basic information

Rinnoji is Nikko's most important temple. It was founded by Shodo Shonin, the Buddhist monk who introduced Buddhism to Nikko in the 8th century.

The temple's main building, the Sanbutsudo, houses large, gold lacquered, wooden statues of Amida, Senju-Kannon ("Kannon with a thousand arms") and Bato-Kannon ("Kannon with a horse head"). The three deities are regarded as Buddhist manifestations of Nikko's three mountain kami ("Shinto gods") enshrined at Futarasan Shrine.

Opposite Sanbutsudo stands the temple's treasure house with Buddhist and Tokugawa related exhibits. Shoyoen, a small Japanese style garden, is located next to the treasure house.

To view the interior of the Sanbutsudo, it is recommended to purchase a combination ticket which also includes admission to the Toshogu, Taiyuinbyo and Futarasan Shrine. However, a separate admission fee applies to Rinnoji's treasure house and Shoyoen. See details below.

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how to get there

Rinnoji's Sanbutsudo stands just a few steps east of Toshogu, a 30 minute walk or 10 minute bus ride (300 Yen one way, 500 Yen day pass, covered by the Tobu free passes) from Tobu and JR Nikko Stations.

How to get to and around Nikko

Hours:

Daily from 8:00 to 17:00 (until 16:00 from November through March).

Admission:

Sanbutsudo:
400 Yen

Treasure House and Shoyoen Garden:
300 Yen

Combination Ticket:
1000 Yen (includes admission to Sanbutsudo, but not to the treasure house and Shoyoen garden. The ticket also includes admission to Toshogu, Taiyuinbyo and Futarasan Shrine.)

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Users who have been to Nikko: 157
Users who have been to Rinnoji Temple: 76

3rd of 6 most visited sights in Nikko.
71st of 386 most visited sights nationwide.

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