The Shrines and Temples of Nikko are in a single complex with one hundred and three religious buildings. There are two Shinto shrines (Futarasan Shrine and Toshogu) and one Buddhist Temple (Rinno-ji). Far too many for one visit so we decided to concentrate on Toshogu and even then there are 42 buildings.

Not only is the Toshogu Shrine dedicated to one of the most important figures, Tokugawa Iesasu, in Japanese history, it is one of the most decorated and expensive shrines in Japan with intricate and unique carvings.

Below – the five story pagoda, 36 metres high

Above is Kamijinko, one of three storehouses for clothing. The sketch from which the elephants was carved was by Kano Tanyu and it is thought that he had never seen an elephant in real life!

Below is the Shinkyusha, a stable for the sacred horse. The monkey frieze allegedly depicts the lifespan on monkeys.

The four photos above are of the Yomeimon Gate, the main east gate. Of the 12 pillars one is upside down as there is a belief that if something is perfect it immediately starts to deteriorate.

I am sparing you the photos of other buildings … but I want you to know that there are 207 stone steps up to the Inner Shrine. A steep and long climb!

As with all shrines, there is the opportunity to buy various charms & figurines to promote health, wealth, success in exams, childbirth (endless selection) or to by throwing money and praying at the ancient Japanese cedar Wish- Granting Tree.

And finally, a photo of the Shinkyo Bridge that stands at the entrance to the Shrines and Temple complex … and this bridge is ranked as one of Japan’s three finest bridges.