Texture and pattern at Tōshō-gū

Focusing on detail at Nikko's most famous shrine

Cathy Cawood Aug 03, 2016 - 1 min read

Roof tiles contrast with fresh green maple leaves

Dragon carved on a pillar, with cracked wood showing his age

Intricately carved pattern overlaid with the patina of time

Newly restored and painted window screen

Nikko's Tōshō-gū is one of Japan's UNESCO World Heritage sites and rightly so. The buildings are covered with fabulous wooden carvings. Currently the Karamon gate is being restored, and is shrouded in scaffolding and canvas. However, don't let that put you off visiting this incredible shrine because there is still plenty to see.

More info

Find out more about Nikko Toshogu Shrine.

Cathy Cawood @cathy.cawood

I came to Japan in 2003 to teach English. I lived in Shiga prefecture for 1 year, and it still holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Kyoto for 9 years, then moved to Machida, Tokyo in 2014 after meeting my Japanese partner. I love to take photos, and my Japan in Pictures Facebook page ha...