The shrine can be accessed via a ropeway from Nihondaira, which offers a scenic view of Suruga Bay, or by climbing the 1,159 stone steps from the base of Mount Kunozan.
Inside the shrine, visitors can admire intricate wood carvings, lacquered pillars, and other examples of Edo-period craftsmanship, as well as the tomb of Tokugawa Ieyasu.
The shrine hosts several events throughout the year, including the Toshogu Grand Festival in April, which features traditional ceremonies, performances, and a parade.
Yes, the shrine is suitable for visitors of all ages, though the steep climb may be challenging for some. Families often enjoy the combination of historical exploration and scenic views.
It is an Important Cultural Property.
This gate is the first thing you encounter after buying your entrance ticket at the shrine office.
Its crimson-colored form, standing at the top of steep stone steps, had a gorgeous and dignified atmosphere.
The steps are steeper and longer than you'd think when you start to climb, so you need to be careful, even on the way down.
It is also known as the Chokaku Gomon Gate.
Attendant statues are enshrined on both sides of the gate.
It is often compared to Nikko's Yomeimon Gate, but I thought it fit in well with the surrounding atmosphere in its own way.
Romon Gate (Important Cultural Property) Once you pass through the shrine office reception, you will see a large vermilion-painted gate. It is a two-story gate called Romon Gate. In the center under the eaves hangs a plaque reading "Tosho Daigongen" written by the 108th Emperor Gomizunoo, so it is also known as the "Chokugaku Gomon" (Imperially Plaqueed Gate). There is a carving of a Baku (a frog) on the central frog-legs, and inside the lattice doors on the left and right of the front are zuishin (attendants), and inside the kongou fence on the left and right of the back are komainu (lions without horns, and komainu with horns).
