Kishu Toshogu Shrine

Overview

Kishu Toshogu Shrine, overlooking Wakaura Bay's inlet on Zoka Mountain, boasts a history dating back to 1619. When Tokugawa Yorinobu, the tenth son of Tokugawa Ieyasu, became the lord of the Kishu domain, he planned the construction of a Toshogu shrine to protect the entire Nankaido region. Construction was completed in 1621. The main shrine building, while employing traditional Japanese architectural styles, is a luxurious structure filled with highlights such as carvings attributed to Hidari Jingoro and murals by Kano Tan'yu. Both the interior and exterior are lacquered in black and red, with intricate joinery and carvings richly embellished with vibrant colors and gilded metal fittings. Its splendor truly earns it the title of "Nikko of Kansai." The approach to the shrine is lined with lush trees and paved with blue stones, bordered by low stone walls. A sharp turn reveals a steep flight of 108 stone steps. Stone lanterns donated by the retainers line both sides of the approach and steps, offering a glimpse into the shrine's history. At the southern end of the high ground, the gate faces south, flanked by east and west corridors. A slightly elevated area on the north side of the shrine grounds, about 2 meters higher, features a Karamon gate and a sacred fence, beyond which stands the main hall. The main shrine building, haiden (worship hall), ishi-no-ma (stone room), and honden (main hall) are combined into a single structure in the Gongen-zukuri style. A three-story pagoda and Yakushi-do hall once stood to the right and left of the main shrine building, respectively. Kishu Toshogu Shrine is a true symbol of Wakaura, a harmonious blend of history, culture, and nature. When visiting Wakaura, be sure to pay it a visit.