Toshogu Shrine - Nikko - 日光東照宮 - 4K Ultra HD Video Introduction Located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a renowned Shinto shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu. It is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Japan's top tourist attractions. The featured YouTube video, "Toshogu Shrine - Nikko - 日光東照宮 - 4K Ultra HD," vividly captures the shrine’s majestic presence and seasonal beauty in immersive 4K footage. What is Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Nikko City, Tochigi? Nikko Toshogu Shrine enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, as the deity "Toshogu Daigongen." It was established in 1617 and later underwent extensive renovations under the third shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, resulting in its current ornate appearance. Along with Rinnoji Temple and Futarasan Shrine, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 as part of the "Shrines and Temples of Nikko." Highlights of Nikko Toshogu Shrine: Yomeimon, the Three Wise Monkeys, and the Sleeping Cat Photo: Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a World Heritage Site in Tochigi Prefecture One of the main attractions at Nikko Toshogu Shrine is the splendidly decorated Yomeimon Gate, adorned with vibrant carvings. Due to its captivating beauty, it is often called "Higurashi-no-mon" (the gate you never tire of looking at). Each carving tells a story、drawing upon sources ranging from Chinese legends to mythical creatures and scenes from Japan’s seasonal nature, making it a truly mesmerizing sight. Photo: The Three Wise Monkeys at Nikko Toshogu Shrine Another famous feature is the carving of the Three Wise Monkeys—"See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil." This is part of eight monkey carvings on the sacred stable, symbolizing the moral teaching for children to grow up with innocence. It also has humorously depicts various life lessons, making it a popular spot for photos. Photo: Wood carving of the Sleeping Cat at Nikko Toshogu Shrine Further into the shrine grounds, you’ll encounter the famous wooden carving of the Sleeping Cat attributed to Hidari Jingoro. Though the cat appears to be asleep, a sparrow is carved on the back side, symbolizing peace and coexistence. It’s said to reflect Tokugawa Ieyasu’s wish for peace. The carving was restored in 2016 for the first time in about 60 years. It is located along the path leading to the Inner Shrine (Okumiya), up about 200 stone steps. Visit Tokugawa Ieyasu’s Mausoleum—A Sacred Site Surrounded by Forest Photo: Grave site of Tokugawa Ieyasu at Nikko Toshogu Shrine Passing through the Sleeping Cat Gate and climbing the 207 moss-covered stone steps, you’ll reach the Inner Shrine (Okumiya), the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Though simple in design, this sacred site is surrounded by towering cedar trees and exudes a profound spiritual presence. The path to the mausoleum is enveloped in the sound of rustling leaves, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Visiting in the early morning or late evening offers a tranquil experience away from the crowds, allowing you to feel a slower passage of time and leaving a lasting impression. Visitor Information and Access Guide Admission Fee (as of June 2025) ◎ Adults (including high school students): 1,600 yen ◎ Elementary & Junior High School Students: 550 yen ◎ Combo ticket with the Treasure Museum: 2,400 yen for adults, 870 yen for children *Audio guides available in Japanese, English, and Chinese for an additional 500 yen Recommended Time Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours for a leisurely tour of the shrine grounds. Access ◎ From JR Nikko Station / Tobu Nikko Station → Tobu Bus Take the "World Heritage Tour" or "Chuzenji Onsen" route for about 10 minutes. Get off at either "Omotesando" or "Nishisando Iriguchi," then walk 5–10 minutes. ◎ From Tokyo, take the Limited Express "Spacia" from Asakusa Station to Tobu Nikko (approx. 1 hour 50 minutes), or take JR from Tokyo to Utsunomiya to Nikko (approx. 2–2.5 hours). Convenient for day trips. ◎ Signage and audio guides are available in English for foreign visitors, making the site tourist-friendly. Nearby Attractions and Recommendations Photo: Rinnoji Temple While visiting Nikko Toshogu Shrine, be sure to also explore the adjacent Rinnoji Temple and Futarasan Shrine. These three sites together form the World Heritage "Shrines and Temples of Nikko" and are especially photogenic during spring’s fresh greenery and autumn foliage seasons. They are also great spots for collecting goshuin (temple/shrine stamps), available at four locations: beside Yomeimon Gate, in front of the Main Gate, at the Worship Hall, and at the Inner Shrine. For a relaxing break during your visit, try local specialties like yuba (tofu skin) cuisine and traditional sweets. Many restaurants along the approach and temple town offer dishes like yuba set meals, yuba rice bowls, and matcha parfaits, a perfect match for enjoying the cultural ambiance. Conclusion Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a rare place where architecture, sculpture, and nature harmoniously blend, offering a unique opportunity to experience the traditional beauty and spirituality of Japan. We invite you to visit in person and immerse yourself in its majestic atmosphere. [Official Website] https://www.toshogu.jp/

Basho no Sato - A Popular Sightseeing Destination in Otawara, Tochigi This video, titled "JG☆☆8K HDR 栃木 芭蕉の里 黒羽 大雄寺(重文) Tochigi,Kurobane Daioji(Cultural Property)," was created by "JAPAN GEOGRAPHIC." Matsuo Basho, a poet active during the Edo period (1603 AD - 1868 AD), is one of the most famous haiku poets in Japanese history. Many of the locations and buildings mentioned in his poetry collection "Oku no Hosomichi" (奥の細道) (often translated as "The Narrow Road to the Deep North") have become famous tourist spots in Japan. Basho no Sato Kurobane (芭蕉の里黒羽), introduced in the video, is one such tourist spot, located in Otawara, Tochigi. There are several famous spots in Basho no Sato, such as Daioji Temple, which belongs to the Soto school of Buddhism (曹洞宗), as well as Kurobane Fukushi Park (黒羽福祉公園), and Kurobane Basho no Yakata (芭蕉の館). Daioji Temple was built in 1404, giving it a long history dating back more than 600 years. Retracing the footsteps of Matsuo Basho in Daioji Temple Source :YouTube screenshot What kind of building is Tochigi prefecture's Daioji Temple? Let's take a look at Daioji Temple alongside the video. ・Sanmon (山門) 0:07～ Many Jizo statues (御地蔵) line the path towards the main temple gate. With these you can experience the atmosphere of the ancient temple. ・Somon (総門) and Kairo (回廊) 0:26～ A small main gate guarded by statues of arhats (羅漢) which marks the entrance to the thatch roofed hallway. ・Kyozo (経蔵) 0:45～ A storehouse where Buddhist scriptures are kept. Behind the storehouse is the treasure house known as "Shukokan" (集古館). Source :YouTube screenshot ・Shoro (鐘楼) 1:40～ After passing through Somon gate, a Japanese garden ornament, which also happens to be a musical device known as a "Suikinkutsu" (水琴窟) can be seen on the left hand side. On the right hand side you can see the bell tower "Shoro." ・Zendo (禅堂) 2:22～ If you turn left into the corridor (Kairo), about half way through you'll find the Zen meditation hall, or "Zendo." Matsuo Basho's poetry collection "Oku no Hosomichi" is an important piece of classical Japanese literature that is famous both in Japan as well as overseas. His journey, which covers all areas of Japan, was no easy feat. He would often walk several kilometers a day, writing haiku poems at many of his destinations. However, he is said to have spent two full weeks in Kurobane, Tochigi (featured in the video) with his disciple. Areas such as Nikko (日光) and Nasu (那須) in Tochigi prefecture are famous for their beautiful autumn foliage. The areas surrounding Kurobane Castle (黒羽城) and Daioji Temple also turn beautiful shades of red in autumn and are covered with peonies and irises. The picturesque scenery is sure to have tugged at the heart strings of Matsuo Basho. Daioji Temple has been preserved in its original form since 1448. At the time, the temple was known as "Kurobanesan Kuonin Daioji" (黒羽山久遠院大雄寺). Summary of Basho no Sato Source :YouTube screenshot Tochigi prefecture was an area Matsuo Basho was particularly fond of. In particular, the area surrounding Kurobane Castle and Daioji Temple which has been called "Basho no Sato". The area attracts lots of tourists each year and is one of the top sightseeing spots in Tochigi prefecture. Tochigi prefecture is most famous for its picturesque scenery in fall. However, the hydrangea flowers planted around Daioji temple, when in bloom, are also a spectacular sight to see, and a festival is held each year to welcome them. Peonies and irises are also planted alongside the path to the temple, creating a beautiful landscape that can be enjoyed all year round. 【Tripadvisor】Daioji Temple https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1021424-d7020346-Reviews-Daiouji_Temple-Otawara_Tochigi_Prefecture_Kanto.html

The Oya History Museum in Utsunomiya, Tochigi: Video Introduction This video, titled "[Oya History Museum] A 6-minute tour of another world in Tochigi: The Oya Stone Mining Site 4K" (【大谷資料館】栃木にある異世界6分ツアー 大谷石採掘場跡 4K), was uploaded by "Tourist Attraction Japan." The Oya History Museum is located in a mysterious underground space with vast stone structures that are illuminated. In the video, you can see the beautiful 4K footage showing what resembles an underground temple. When lit up, the quarry ruins become an artistic space. Take a moment to check out the video that condenses some of the best parts of the Oya History Museum into just 6 minutes of footage. Learn About the History of Oya Stone Mining at the Oya History Museum! Photo：The Oya History Museum, Utsunomiya, Tochigi Oya stone, mined mainly in Oya, Utsunomiya, in Tochigi Prefecture, became known throughout Japan when it was used as a building material for the former Imperial Hotel. At the Oya History Museum, visitors can learn about the history of Oya stone in the exhibition room on the ground level and at the Oya Stone Mining Site. Oya stone is made of hardened volcanic ash and pumice rock fragments. It is softer and easier to process than other stones, and was mainly used as a building material because of its excellent fire resistance. Mining began in the mid-Edo period (around 1700-1800 AD). At first, mining was conducted during the off-season, but by the Meiji era (1868-1912), had become a full-fledged industry. Later, mining was done by hand until the 1950s, when it was successfully mechanized. The Oya History Museum is a valuable place where visitors can actually see and learn about the history of Oya stone mining, including the changes in the mining process throughout the years. The Oya History Museum, a Filming Location for Japanese Movies and TV Dramas Photo：Illuminated Oya stone at the Oya History Museum, Utsunomiya, Tochigi The Oya stone Mining Site has been the filming location for many Japanese dramas, movies, and music videos. Popular films include Rurouni Kenshin, Assassination Classroom, and the Kamen Rider series, and dramas such as "The Brave Yoshihiko And The Seven Driven People." It has also been used for shooting music videos for musicians, such as the Japanese rock duo B'z. Here are some of the various highlights of the Oya History Museum: ●It's a Space Reminiscent of an Underground Temple Descending the stairs from the entrance to the basement, visitors will find a 20,000-square-meter space which looks like an underground temple from a science fiction movie. ●Recreation of the Hand-Digging Era With Dolls The museum uses realistic dolls to recreate the hand-digging mining that was conducted from the Edo period (1603-1868 AD) until the introduction of machines in 1955. ●Holes With Light Coming in From the Ground During the mining process, holes were drilled to check the digging position from the ground. The light shining through these holes is as artistic as calculated lighting. ●Mining Ruins Resembling Murals The patterns of the mining ruins on the walls are like contemporary artwork. The walls are also used for concerts and other events. The space surrounded by Oya stone is said to have excellent acoustics. ●Fantastical Lighting Artworks and art objects using lighting are exhibited in the mining site, and art exhibitions are held on occasion as well. In addition, the site offers a variety of other ways for visitors to enjoy their visit, such as exploration events in collaboration with the "Made in Abyss" anime series. When visiting, visitors should be sure to wear warmer clothing. The temperature at the mining site can be as low as 10-11°C even in the summer, so be sure to prepare a jacket. Reservations, Admission Fees, and Time Required to Visit the Oya History Museum Photo：Oya History Museum, Utsunomiya, Tochigi You might be wondering, "Do visitors need a reservation to enter the Oya History Museum?" Well, as it turns out, reservations are not required for regular tours. Since there are only stairs to go underground, wheelchairs and baby strollers are not permitted to enter the museum. For those who have difficulty walking, a golf cart service is available to guide visitors, but please contact the Oya History Museum directly for details due to restrictions, such as limited weekday hours and the need for advance reservations. Also, please note that permission for taking cosplay photos is not received via reservation, but through application and permission, and there is a fee for this service. Admission to the Oya History Museum is 800 yen for adults, 400 yen for children (elementary and junior high school students), and free for preschool-aged children; group discounts apply for groups of 20 or more, with the price reduced to 700 yen for adults and 350 yen for children. The average time required to visit the Oya History Museum is about 40 minutes. If you want to take your time while taking pictures, it's recommended that you expect to spend around 60 minutes here. Visit ROCKSIDE Market After the Oya History Museum for Lunch at a Café On the grounds of the Oya History Museum, there is a café-restaurant called ROCKSIDE MARKET. After a leisurely stroll through the underground mining site, be sure to stop by. Upon entering the stylish restaurant, you'll find dynamic vases made of hollowed-out Oya stone, plants in Oya stone pots, accessories, and other items for sale. The lineup includes unique Oya stone products made by artists based in Tochigi. These souvenirs are a great way to commemorate your visit to Tochigi. A popular menu item is a galette made with ingredients from Tochigi Prefecture. There are both dessert galettes and meal galettes, which are perfect for lunch or afternoon tea. Gelato, available in several flavors, is also popular, so be sure to give it a try. There are other stylish cafes around the Oya History Museum as well, so have a look around if you're looking to grab a bite to eat after learning about the history of Oya stone. Things to Do Near the Oya History Museum After visiting the Oya History Museum, consider checking out one of these tourist attractions located nearby: Oya Temple This Buddhist Temple in Utsunomiya, Tochigi is famous for its relief carvings which are done on the faces of the stone cliffs in the area. The temple is believed to have been founded by the famous Buddhist monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) in 810 AD. Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. Closed: Thursdays (open on national holidays), December 26-31 Admission Fee: Adults: 500 yen, Middle school students: 200 yen, Elementary school students: 100 yen (Discounts available for groups of 30 or more) Heiwa Kannon Heiwa Kannon is a large Buddhist statue of Kannon (Avalokitesvara, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy). The statue, which stands nearly 27 meters tall (88.5 feet), was carved completely by hand over a period of 6 years from 1948-1954. The name means "The Peaceful Goddess of Mercy." Hours: 24 hours Closed: Always open Admission Fee: Free Summary of the Oya History Museum in Utsunomiya, Tochigi The Oya History Museum can be accessed from JR Utsunomiya Station by local bus. It's a popular spot where many Japanese Instagrammers come to take photos. Children can enjoy exploring the underground temple-like mining site as though they've wandered into another world. If you're traveling to Tochigi, be sure to add the Oya History Museum to your itinerary! 【Official Website】Oya History Museum 【TripAdvisor】Oya History Museum