Toshogu Shrine, also known as the (東照宮, Tōshōgū), is an impressive commemorative site dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the renowned founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate that governed Japan for over 250 years until 1868. Within Toshogu, Ieyasu is revered as the deity Tosho Daigongen, symbolizing the "Great Deity of the East Shining Light." Originally a modest mausoleum, Toshogu underwent remarkable expansion under the supervision of Ieyasu's grandson, Iemitsu, in the early 17th century.

This shrine contains both Shinto and Buddhist elements.The shrine complex, adorned with lavish decorations, comprises over twelve buildings situated in a stunning forest. The structures are embellished with numerous intricate wood carvings and generous applications of gold leaf, creating a unique display not commonly found in other shrines in Japan, where simplicity has typically been emphasized in shrine architecture.

Toshogu Shrine Hours and Admission.

• Toshogu Shrine is open from 9 am to 17.00 pm from Monday to Sunday. 
• 1300 yen (shrine), 1000 yen (museum), 2100 yen (shrine and museum).

How to get to Toshogu Shrine.

You can go either by walk or bus.

• From Nikko Station or Tobu Nikko Station, you can take the World Heritage tour bus that stops at the UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Rinnoji Temple. The bus ride will take about 15 minutes.
• Walking to the temple takes about 40 minutes from Nikko Station, but Nikko has a lot of beautiful sights to see. You can enjoy the natural scenery while walking.