Nikko Tosegu


Today Japan is a very popular tourist destination. This country is a unique combination of ancient traditions and modern technologies that attracts here every year a huge number of travelers of different ages from all over the world. Among the most beautiful places in Japan, the ancient Shinto shrine of Toshe in the city ​​of Nikko deserves special attention. About its history and features more read more.

Historical facts

The municipality of Nikko, located a couple of hours drive from Tokyo , is one of the oldest pilgrimage centers in Japan. The main local attraction is the temple of Toseg. It was founded at the beginning of the 17th century, during the reign of Tokugawa Hidetada, the son of the famous Prince Minamoto Tokugawa Ieyasu. Years later, the building was enlarged and enlarged in the square, and in 1999 the sanctuary of Tose in Nikko, like many other temples of the city, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What is interesting about the temple of Toseg in Nikko?

Tosegu in Nikko is interesting both in appearance and in an unusual interior. It is worth noting that 5 buildings on the territory of the temple belong to the category of National treasures of Japan and 3 more are considered important cultural values. The most attention of tourists is attracted by:

  1. The Yomei-mon Gate is one of the most luxurious structures in the sanctuary. A neat thread, made in bright colors, adorns the structure, and the very name Yōmeimon means "the gates of sunlight".
  2. The Sacred Stables - above the main entrance to the building depicts the traditional Chinese and Japanese symbol "Three Monkeys".
  3. The original 5-storey pagoda , donated to the temple in 1650 by one of the members of the Daimyo family. Each floor is a separate element: earth, fire, water, wind and ether. In the very center of the pagoda there is a special "shinbashira" post. It is needed to minimize damage during an earthquake.
  4. The grave of the commander Ieyasu , where the remains of his bronze urn are kept. Nearby are the ritual gates, torii, on which the words attributed to Emperor Go-Mizunoo are carved. You can walk to the sanctuary on the stone steps through the cedar forest.

Useful information for tourists

Twice a year (in the spring, on May 17 and in the autumn, on October 17), to the temple of Toshyo-Gu in Nikko , processions are held which have been called "The Procession of a Thousand Warriors". Everyone can take part in the action, including foreign tourists. On any other day, you can get to the sanctuary in a rented car or by ordering a pre- trip .