Okushahoto (Treasure Tower) 🏯🕉️

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Address:
2301 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture 321-1431, Japan 📍 (Located in the Okumiya area of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, near Sakashitamon Gate and Nemuri-neko, a 15-20 minute walk from the Shinkyo Bridge or Taiyuin/Futarasanjinja-mae bus stops.)

Atmosphere/Location:
Okushahoto, or Treasure Tower (sometimes called the Sacred Pagoda or Okusha Hoto), is a 5-meter-tall bronze pagoda located in the Okumiya area, the most sacred part of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 🏛️ The pagoda houses the ashes of Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa clan, and is the destination of the 207-step climb from Sakashitamon Gate (with Nemuri-neko carvings). 🌲 The atmosphere around Okumiya is tranquil and spiritual. Surrounded by towering cedar groves and a mystical stone wall, the pagoda is constructed of bronze and sits on an eight-tiered stone base. Its simple yet elegant design contrasts with the grandeur of the Yōmeimon Gate. 🛕 In front of the pagoda stands an altar decorated with vases, incense burners, and crane-shaped candlesticks, gifts from the Korean king at the time. 🕊️ However, climbing the stairs can be challenging for some, and during peak seasons like autumn (October-November), it can be crowded, leading to long queues for photos. English information boards are limited. 🙈

Highlights:
• Tokugawa Ieyasu's Mausoleum: Okushahoto is the burial place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa clan that ruled Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). 🏯 It was first built of wood in 1621 and rebuilt in bronze in 1683 by the fifth shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, after the earthquake. This pagoda has never been opened since its completion.
• Offerings from Korea: In front of the pagoda are vases, incense burners, and crane-shaped candlesticks, gifts from the Korean king, reflecting the diplomatic relations of the time. 🕊️
• Simplicity yet Sacred: While Okushahoto may not be as grand as Yōmeimon Gate, the simple bronze pagoda and its setting in a pine forest exude a sense of tranquility and spiritual power. 🛕
• Sacred Path: Climbing the 207 steps through the Nemuri-neko to reach Okushahoto is a pilgrimage-like experience. Visitors will feel reverence for Ieyasu and the grandeur of the Edo period. 🚶♂️
• Autumn View: During the fall (October-November), the area around Okushahoto is lined with red and orange leaves, creating a picturesque scene perfect for photography. Especially when the sunlight streams through the pine forest. 📸

Average price per person:
• Nikko Toshogu Shrine Admission (including Okumiya and Okumiya): 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 ⭐
Okushahoto A spiritual and historical destination in Nikko Toshogu Shrine 🌟 Climbing the 207 steps to reach the bronze pagoda housing Tokugawa Ieyasu feels like experiencing living history 🙏 The simplicity of the pagoda and the offerings from Korea add to its cultural appeal. Minus points because the stairs can be challenging for some, and during peak season (October-November), it can be crowded with queues for photos. English information boards are also limited. 🙈 It is recommended to visit in the morning (9:00) to avoid the crowds and experience the tranquility, especially in autumn when the leaves around Okusahoto turn beautiful colors. 🍂