Tōshō-gū

Tōshō-gū is the major shrine in Nikko, a whole complex of elaborate buildings in a perfect natural setting. It was built in 1617 and is dedicated to Tokugawa Leyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. We're talking Edo period.

The gate beckons.

Just past the entrance are the Sanjinko, sacred storehouses. Next up, the hall, Shinkyusha.

Up to the main attraction of the complex, to Yomei-mon, the sunset gate. No need to look for any sun on this day.

The top of the gate, a cake-like, over-the-top carved and gold leaf extravaganza. A side detail.

Some solitary fall color, delicate for a delicacy.

Patina and gold, a nice combination. If you're lucky, or have connections, or both, or more, you can get married there.

A nice look at the angles of the architecture within the mist and trees.

A Pilgrimage To The Futarasan-jinja Shrine In Nikko

Nothing like a beautiful shrine from 1619, set in a mystical landscape, to humble a person. Futarasan-jinji is Nikko's oldest structure and it's the protector of the city itself. Oh, and stunning.

The main shrine.

Impressive steps leading to the complex. Roof detail, landscape awe.

Off to the side, a fantasyland of old Japan.

Japanese Ema, prayer tablets. This one depicts the famous local Shin-kyo bridge. Another slice of Nikko environment porn.

Wall of old Sake barrels. Just to mix it up.