UNESCO Nikko Toshogu | Three Wise Monkeys, Yomeimon & Sleeping Cat | Nikko, Japan

Experience Nikko Toshogu, one of Japan’s most celebrated shrines and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Shrines and Temples of Nikko.”

This guided experience takes you through the richly decorated shrine complex, including the famous Three Wise Monkeys, Yomeimon Gate, Karamon Gate, the Sleeping Cat, and Okumiya, where Tokugawa Ieyasu is believed to be laid to rest.

Discover the meaning behind some of Toshogu’s most famous carvings.

The Three Wise Monkeys represent “See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil.” In Japanese, “mizaru, iwazaru, kikazaru” also contains a wordplay on “saru,” meaning monkey.

At Yomeimon, one pillar was deliberately installed with its decorative pattern reversed. According to tradition, leaving something intentionally imperfect was believed to prevent decline and help it endure.

Another highlight is the National Treasure known as the Sleeping Cat. On its reverse side are two sparrows. Although cats and sparrows are natural enemies, the peaceful scene is traditionally interpreted as a symbol of a world without conflict and a wish for lasting peace.

The tour continues to Okumiya, where Tokugawa Ieyasu is believed to be laid to rest, before returning toward Honjido Hall, famous for its “Crying Dragon.”

Filmed in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan.
Created by BAKANCE INC.