Gojū-no-tō (Five-Storied Pagoda) 🏯🌟

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Address
2301 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture 321-1431, Japan 📍 Located within the grounds of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, near the Shinkyo Bridge or Taiyuin/Futarasanjinja-mae bus stops, about a 10-minute walk.

Atmosphere/Location
The Gojū-no-tō, or five-story pagoda, is one of the prominent landmarks of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a shrine dedicated to Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. 🏛️ The pagoda is located at the main entrance of the shrine, near Omotemon Gate and Shinkyo Bridge, surrounded by a lush cedar forest. 🌲 The atmosphere around the pagoda is a blend of sacredness, grandeur, and bustling with tourists. 🙏 The pagoda stands 36 meters tall, painted in vermilion and deep green, and is decorated with carvings and wind chimes. 🔔 The architecture blends Buddhist and Shinto art, reflecting the prosperity of the Edo period. ✨ However, it is not accessible inside. And during peak seasons like autumn, it can get crowded with tourists. 🙈

Highlights
• Unique Architecture: The Gojū-no-tō was originally built in 1650 but burned down and was rebuilt in 1818 by the Matsudaira clan. Its central pillars help resist earthquakes. 🏯 Each level of the roof is decorated with carvings of flowers and mythical animals.
• Zodiac Symbols: The base of the pagoda features carvings of the twelve animals of the zodiac, a popular photo spot reflecting Edo-period beliefs. 🐒🐉
• Colors and Balance: The pagoda's reds and greens contrast against the pine forest and sky, making it ideal for photography, especially in the morning. 📸
• Location within Toshogu Shrine: Located near the Yomeimon Gate, Bell Tower, and the Three Wise Monkeys, a visit to the pagoda is a perfect part of a comprehensive Toshogu exploration itinerary. 🐒
• Autumn Views: October to November The red-orange leaves surrounding the pagoda create a beautiful atmosphere. 🍁

Average price per person
• Nikko Toshogu Shrine admission fee (including the pagoda): 1,600 yen (approximately 380 baht) for adults, 450 yen (approximately 105 baht) for children. 🎟️
• Toshogu Shrine and Taiyū-in Mausoleum combined ticket: 2,100 yen (approximately 500 baht) for adults.
• Bus fare from Tobu Nikko Station or JR Nikko to Shinkyo Bridge or Taiyūin/Futarasanjinja-mae: 320 yen (approximately 75 baht), or a one-day pass for 500 yen. 🚌
• Tobu Nikko Pass (4-day pass): 4,600 yen (approximately 1,100 baht), including buses and trains within the Nikko area.

Score
4/5 ⭐
Gojū-no-tō is one of the most important symbols of Nikko Toshogu Shrine and is a must-see. 🌟 The beautiful carvings and vibrant colors contrasting with the pine forest create a sense of sacredness and grandeur. 🏯 Located at the entrance to the shrine and boasting historical value, the pagoda is the perfect starting point for exploring Toshogu. A slight deduction is that it's not possible to enter the interior, and during peak season, it can be so crowded that it's hard to see the details. 🙈 It's best to visit around 9:00 in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best light for photos. 🍂