Nikko Rinno-ji Temple & Toshogu Shrine English Guided Tour | Includes Matcha Dessert Voucher | Meet on-site
- World Heritage Site 'Rinno-ji Temple': A must-visit is the 'Sanbutsudo' (Three Buddha Hall), where you can view the three majestic and solemn Buddha statues with a reverent heart!
- World Heritage Site 'Toshogu Shrine': Famous worldwide for its magnificent architectural design! As the head shrine of all Toshogu shrines in Japan, iconic structures and carvings like the Yomeimon Gate, the Sleeping Cat, and the Three Wise Monkeys are absolute must-sees!
- Includes a complimentary voucher for a matcha dessert at a popular local shop (choose one of two options)!
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Get there on your own |
| Minimum participant requirement | 2 travelers |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Meal arrangement | With Snacks |
| Sightseeing type | Temples & shrines, Historic site tour |
| Transport | Walking |
Product Info
・Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Located in Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko Toshogu Shrine is one of the three major Toshogu shrines in Japan. Dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Shogunate, its main hall is incredibly opulent and has been designated as a National Treasure and Important Cultural Property of Japan. In December 1999, the 'Shrines and Temples of Nikko,' including Toshogu Shrine, Rinno-ji Temple, and Nikko Futarasan Shrine, were registered as a World Heritage site. The shrine complex features many buildings, with the 'Three Wise Monkeys,' 'Yomeimon Gate,' and 'Sleeping Cat' being the most famous highlights worth taking your time to admire.
・Rinno-ji Temple
The history of Rinno-ji Temple dates back to the Nara period and flourished under the patronage of the Tokugawa family during the Edo period. The temple houses numerous National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, including the 'Taiyuin Mausoleum' dedicated to Tokugawa Iemitsu and the main hall, 'Sanbutsudo.' The Nikko mountain area consists of 'Toshogu Shrine,' 'Futarasan Shrine,' and 'Rinno-ji Temple,' collectively known as the 'Two Shrines and One Temple.' While Toshogu is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, Futarasan Shrine and Rinno-ji Temple were founded in the Nara period and have an even longer history. The syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism was prevalent until the 'Separation of Shinto and Buddhism' order was implemented in the early Meiji period, which led to the clear distinction and the scattering of Rinno-ji Temple's buildings across the Nikko mountain area.
*This product provides a guided tour service only and does not include admission tickets. Please purchase your own tickets: Rinno-ji Temple (400 JPY) and Toshogu Shrine (1600 JPY).
・MATCHA CAFE Nikko Chako
MATCHA CAFE Nikko Chako is inspired by the story of Tokugawa Ieyasu's love for tea. It is said that the finest matcha from across the country was once stored in tea jars and sent to the 'Chako Yashiki' (Tea Jar Residence), becoming a precious symbol of historical tea culture. MATCHA CAFE Nikko Chako carefully selects high-quality Uji matcha and blends it with the aroma of local sencha, offering visitors to Nikko a variety of exquisite matcha desserts and drinks. These teas not only inherit Ieyasu's refined taste but also continue the traditional spirit of the Nikko tea offering ceremony.
*This tour includes a voucher for your choice of the shop's signature 'Matcha Crepe' or 'Matcha Strawberry Latte.' The matcha is hand-whisked by experts on-site, fully presenting the aroma and layers of the tea for a multi-layered tasting experience.
*MATCHA CAFE Nikko Chako business hours: 10:00–17:00. Please be sure to visit during these hours.
Nikko Toshogu Shrine - Yomeimon Gate
Nikko Toshogu Shrine - Three Monkeys
Nikko Toshogu Shrine - Sleeping Cat
Nikko Street Style
MATCHA CAFE Nikko Teapot Exchange Coupon Contents
Purchase Notice
【Travel Conditions】
Travel origin and destination: Tochigi
Experience time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Minimum number of people in a group: 2
English tour guide: 1
【Travel Planning/Implementation】
Operating company name: Torotech Co., Ltd.
Address: 4th floor, Tennozu Center Tower, 2-2-24 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
License Number: Tokyo Governor's Travel Business Registration No. 2-5234
Travel Industry Association Name: Full Member of National Travel Industry Association
Reminders
A minimum of 2 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date
In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 17:00). Notifications will then be sent via email
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
The tour guide mainly provides English explanation services. Please be advised that Chinese explanations are not available.
Please reserve time to arrive at the meeting point. The tour guide will depart on time. No extra refunds will be given for latecomers. Thank you for your understanding.
MATCHA CAFE Nikko Teapot is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, so don't miss it.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 11 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- For cancellations made 8 to 10 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 20% will apply
- For cancellations made 2 to 7 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 30% will apply
- For cancellations made 1 to 1 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 40% will apply
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–0 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.
FAQs
1. What are the admission requirements for Rinno-ji Temple and Toshogu Shrine?
To access certain areas within Rinno-ji Temple, such as the Sanbutsudo Hall, and the main shrine complex of Toshogu Shrine, specific admission is required. These sites often have separate entry points for different sections. A guided tour typically includes the necessary admissions to explore the key highlights of both UNESCO World Heritage sites, ensuring a seamless experience.
2. What is the historical significance of Rinno-ji Temple and its must-see features?
Rinno-ji Temple is a significant UNESCO World Heritage site, founded in the 8th century by the Buddhist monk Shodo Shonin. It played a crucial role in establishing Buddhism in Nikko. Its most prominent feature is the Sanbutsudo Hall, which houses three majestic gold-lacquered wooden statues of Amida Nyorai, Senju Kannon, and Bato Kannon, representing the mountain deities of Nikko.
3. What architectural highlights can visitors expect at Nikko Toshogu Shrine?
Nikko Toshogu Shrine is renowned for its extraordinarily lavish and detailed architecture, combining Shinto and Buddhist elements. Must-see highlights include the ornate Yomeimon Gate, also known as the 'Higurashi-mon' or Twilight Gate, due to its intricate carvings that visitors can gaze upon all day. Other famous carvings include the 'Sleeping Cat' and the 'Three Wise Monkeys' depicting 'see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil'.
4. What are the recommended public transportation options to reach Rinno-ji Temple and Toshogu Shrine?
From JR or Tobu Nikko Station, you can easily reach Rinno-ji Temple and Toshogu Shrine by local bus. The 'World Heritage Sightseeing Bus' offers convenient access directly to the area where both sites are located. Alternatively, it's about a 20-30 minute uphill walk from the stations to the temple and shrine complex, allowing you to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
5. What makes the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Rinno-ji Temple and Toshogu Shrine in Nikko significant?
Rinno-ji Temple and Toshogu Shrine, along with Futarasan jinja, collectively form the 'Shrines and Temples of Nikko' UNESCO World Heritage site. Their significance lies in their architectural brilliance, intricate artistry, and deep historical connections to Japanese religious and political figures, particularly the Tokugawa shogunate. They represent a unique blend of Shinto and Buddhist traditions that flourished together.
6. What kind of guided experience is provided during the tour of Rinno-ji Temple and Toshogu Shrine?
The tour provides an immersive experience with a professional English-speaking guide. They offer detailed introductions to the rich history, cultural significance, and architectural details of both Rinno-ji Temple and Toshogu Shrine. This expert guidance enhances understanding of these UNESCO World Heritage sites, providing insights you might miss when exploring independently.
7. How can visitors utilize the matcha sweets voucher included with the tour?
The tour includes a special gift voucher for matcha dessert. Visitors can use this voucher at a popular local souvenir shop near the shrine and temple area. You will typically have a choice between two delicious matcha dessert options, providing a delightful taste of Nikko's local flavors and a perfect way to conclude your visit.
8. How much time should be allocated to fully experience Rinno-ji Temple and Toshogu Shrine?
To thoroughly experience both Rinno-ji Temple and Toshogu Shrine, including their main halls, intricate carvings, and serene grounds, it is recommended to allocate at least 3 to 4 hours. This allows ample time for exploration, appreciation of the detailed architecture, and learning about their historical significance without feeling rushed.
