Shinkyuusha (Sanzaru, Three Monkeys) 🐒🙈🙉🙊

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

Atmosphere/Location:
Shinkyuusha, or Sacred Stable, is a building within Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a shrine dedicated to Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. 🏯 It is located near Omotemon Gate and Gojū-no-tō (Five-Storied Pagoda), surrounded by a lush cedar forest. 🌲 The atmosphere around Shinkyuusha is steeped in sacredness, combined with the bustling atmosphere of tourists who come to take photos and admire its beauty. 🙏

Shinkyuusha is a sacred stable used to house horses for shrine rituals and is famous for its sculptures of three wise monkeys, or "Sanzaru," depicting the philosophy behind the temple. "See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil." 🙈🙉🙊 The eight carvings on the building depict the cycle of human life. The second panel, featuring the three monkeys, is known worldwide. 🐒 However, due to its proximity to the shrine's main entrance, it can be crowded during peak seasons, such as autumn. The carvings are smaller than expected, making them difficult to miss if not carefully observed. 🙈

Highlights:
• Three Wise Monkeys (Sanzaru): The three monkeys—Mizaru (eyes closed), Kikazaru (ears closed), and Iwazaru (mouth closed)—symbolize the Tendai Buddhist philosophy of avoiding evil in childhood. 🙈🙉🙊 They are the second of eight panels, which depict the cycle of human life, from childhood to old age. They are believed to protect the shrine's sacred horses.
• Intricate carvings: The eight panels tell profound stories, such as growing up, facing adversity, and returning to family. The craftsmanship of Edo-period artisans (perhaps Hidari Jingoro) has made this carving an Important Cultural Property. 🪵
• Cultural Significance: Monkeys in Shintoism are considered messengers of the gods and are also believed to protect horses from disease. 🐎 Sanzaru is therefore not only a work of art but also reflects ancient beliefs and rituals.
• Location within Toshogu Shrine: Shinkyuusha is near the main entrance of the shrine, easily recognizable before approaching the Yomeimon Gate, or Nemurineko (Sleeping Cat). 🐒
• Autumn View: From October to November, the area is illuminated with vibrant red and orange leaves. Create a beautiful photo scene 📸

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

Rating:
⭐ 4.5/5
Shinkyuusha and the Three Wise Monkeys are among the must-see highlights of Nikko. Toshogu Shrine 🌟 The world-famous three monkey sculptures reflect both Japanese philosophy and culture. 🙈🙉🙊 The tranquil atmosphere and the surrounding nature add to the mystical atmosphere of the visit. Note that the size of the carvings is smaller than expected, and during peak season, it can be crowded and difficult to take photos. It is recommended to come early in the morning (around 9:00) to avoid the crowds and get beautiful light. 🍂