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Nikko

Nikko
The Shrines and Temples of Nikko are a traditional Japanese religious centre with Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. The surroundings of Nikko have been known for ages as a holy place. The temples and other shrines in this area originate from the 17th century and attract attention because of their rich decorations.

The well known carvings of the three see-no-evil, speak-no-evil, hear-no-evil monkeys can be seen on the Sacred Stable. A few steps from that, the Youmeimon gate boasts over 300 carvings of mythical beasts, such as dragons, giraffes, and lions, and Chinese sages.

Another reason for rewarding Nikko is that it is associated with the Shinto perception of the relationship of man with nature, in which mountains and forests have a sacred meaning and are objects of veneration. The mountaneous landscape, the trees, the rocks: they all form part of the site Nikko.

Year Decision Comments
1999 Inscribed Reasons for inscription



Visit May 2000

There are a lot of temples in Japan, but the ones at Nikko I liked most. Nikko at its own disproves the common remark that Japan does not have world class sights.

The Toshogu-shrine is the best example of this. The main gate inside the complex is 11 metres high and painted with animals, flowers and human figures. Especially the smallest details (which you can only see with binoculars or the zoom lens of your camera) are magnificent. What at first just looks like a coloured border later turns out to be a whole scene. line

Reviews

Clyde (Malta):
I visited this WHS in November 2009. The shrines and temples of Nikko, together with their natural surroundings, have for centuries been a sacred site known for its architectural and decorative masterpieces. They are closely associated with the history of the Tokugawa Shoguns. You could easily spend 3-4 days here to try to cover all the sights there are to see.
Date posted: September 2012
kasileigh (USA):
Nikko is a beautiful area. The World Heritage sites are all within easy walking distance from each other. There is a bus specific for the sites as well. I took the train from Asakusa, Tokyo and used the EY@World Heritage Pass. It covers the roundtrip train ticket on the Tobu line and entrance to the sites. It doesn't however pay for special exhibits within the sites. The buildings were beautiful and very peaceful. Toshogu had construction and renovations going on but the main gate and buildings were visible. I would recommend going as early as possible to the sites. Since Nikko is a very popular destination there are many tour groups as well as school trips there. After around 9:30a.m., the temples and shrines lost a little of their tranquility and became more of a circus. But overall I would go back here again and recommend it to others. There is more to the area than just the World Heritage sites. Nikko is also in a national park with hot springs, waterfalls, hiking, and a large lake. To do both the sites and the park will require a stay overnight as the natural areas are at least an hour away by bus. Also Nikko is famous for yuba (tofu skin) so try some of the great yuba cuisine while you are there.
Date posted: July 2009
C H Ho (Hong Kong, China):
To visit the heritage in Japan, my first choice is Nikko. The constructor showed his power and treasury to build the most beautiful and colorful temples in Japan.
 


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