the day 💰 Price: ¥300 4️⃣ Taiyuin Mausoleum: 🕒 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM ⏳ Duration of Visit: Around 30-45 minutes 🌸 Best Time to Visit: Spring for cherry blossoms or autumn for colorful foliage 💰 Price: ¥550 5️⃣ Five-Story Pagoda: 🕒 Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM ⏳ Duration of Visit: Approximately 10-15 minutes 🌸 Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening for serene atmosphere 💰 Price: ¥300 Remember to explore the beautiful gardens, stone lanterns, and other structures throughout the shrine complex. 🌳🏮 #ToshoguShrine #Nikko #Japantrip

Nikkō Tōshogū

#cherryblossom2024 Nikkō Tōshogū The most decorated Shinto shrine that is also a National Treasure in Japan. There are several shrines in the area but Toshogu is the most popular one. It can be accessed locally from Tokyo using the Tobu Nikko line. You just need to go there to see how beautiful it is. Give yourself at meast 1.5 hrs to visit Toshogu calmly. You can buy the ticket from the station or directly from the temple. Same price only for 1300¥ as of today. You can also walk from the station to the shrine for around 40 mins. It is worth the walk since you will see a bit of Nikko's city with a mountainous background.

Exploring Nikko Toshogu shrine 🙏

#cherryblossom2024 Toshogu Nikko shrine is one of the UNESCO heritage site for its famous sculptures of Hidari Jingoro. The art of his masterpieces are popular and legendary. Toshogu and Nikko's other shrines and temples are located a 30-40 minute walk or 10 minute bus ride (350 yen one way, 600 yen day pass, covered by the Nikko Passes) from Tobu and JR Nikko stations. Hours 9:00 to 17:00 (until 16:00 from November to March) Admission ends 30 minutes before closing Closed No closing days Admission 1300 yen (shrine), 1000 yen (museum), 2100 yen (shrine and museum) #Toshogu #Nikko #Japan

Travelogue of Toshogu Shrine

Toshogu Shrine in Nikko is a shrine located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. It is the head shrine of Toshogu, and the main deity enshrined is Toshogu Daigongen (Tokugawa Ieyasu). Toshogu Shrine in Nikko, Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, and Senba Toshogu Shrine are collectively referred to as the 'Three Great Toshogu Shrines in Japan'. Toshogu Shrine in Nikko was established in the third year of Genna (1617) to commemorate Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Edo Shogunate. There are many animal wood carvings in the shrine, symbolizing peace, among which the 'Three Monkeys' and the 'Sleeping Cat' are the most famous. In December of the 11th year of Heisei (1999), the 'Shrines and Temples of Nikko' including Toshogu Shrine in Nikko were listed as World Cultural Heritage.

Japan Travel | World Cultural Heritage - Nikko Toshogu Shrine

Coming to Nikko is to see the World Cultural Heritage - Nikko Toshogu Shrine, built to commemorate Tokugawa Ieyasu. It rained for two days, and climbing the shrine in the rain was quite a physical test. Because it was the weekend, there were people and umbrellas everywhere, making me feel like I was in the domestic Golden Week in a second. This 250 RMB scenic spot only accepts cash, is it worth it? Yes. There are monks explaining at the place where the dragon roars, and I saw the statue of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the three monkeys, and the sleeping cat, which have also been made into various peripherals. The most beautiful place requires you to take off your shoes and enter, and no photos are allowed. Fortunately, I saw a couple holding a traditional wedding, and there was live accompaniment. The five-story pagoda charges separately, 300 yen, and there was no time to go to the treasure museum. Before coming to Toshogu Shrine, you will pass the Shinkyo Bridge, the ticket is 300 yen, only cash is accepted, and large-denomination banknotes are not accepted. It's just standing on the bridge and taking a look, not worth it.

Fufu Nikko Royal Territory Private Feng Lu Fresh Taste

🍁 With the magnificent mountains and pure water sources blessed by nature in all four seasons, and adjacent to the Nikko Tamozawa Memorial Park, Fufu Nikko is located here. Overlooking the vibrant trees of Nikko, feeling the breeze, and feeling the history of Nikko in a nostalgic and elegant atmosphere✨ - 【Fufu Nikko】 🛌 Only 24 suites, mainly in Japanese style, with modern decoration style as a supplement, the two are perfectly integrated, a large amount of log furniture looks harmonious and comfortable, the original spring flower fragrance is refreshing 🛁 The private soup in each room uses the same natural hot spring as the exclusive source of this museum, and YOKOU organic washing and care products rejuvenate the skin after the hot spring🎎 🛋 The room types are divided into simple suites, comfortable suites, enjoyable suites, noble suites, Fufu luxury corner suites and Fufu luxury noble suites - 【🍱Unique Flavor】 🍣 Japanese Cuisine 'Jiezhong': Kaiseki full meal uses the three major delicacies in Japan and the world, cleverly blending Japanese and Western styles; facing the beautiful riverside and dense forest, presented with the royal porcelain kiln of Japan, the bowls are transparent, the cups and plates are gold-plated, showing the luxury of Nikko Holy Land 🍳 Teppanyaki 'Hou': Created by the chef's ingenuity and exquisite skills, the full set of delicious dishes like a palace is sure to make you feast 🍵 Fufu Leisure Hall: Enjoy original black tea and 24 solar term themed afternoon tea, drink champagne in the evening, and the Bar open until midnight, different highlights at different times 🍙 Breakfast: Made with selected high-quality ingredients from Tochigi Prefecture, open the food box like a beautiful gift, and taste the joy brought by local rich ingredients - 【♨️Tamozawa Hot Spring】 ♨️ The alkaline Tamozawa hot spring is a gentle and low-stimulus national hot spring that anyone can safely bathe in. It has the effects of calming and helping sleep, cleaning pore dirt, etc., feeling the cold wind and warm hot spring, and troubles go away🌪 🌊 In addition to the private soup, there are open-air baths and outdoor baths in the museum. The natural hot spring is introduced into the hotel through the exclusive spring source, and soaking in the gentle hot spring is like bathing in nature - 【🌈Exclusive Experience】 🙏 Nikko Toshogu Shrine: The shrine where Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined, at the least crowded time, the exclusive guide leads guests to visit the most gorgeous and sacred 'General's Room' that is not open to the public 💦 Rimi Waterfall: Put on a diving suit and slide down the valley with the cool water flow. The exciting natural water slide and pool allow you to experience the unity of nature 🏯 Nikko Mountain Rurikoji: Have a mental experience focused on yourself in the World Heritage Site, get away from troubles, empty your mind, and examine yourself. Listen to the abbot's preaching and experience private meditation 🚴 Cycling Tour: Ride a bicycle through Nikko town and World Heritage, feel the fresh mountains and gurgling water 🏄 Chuzenji Lake Walking and Boating: Stroll in the undeveloped forest by Chuzenji Lake, experience single boating

Here is Nikko Toushougu in Tochigi prefecture. Temple of Tokugawa Ieyasu .

The Stone Gate and the Five-Storied Pagoda

The tori gate in front of the shrine dates from 1618. After passing through the Tori Gate, you will see the Five-Storied Pagoda. The first Five-Storied Pagoda was built in 1648 but was destroyed by fire in 1815. The current pagoda dates from 1818 and is an Important Cultural Property. Getting there: Take the World Heritage Sightseeing bus from bus stop 1B outside JR Nikko Station or 2B outside Tobu Nikko Station. You have to do a lot of walking if you miss the bus. This place is a nice fall getaway tho. #falltrip #nikko #fallingforfall #tourism #tochigi

nikko beautyful

This shrine is said to be the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who is the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. This shrine is already a part of the Nikko UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For me, I am very impressed with how detailed and how high quality the artifacts and the displays in the shrine. The whole place is well-preserved. Ticket is for ¥2100, both for the shrine and the museum. #wintergetaway

In Japan, there is such a famous saying "Sunlight sees the structure of rumors", which means: If you travel, if you do not go to the sun, you feel a lot worse. daylight, famous for its exquisite carving art and magnificent autumn scenery, it is famous in Japan, so the first stop we left in Tokyo was to go to Toshogu Shrine. The Toshogu Shrine has a Vermilion Bridge, which is a holy place of daylight. It is owned by the Wakayama Shrine and is listed as a World Cultural Heritage. This bridge was built as early as the end of the Nara era, and is known as the "Three Great Bridges of Japan" in Jinkou Bridge in Yamaguchi Prefecture and the Bridge in Yamanashi Prefecture. The flowing water under the bridge is glowing with different colors under the sunlight, so it is beautiful. Tongzhao Palace is also very popular on weekdays. Here you can enjoy the most exquisite woodwork carving art from the Edo period in Japan. What impressed me is that the three claws are carved on the wooden beams. Monkeys covering their mouths, eyes, and ears, which are taken from the Analects of Confucius, "Gentlemen are indecent, indecent, and innocent." Even the Guardian pendants here are the three cute little monkeys.

Nikko is a small city, but it has a place to visit in the West, the famous world heritage site of Toshogu. Toshogu Shrine is located in Nikko National Park and was built more than 400 years ago. It is the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, which created the Japanese Shogun era. The palace was presided over by Hideyoshi, the second generation of Tokugawa Ieyasu. He chose the location of the mausoleum next to the Nikko Eryuyama Shrine and the Shiwang Temple, which has a thousand-year history. Before entering the Nikko Mountain, you must first pass the "Two Wild Mountain Bridge". Legend has it that the two people in love can walk together through the bridge and live a happy life.

"Nikko Toshogu" is the most famous of Japan's representative world heritage. How to say it, that is because "Sunshine Toshogu" is a shrine dedicated to Sasakawa. There are now many temples rebuilt in 1636, the 3rd generation of the generals, "Yong Yongda". There are 8 national treasures and 34 important cultural assets in the territory. There are a total of 55 buildings. The gorgeous and delicate decoration and luxurious construction are the essence of the entire Toshogu Shrine. It is said that there are more than 5,000 ornaments. Yongda replaced the outstanding architects of Japan and used the colors and paintings of the building to make a clever use. The biggest feature is that many carvings can be seen on the pillars.

Gwangwon Palace is a shrine dedicated to the founder of Japan, the founder of the Edo shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu. It was built in 1617 and was later re-emerged as a result of the three generations of generals. A splendid temple of luxury. All the buildings have been designated as Japanese national treasures and important cultural property. In December 1999, the Toshogu Shrine was included, and the "Temple of Nikko" was registered as a World Heritage Site. After Tokugawa Ieyasu took office, he used force to break through the territory of various warlords and unify all of Japan. After his death, he was honored as the patron saint of the Edo shogunate, and the shrine was called Toshogu. In ancient Chinese culture, there is a saying that "indecent assault, indecent assault, indecent assault", this custom has also been passed to Japan, and Japanese is seeing (not watching)

The five-storey tower is the standard for all Toshogu. If you have been to Tokyo, Ueno Toshogu must have seen similar buildings. The five-storey tower is actually the same size of each layer, mainly for snow protection (so that the snow is on the top floor, and it is only necessary to repair the top layer). Yes, this is also a Chinese voice commentary. If you don't know much about Toshogu, it is recommended to borrow one, 500 yen. It is also okay to share the two. The two elephants are interesting. It is said that the Japanese did not see the real elephant at that time, and they were drawn through various written descriptions and their own imaginations. I vaguely feel a little bit. . . This artist must have seen the pigs. . Look, the dragon painted by the Japanese has a tail~~The mysterious style that we dont see at the end of our dragons~

When it comes to Japan's world cultural heritage, people will think of Kyoto and Nara for the first time, but in fact, the daylight is not much smaller than those places. This is the pioneer of the shogunate era, the place where Tokugawa Ieyasu is sleeping, this Japan The greatest generals in history have conquered the princes of all parties and unified the neon, ushered in a long-lasting peace for Japan, which provided a better social environment for the development of the feudal economy than the manor system. After his death, he was given the title of "Dong Zhao Da Shen" by the Emperor, and was buried here by his grandson Tokugawa. Out of respect for Tokugawa Ieyasu, the Japanese always love to worship here, and pray for good weather and good fortune in the DPRK; the clothmakers pray for a smooth career and happiness. The shrine is a long pilgrimage. From a long distance, you can see the plaque of the Toshogu Shrine at the entrance. It is simple and solemn. The golden three-leaf sunflower is the emblem of the Tokugawa family. In Japan, in addition to the symbol of the Emperor's sixteen petals, only the Tokugawa family's three-leaf emblem can appear in the shrine. There are many wood carvings in the Dongzhao Palace, the most famous of which is the three-monkey carvings that represent the Buddhist wisdom and rumors of "no evil, no evil, no evil, no evil". Since ancient times, in China, monkeys have been regarded as horse doctors, and there is a loud nickname "()", so the ancients used to use the pattern of monkeys on the stables to avoid disasters. The Japanese also learned this.