Nikko Toshogu Shrine is one of Japan's most important cultural and historical landmarks. For that reason, this place is very touristy. Still, it is worth visiting if you love architecture. It has highly decorated buildings, intricate carvings, and stunning natural surroundings. I’ve visited twice, and both times, it was raining, which somehow added to the mystical atmosphere of the shrine, with mist enveloping the forest and the ornate structures.

Some key highlights include:

• Yomeimon Gate: Known as the "Gate of the Setting Sun," it's incredibly ornate with over 500 carvings, including animals, flowers, and legendary figures.

• Five-Story Pagoda: Standing at the entrance, this pagoda is a symbol of the shrine’s grandeur.

• Three Wise Monkeys Carving: A famous carving symbolizing "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil."

• Sleeping Cat Carving (Nemurineko): A famous symbol of peace and tranquility, guarding the inner sanctum where Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined.

Practical Information:

• Entry Fee: The fee for entering the paid areas of Toshogu Shrine is around 1,600 yen.

• How to Get There:

  • By Train: Take the Tobu Railway from Asakusa Station in Tokyo to Tobu-Nikko Station (about 2 hours). From the station, it’s a 10-minute bus ride or a 30-minute walk to the shrine.

  • By JR: You can also take a JR train from Tokyo Station to Utsunomiya, then transfer to the JR Nikko Line to Nikko Station.

• Best Time to Visit: While the shrine is open year-round, spring and autumn are ideal times to visit. Cherry blossoms in the spring and vibrant autumn leaves make the surroundings even more stunning.

Insider Tip:

If you’re short on time or just prefer to save some money, walking around the outer areas is equally rewarding. You’ll get great views of the main structures, and the surrounding cedar forests provide a serene backdrop.