Nikko Toshogu

Nikko Toshogu is a Shinto shrine located in Nikko, Japan, that serves as the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Ieyasu was the founder and first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan for over 250 years.

The shrine complex is distinguished by its elaborate architectural style featuring vibrant polychrome carvings and gold leaf. The most famous carving is the "Three Wise Monkeys" (hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil), located on the Sacred Stable.

While the original shrine was established in 1617, the current complex was largely completed in 1636 by Tokugawa Iemitsu. The massive construction project involved the labor of thousands of artisans to create its incredibly ornate structures.

A famous carving of an elephant, created by the sculptor Jingoro Hidari, appears on the Yomeimon Gate. Legend has it that the artist had never seen a real elephant and carved it entirely from descriptions, which is why the animal features unusual proportions.