[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

This service includes sponsored advertisements.
[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

For those who love the weight of history and mysterious religious spaces, Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture has three sacred places worth visiting and thoroughly enjoying. These are Rinno-ji Temple Main Hall (Sanbutsudo) → Toshogu Shrine → Futarasan Shrine. This time, we will take a deeper look at the charms of Nikko.

Latest update :
Travelex Tours Co., Ltd.

Written by

We offer a variety of travel services, mainly in the Kanto area, that allow you to enjoy the charms of each season, such as skiing, fireworks festivals, and experience plans. In the summer, tours of famous fireworks festivals around Japan and unique experience programs in Tokyo are popular. In the winter, we offer all-inclusive ski tours by bus from the Kanto region to popular ski resorts in Nagano and Niigata! If you're looking for a special trip to Japan, we'll suggest the perfect plan for you.

Nikko Cultural Pilgrimage: A Soul-Healing Journey

For those interested in history and religious culture, Nikko in Tochigi Prefecture is a must-see tourist destination. A unique culture that fuses Shinto and Buddhism has taken root, and many famous places have been born over the long history of the city. Among them, Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which is registered as a World Heritage Site, is highly regarded for its gorgeous decoration and historical value. There are also many spots in the surrounding area where you can feel the sacred atmosphere, such as Futarasan Shrine and Rinno-ji Temple, where you can spend time in peace and tranquility. In this sacred mountain city where Shinto and Buddhism intersect, there are three sacred places that you should definitely visit and enjoy. They are Rinno-ji Temple Main Hall (Sanbutsudo) → Toshogu Shrine → Futarasan Shrine.

This time, we will follow this spiritual route and delve deeper into the charm of Nikko.

Rinno-ji Temple Main Hall (Sanbutsudo)—A sacred Buddhist site where serenity and solemnity coexist

The journey begins at the Sanbutsudo Hall of Nikko Rinnoji Temple.

This hall is one of the largest Buddhist halls in Nikko, and is known as one of the finest wooden buildings in eastern Japan. Once you pass through the heavy doors, you will see the approximately 8-meter-tall gilt bronze Buddha triad: Thousand-Armed Kannon, Amida Nyorai, and Bato Kannon. These three Buddhas, symbols of the Nikko Sanzan mountains, stand quietly within the hall, soothing the minds of all who visit.

With the scent of incense in the air, the wooden architecture and relaxing atmosphere will soothe your mind.

[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

Don't forget to visit the neighboring Shoyoen Garden. Known as a Japanese garden with a stroll around a pond, it is beautifully colored with fresh greenery in the spring and autumn leaves in the fall. Walking through the quiet garden will relax you and give you a sense of peace.

[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

Nikko Toshogu Shrine - the resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, filled with gold and color

About a 5-minute walk from Rinno-ji Temple, walking along a mountain path, Nikko Toshogu Shrine suddenly appears in front of you. You will find yourself stopping to stare at the gorgeously decorated shrine building and the many historical buildings. Come and experience this special time, as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period.

Nikko Toshogu Shrine was built to worship Tokugawa Ieyasu. After Ieyasu died, he became a god known as "Tosho Daigongen" and this place was prepared as his sacred ground. The building is very gorgeous, with a well-balanced use of colors such as red, blue, green and gold. The sculptures are colorful and detailed, with beauty that will catch your eye wherever you look. The combination of colors is magnificent, making you feel as if you are in a museum. The most famous of these is the National Treasure Yomeimon Gate . With over 500 sculptures, you will discover something new every time you visit. This is the reason why it is also called the "Higurashi Gate" (Higurashi Gate).

Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Yomeimon Gate<br>
Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Yomeimon Gate

Among the most famous are the sculptures of the three monkeys, known as "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil," and the sleeping cat that guards the gate with its small body .

The " Three Wise Monkeys " sculpture at Nikko Toshogu Shrine represents the three monkeys " see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil " and "hear no evil," respectively meaning "see no evil," "speak no evil," and "hear no evil."

This teaching is said to be based on Taoist teachings from the Heian period, and is considered a commandment for living an upright life as a human being. It is also meant to teach children not to get involved in bad things, and is a particularly famous sculpture at Nikko Toshogu Shrine. The sculpture is small, but very delicate and expressive, delighting visitors.

Three Wise Monkeys<br>
Three Wise Monkeys

The " Sleeping Cat" at Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a small sculpture carved into the Shinkyu Gate at the back of the shrine grounds. This cat appears to be sleeping peacefully with its eyes closed, but there is a deeper meaning behind its appearance.

The sleeping cat is said to be a symbol of Lord Ieyasu's peaceful times, and is said to act as a "watchdog" to prevent enemies from invading. In fact, while the cat is sleeping, it indicates that the surroundings are safe, and symbolizes the continuation of peaceful times.

This sculpture is very small and you might miss it at first glance, but many people are amazed by the intricate carvings and rich expressions. If you visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine, be sure to look for the sleeping cat at Shinmayamon Gate and feel its quiet strength.

Sleeping Cat<br>
Sleeping Cat

Futarasan Shrine - A power spot that brings together connections and prayers

The final stop on the trip will be a visit to Futarasan Shrine , one of the oldest shrines in Nikko.

[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

The deity enshrined here is Onamuchi-no-Mikoto, who is believed to bring many blessings, such as matchmaking, good health, and business prosperity . In contrast to the Toshogu Shrine, which boasts the opulence of its gold leaf, this shrine has a more rustic and friendly atmosphere, with the scent of wood and the hint of nature.

[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

The grounds are dotted with moving spots, such as the giant parent-child cedar trees that stand like parent, child, and grandchild, and the sacred tree that exudes divine energy. In front of the shrine is the famous vermilion bridge, Shinkyo , a sacred bridge that only gods were allowed to cross in ancient times.

Shinkyo Bridge PHOTO BY Nikko City Official Tourism Website<br>
Shinkyo Bridge PHOTO BY Nikko City Official Tourism Website

Currently, you can cross the river for a fee, and the moment of walking on the pure water is a sacred experience that is perfect for concluding your trip.
The bridge is also lit up at night, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful sight of the bridge shining under the night sky.

The only guide at Nikko Shrine - "Dojabiki"

A "Dojabiki" that has been passed down since the Edo period is the only authorized guide to show around Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Rinno-ji Temple, and Futarasan Shrine (commonly known as "Nikko's Two Shrines and One Temple"). They convey the charms of historic shrines and temples, including Toshogu Shrine, in an easy-to-understand manner, using their extensive knowledge and experience. They are a valuable presence that allows you to learn deeply and be moved in ways that you cannot experience as a simple tourist.

Hall of Fame Puller - Takeyuki Kasuga Photo by Nikko Hall of Fame Guide Association<br>
Hall of Fame Puller - Takeyuki Kasuga Photo by Nikko Hall of Fame Guide Association

Many overseas visitors to Nikko want to gain a deeper understanding of the history and background of Toshogu Shrine. For such people, Toshogu Shrine offers an English-speaking guide service. This service is provided by guides who are fluent in English and well versed in the history of Toshogu Shrine, and will carefully guide you around the shrine grounds for about 90 minutes. They will explain the history, culture, architecture and sculptures of the World Heritage Site, "Shrines and Temples of Nikko," with a wealth of knowledge and humor.

Shodo Shonin PHOTOBY PHOTOAC<br>
Shodo Shonin PHOTOBY PHOTOAC

Toshogu Shrine is not only a World Heritage Site, but also an important place to convey Japanese history and culture. One of the attractions is that you can fully experience its charm by walking with an English guide.

This English guide service can be booked in advance on the official website and is very popular with tourists from overseas. For those who are interested in Japanese culture and history, it will be a valuable experience that will give you deeper knowledge and excitement. In addition, you can feel free to ask any questions you may have through dialogue with the guide, so you will enjoy a sense of satisfaction that goes beyond mere sightseeing. It is a very valuable service for overseas visitors who want to enrich their travel memories and gain a deeper understanding.

A trip to taste Nikko's specialty, "Yuba"

After enjoying the historical tour, enjoy Nikko's delicious cuisine!
Nikko is known for its rich natural environment and historical cultural heritage, but it is also famous as a major producer of "yuba". Yuba is a thin film that forms on the surface of soy milk when it is heated, and has long been a popular traditional Japanese food ingredient. The clear water and climate of the Nikko region of Tochigi Prefecture are ideal for producing high-quality yuba, so yuba production has been active locally for a long time.

[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

Nikko's yuba is made using a two-layer process, giving it a fine, soft texture and the natural sweetness and richness of soy milk. It is healthy yet rich in flavor, and is loved by many as a special dish among Japanese cuisine. There are many different styles of yuba cuisine, including raw yuba sashimi, yuba rolls, yuba tempura, yuba rice bowls, and clear soups. All of them make use of the gentle flavor of soy milk, and are gentle on both the body and the soul.

Fujiya, a long-established Nikko yuba store PHOTO BY Nikko City Official Tourism Website<br>
Fujiya, a long-established Nikko yuba store PHOTO BY Nikko City Official Tourism Website

In between visiting Nikko Toshogu Shrine or taking a stroll, be sure to take a walk around town and check out the shops that interest you. There are many unique yuba restaurants, from long-established historical establishments to modern cafe-style establishments. Find your favorite one and enjoy the food at your leisure.

Enjoy a sweet moment after the meal──

Nikko's specialty sweet "Honey Castella"

After walking around the historic town of Nikko and filling your stomach with delicious yuba dishes, you'll probably want something sweet. The perfect thing for such an occasion is the honey castella cake from Nikko Castella Honpo Bandai Nikko Branch, a long-time local favorite!
Nikko is a land blessed with abundant nature and pure water, and the natural honey harvested there has a strong fragrance and a gentle sweetness that enhances the flavor of the castella. With just one bite, the rich aroma of honey spreads throughout the mouth, bringing back some nostalgic feelings.

[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

The ingredients used are carefully selected eggs, flour, and natural honey from Tochigi Prefecture.

The handmade castella cakes are moist and soft, with a subtle honey aroma and a refined taste. No unnecessary additives are used, and the flavor of the ingredients is preserved, making them safe for small children and the elderly to enjoy.

Not only is it a great snack to enjoy during your trip, but the beautifully wrapped castella cakes are also sure to make a great souvenir or gift. We hope you'll take this gentle flavor home with you as a memory of your trip!

A new afternoon in Nikko──Enjoy matcha at MATCHA CAFE Nikko Chatsubo!

Nikko's first matcha sweets and drink specialty store "MATCHA CAFE Nikko Cha Tsubo" has opened at the entrance to the west approach to Nikko Toshogu Shrine. The "cha tsubo" in the store's name refers to a container that once held famous teas from all over Japan that were presented to Tokugawa Ieyasu. The store is imbued with the desire to inherit Nikko's history that is deeply connected to "tea" and to provide the finest matcha in modern times.

Here you can enjoy sweets and drinks made with plenty of high-quality matcha from Uji, Kyoto. The particularly popular "matcha crepes" are carefully baked right in front of you, with a chewy texture and exquisite matcha aroma. In addition, there is a lineup of items that matcha lovers will love, such as rich koicha parfaits, matcha soft serve ice cream, and raw chocolate.

Particularly popular are the cute monkey monaka with the three monkeys (see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil) as a motif, and the matcha parfait with plenty of sweet and sour strawberries. The monkey monaka has a unique design and is based on the three monkeys, the symbol of Nikko, so it is not only delicious but also looks good, and many customers take photos in the store. The appearance and taste make you want to share, making it the perfect sweet to create memories of your trip.

[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

The matcha drinks are carefully prepared one by one by a tea master. You can enjoy not only the taste, but also the aroma and sound of the tea whisk as it is being made, for a Japanese experience that appeals to all five senses.

[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

The packaging for financiers and matcha chocolate is decorated with the motif of the three monkeys, the symbol of Nikko, and is just the right size for a gift, making it a very popular souvenir or present for loved ones.

[Tochigi/Nikko] World Heritage Temple and Shrine Tour: Stroll through the history of Rinno-ji Temple, Tosho-gu Shrine, and Futarasan Shrine

After walking through the historic streets, refresh yourself with some cold matcha tea or matcha sweets in a cool space where history and matcha meet. It's a special moment that can only be experienced in Nikko, where you can enjoy a comfortable summer tea time while soothing your body tired from the heat!

Enjoy history and flavors! A tour of Nikko's shrines and delicious cuisine

Why not enjoy the famous yuba cuisine while walking through the historic city of Nikko? Soft and healthy, yuba is appealing in a variety of flavors, from traditional Japanese cuisine to cafe-style. After filling your stomach, take a break with castella cake made with local honey or rich matcha sweets. At MATCHA CAFE Nikko Chatsubo, you can spend a relaxing time surrounded by the aroma of matcha.
Come and enjoy a trip to Nikko to enjoy history and fine cuisine!

Book your tour here!

A special guided tour by a Dojabiki (a guided tour guide) A professional guide will explain the history and culture of Nikko in an easy-to-understand way!

Date: Every Tuesday from 14:30 (duration: approx. 90 minutes)

Event period: July to December

Participation conditions: 2 or more people required

Price: 8,000 yen per person (tax included)

How to make a reservation: Please apply using the Google form at the link below.

Book your tour here

Travelex Tours Co., Ltd.

We offer a variety of travel services, mainly in the Kanto area, that allow you to enjoy the charms of each season, such as skiing, fireworks festivals, and experience plans. In the summer, tours of famous fireworks festivals around Japan and unique experience programs in Tokyo are popular. In the winter, we offer all-inclusive ski tours by bus from the Kanto region to popular ski resorts in Nagano and Niigata! If you're looking for a special trip to Japan, we'll suggest the perfect plan for you.

The information presented in this article is based on the time it was written. Note that there may be changes in the merchandise, services, and prices that have occurred after this article was published. Please contact the facility or facilities in this article directly before visiting. Some of our articles contain affiliate links. We kindly ask our readers to exercise careful judgement when making a purchase or booking a service online.

The contents on this page may partially contain automatic translation.