Okumiya Haiden (Worship Hall) 🙏🏯

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Review: Okumiya Haiden (Worship Hall) - Nikko Toshogu Shrine 🙏🏯

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 up the 207 stone steps from the main shrine. It's a 15-20 minute walk from the Shinkyo Bridge bus stop.)

Atmosphere/Location:
The Okumiya Haiden, or Worship Hall in the Inner Mausoleum (Okumiya), is the most sacred part of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a shrine dedicated to Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu. 🏛️ The Haiden is located at the top of 207 stone steps that wind through a lush and tranquil cedar forest. 🌲 The atmosphere around the Haiden is filled with a sense of tranquility and mysticism. It's like being transported to a spiritual world, separated from the hustle and bustle of the main shrine grounds. 🙏

The Haiden itself is a simple wooden building, painted vermilion and decorated with intricate, yet not overly ornate, details to pay homage to Ieyasu. 😌 The scent of incense and the sound of the wind blowing through the trees create a profound sense of tranquility, especially when looking back down to the Yomeimon Gate and the main shrine grounds. 🌄 However, the stairs can be challenging for those with health issues, and during peak seasons like autumn (October-November), it can be crowded with tourists, requiring long queues for photos. Furthermore, English information boards are limited. 🙈

Highlights:
• Sacred History: It was used to offer offerings to Tokugawa Ieyasu before entering the actual mausoleum (Okushahoto). It was once restricted to only the shogun. Built to honor the founder of the Tokugawa clan. 🏯
• Panoramic view: You can look down on the main part of Toshogu Shrine, including the Yomeimon Gate and the five-story pagoda. 📸 Especially beautiful on a clear day or in autumn. 🍁
• Profound simplicity: Unlike the grandeur of the Yomeimon Gate, this place emphasizes modesty to reflect philosophy. “Simple but sacred” 🙏
• Pilgrimage Route: Climbing the stairs past Nemuri-neko (Sleeping Cats) to reach the Haiden is a pilgrimage-like experience. 🚶♂️
• Festivals and Events: During festivals such as the Procession of 1000 Samurai (May and October), lively rituals are held. 🎉

Average Price per Person:
• Nikko Toshogu Shrine Admission (including Okumiya Haiden): 1,600 yen (approximately 380 baht) Adults, 450 yen (approximately 105 baht) Children 🎟️
• Toshogu Shrine and Taiyū-in Mausoleum Combination Ticket: 2,100 yen (approximately 500 baht) Adults
• Bus fare from Tobu Nikko Station or JR Nikko to Shinkyo Bridge: 320 yen (approximately 75 baht) or a one-day pass for 600 yen 🚌
• Tobu Nikko Pass (4 Day: 4,600 yen (approximately 1,100 baht) including bus and train travel within the Nikko area.

Rating:
⭐ 4.5/5
Okumiya Haiden is the most peaceful and profound destination at Nikko Toshogu Shrine 🌟. The simplicity of the shrine, nestled amidst the forest, and the panoramic view of the main shrine evoke the spiritual power and history of Tokugawa Ieyasu 🙏. The climb up the stairs to reach it is a worthwhile and memorable experience. The only downside is that the stairs are steep, so they may not be suitable for everyone. And during peak season, it can get incredibly crowded, disrupting the tranquility.

Tip:
• Use the Tobu Nikko Pass to save on transportation and visit other attractions like Kegon Falls or Lake Chuzenji. 🚌
• Combine a visit to Okumiya Haiden with Nemuri-neko, Yomeimon Gate, and the Three Wise Monkeys for a complete Toshogu Shrine experience. 🐒
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, and take breaks along the way up the stairs. 🚶♂️
• Visit during fall (November) to enjoy the vibrant colors of nature surrounding Haiden. 🍁
• Take photos from the top of Haiden to see Yomeimon Gate and the main shrine. 📸