Rinnoji Temple
輪王寺
Nikko's largest Tendai temple; its Sanbutsu Hall enshrines three giant golden Buddhas, and its sub-temple Taiyūin is the mausoleum of the third shogun, Iemitsu.
Rinnoji is the head temple of Nikko's mountains, tracing its origins to the Shihonryū-ji temple founded in 766 by Shōdō Shōnin, and is an important Tendai temple. Its main hall, the Sanbutsu-dō, is one of the largest wooden buildings in eastern Japan. It houses three gilded seated statues about 8 meters tall, Amida Nyorai, Senju Kannon and Batō Kannon, each corresponding to one of the three sacred mountains of Nikko. Beside the Sanbutsu-dō, the Shōyōen is a strolling pond garden from the Edo period, where autumn foliage is reflected in the water and which is especially charming when lit at night. The Treasure House holds Buddhist statues and Tokugawa family items. The sub-temple Taiyūin, beside Futarasan Shrine, is the mausoleum of the third shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu. Its architecture resembles Tōshō-gū's but with a more subdued palette dominated by black and gold; the Nitenmon gate, Yashamon gate and worship hall are all exquisite. It is less crowded and quiet, and highly recommended. Admission: Sanbutsu-dō about ¥400, Taiyūin about ¥550 (combined tickets also available). Access: walk about 5 minutes up the Kamisaka slope opposite Shinkyo Bridge, or take a bus and get off at the Shōdō Shōnin Statue stop.
Opening hours
Apr–Oct 8:00 am–5:00 pm; Nov–Mar 8:00 am–4:00 pm
Nearby sights
- Shinkyo Bridge
- Nikko Toshogu Shrine
- Futarasan Shrine
- Taiyuin Mausoleum
- Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park
- Kanmangafuchi Abyss
- Kirifuri Falls
- Kirifuri Kogen Highland