From behind the window of the bus we were
riding in, we could see a stunning view of the mountains. It was just the start
of summer, the green leaves and grass look young and fresh, spreading across
the mountains. The tour guide said that in autumn the view is even more
beautiful, the leaves turn red and turn golden yellow before they fall,
providing a stunning panorama along the way. We can only imagine it, from the
photos we have seen, with the dream of one day being able to enjoy the original
view in autumn. Of course, autumn is the busiest season, tourists, domestic and
foreign, plan their trips here well in advance.
We were on our way from Tokyo to the Nikko
mountains. Nikko is a historical place with beautiful views of the mountains
north of Tokyo. The existence of historical places located on the slopes of the
mountains, complemented by their rural charm, has inspired the saying:
"Never say kekko until you see Nikko", meaning that if you go to
Japan, never be satisfied until you see Nikko.
Our first stop was Toshugu Shrine. Tosho is the
honorary name given to Tokugawa Ieyasu after his death, because this shrine is
the burial place of Tokugawa Ieyasu. He was a Japanese samurai leader who led
and unified Japan in the 17th century. He founded the Tokugawa Shogunate which
ruled for more than 250 years, making him a prominent samurai figure in
Japanese history. Like other Japanese leaders, his spirit is considered sacred
and this shrine was built to house his spirit, according to Shinto beliefs. Therefore,
this temple is full of historical value and is very sacred because this temple
is the burial place and residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu's spirit.
From the entrance to the rear shrine, Toshogu
is connected by an uplhill street that is quite wide. At the end of the path,
there is a large Gate, called Torri (Ishidorii). The stone made Torri marks the
entrance to Toshogu Shrine, which according to Shinto beliefs represents the gate
to a holy place.
Usually, Shinto shrines are kept simple by
considering harmony with the natural surroundings, inviting visitors to offer
prayers and offerings at these shrines. Not so with Toshogu Shrine. This temple
is a combination of a Shinto Temple and a Buddhist Temple, giving this temple a
majestic dimension. Simplicity is not a consideration at all, the buildings are
instead rich with ornaments of various colors, including gold leaf decoration,
which can amaze visitors who observe them.
THE END
Source:
https://www.kanpai-japan.com/nikko/toshogu
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