Discover the World Heritage Sites of Nikko: Temples and Shrines

The architectural complex known as the "Shrines and Temples of Nikko," centered around Futarasan Shrine, Toshogu Shrine, and Rinnoji Temple, was designated as Japan's tenth World Heritage Site in 1999. Toshogu Shrine is the most famous shrine in Nikko, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo period. The current shrine buildings were largely reconstructed in 1636 by the third shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu. The site features 55 buildings, including eight national treasures and 34 important cultural properties, showcasing the craftsmanship of artisans from across Japan. The total cost of construction, estimated in modern terms, ranges from 40 billion to 100 billion yen, representing the pinnacle of opulence and grandeur. Futarasan Shrine, established in 766 by Shodo Shonin, venerates Mount Nantai as a sacred object. It is a prominent center of mountain worship in the region, covering 3,400 hectares within Nikko National Park. The shrine is renowned for its efficacy in granting blessings, safe childbirth, and matchmaking. Rinnoji Temple, founded 1,200 years ago by Shodo Shonin, features the Sanbutsudo, the largest wooden structure in Nikko, housing three massive Buddha statues representing the local deities of Nikko's three mountains. The temple complex includes the Gomado Hall, which enshrines the gods of fortune, and the Treasure House, displaying national treasures and important cultural properties. Mount Nantai, a majestic volcano standing at 2,486 meters, is a sacred object of worship for the Nikko shrines. It offers a challenging 4-kilometer hiking trail open from May 5 to October 25 each year. Lake Chuzenji, located at the foot of Mount Nantai at an elevation of 1,269 meters, was formed by volcanic activity around 20,000 years ago. It became an international summer resort in the 19th and 20th centuries, attracting foreign diplomats and villa owners. The 25-kilometer lakeside walking route offers views of azaleas in early summer and autumn foliage.