The Significance of "Nikko"

Years ago I was lucky to visit the Japanese city of Nikko for some sightseeing.  Nikko is a city approximately 90 miles to the north of Tokyo, but it is really much more than that.  Initially built around temples during the 8th century, Nikko today is most famous for the shrine “Nikko-Tosho-gu” which was completed in 1617.  This shrine is dedicated to the founder of the famous Tokugawa Shogunate – Tokugawa Ieyasu, and his remains are kept here.  This makes this place very special in the history of Japan, as it represents a very spiritual place for the Edo period of Tokugawa rule.

There are incredible buildings at Nikko, with extremely detailed hand carvings that are painted in bright colors.  I can’t imagine the time it must have taken to make all of these carvings.  Unfortunately our time at Nikko was limited, and we did not get to walk up to the grave of Ieyasu.  Maybe some other time!?

Nikko-Tosho-gu is a very special place, and I recommend visiting it if you get the chance.  It can be reached by train (of course!).