Kunozan Toshogu
Discover Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, the original burial site of Tokugawa Ieyasu, offering golden architecture and breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Kunozan Toshogu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, the original burial site of Tokugawa Ieyasu, offering golden architecture and breathtaking views.
"A must-visit for history buffs, with stunning views and a tangible connection to Japan's feudal past."
Choose Your Ascent
Opt for the ropeway for ease or the stone stairs for a rewarding climb. :athletic_shoe:
Weekday Wonders
Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend rush and enjoy a more serene experience. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kunozan Toshogu Shrine
Summit of Kunozan Mountain
A stunning, golden shrine dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, offering breathtaking views.
Kunozan Toshogu Museum
Adjacent to the shrine
See Tokugawa Ieyasu's personal artifacts, including his impressive samurai armor.
Panoramic Views
From the shrine grounds
Enjoy sweeping vistas of Suruga Bay and Shizuoka City, with potential glimpses of Mt. Fuji.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ascend to History
A Glimpse into the Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose Your Ascent
Opt for the ropeway for ease or the stone stairs for a rewarding climb. :athletic_shoe:
Weekday Wonders
Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend rush and enjoy a more serene experience. :calendar:
Museum Treasures
Don't miss the museum's collection of Tokugawa Ieyasu's personal items, especially his armor. :museum:
Capture the View
On clear days, the views of Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji are spectacular. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Choose Your Ascent
Opt for the ropeway for ease or the stone stairs for a rewarding climb. :athletic_shoe:
Weekday Wonders
Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend rush and enjoy a more serene experience. :calendar:
Museum Treasures
Don't miss the museum's collection of Tokugawa Ieyasu's personal items, especially his armor. :museum:
Capture the View
On clear days, the views of Suruga Bay and Mt. Fuji are spectacular. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kunozan Toshogu Shrine for its historical significance as Tokugawa Ieyasu's burial site and its stunning panoramic views of Suruga Bay. The adjacent museum, featuring Ieyasu's personal artifacts like his armor, is a major highlight for history enthusiasts. While the journey to the shrine can be challenging, the overall experience is described as deeply rewarding and historically enriching.
"Tucked away in the scenic surroundings of Kunōzan Tōshōgū Shrine, the Kunōzan Tōshōgū Museum is a fascinating small museum that offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. For history buffs or anyone interested in Japan’s feudal era, this museum is a hidden treasure.
The highlight of the collection is the personal artifacts that once belonged to Ieyasu himself, including his impressive suit of armor. Seeing these items up close, especially the beautifully crafted armor, makes history feel tangible and real. The display also includes swords, calligraphy, and other personal effects, providing a deeper understanding of the man who shaped Japan’s history."
Wisanu Tuntawiroon
"Amazingly well-maintained. Go on a weekday if you can. A temple with steep stairs, overlooking the ocean Pacific.
Rumor has it this is the tomb of a famous warrior, and the only way to open his crypt is with three keys, scattered in different directions from the tomb.
Oh, and gondola ride. You can hike up from sea level, or drive to the gondola station at top of hill. They made it really hard to get to, to keep the entitled riff raff away."
zfunk monk
"No photos allowed, but it is a small and modest exhibition with a couple of swords and personal items including samuray armors"
rosa Dominguez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Kunozan Toshogu Shrine by either climbing the steep stone stairs from sea level or by driving to the ropeway station and taking a scenic gondola ride up the mountain. Some visitors mention the difficulty of access as a way to preserve its exclusivity.
Yes, parking is available at the ropeway station if you choose to ascend that way.
While direct bus routes to the shrine itself are limited, you can take a bus to Shizuoka City and then arrange local transport or head to the ropeway station.
Shizuoka is accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train) from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, making it a convenient destination for a day trip or part of a larger Japan itinerary.
The stone stairs can be challenging. The ropeway offers a more accessible option, but some areas within the shrine complex may still involve uneven terrain.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kunozan Toshogu Shrine is generally open from morning to late afternoon. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally.
There is an admission fee for both the shrine and the museum. The ropeway also has a separate fare. Prices are subject to change, so it's best to verify on-site or online.
Advance booking is typically not required for Kunozan Toshogu Shrine. However, purchasing tickets for the ropeway might be more convenient during peak seasons.
Information on special passes or discounts is not widely publicized. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter or check the official website for any available offers.
The museum is located within the shrine complex, so an admission ticket to the shrine is generally required to access the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas of the shrine, but it is strictly prohibited inside the museum and certain sacred buildings to protect the artifacts.
The main shrine buildings with their golden decorations offer stunning photo opportunities. The panoramic views of Suruga Bay from the grounds are also highly recommended. 
Yes, on clear days, the view of Mt. Fuji from the shrine grounds is a popular photo subject.
Drone usage is typically not permitted at historical and religious sites like Kunozan Toshogu Shrine to ensure the safety and tranquility of visitors and the preservation of the site.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for the shrine's interior, while a wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Kunozan Toshogu is historically significant as the original burial place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, making it the oldest of the Toshogu shrines.
Tokugawa Ieyasu was a pivotal figure in Japanese history, unifying the country after a long period of civil war and establishing the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan for over 250 years.
While both are dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, Kunozan Toshogu is his burial site, whereas Nikko Toshogu enshrines his spirit as a deity. Kunozan is considered the original.
The museum displays personal artifacts of Tokugawa Ieyasu, including his armor, swords, calligraphy, and other personal effects, offering a tangible connection to his life.
While not a UNESCO site itself, Kunozan Toshogu is a designated National Treasure of Japan, highlighting its immense cultural and historical importance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the stone stairs might be too strenuous for very young children, the ropeway makes the shrine accessible. The museum, with its samurai armor and historical artifacts, can spark curiosity about Japan's past. 🚶 History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
+1 The Kunozan Toshogu Museum is a highlight, housing Ieyasu's personal artifacts, including his armor, which brings history to life in a tangible way. 📸 Photography Lovers
The panoramic views of Suruga Bay and the potential for capturing Mt. Fuji on a clear day are unparalleled. +1 Remember that photography is restricted inside the museum, so focus your lens on the exterior grandeur and the breathtaking landscapes. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Kunozan Toshogu
For those who choose the stairs, it's a test of endurance, but the historical atmosphere and the gradual reveal of the shrine as you ascend add to the experience.
The journey is part of what makes Kunozan Toshogu a unique destination, setting it apart from more easily accessible landmarks. It's worth noting that the shrine's somewhat difficult access is even mentioned by travelers as a deliberate feature, perhaps to preserve its tranquility and exclusivity.
A Glimpse into Tokugawa Ieyasu's Legacy
+1 This makes it the oldest of the Toshogu shrines in Japan, predating the more famous Nikko Toshogu. The shrine itself is a testament to the era, with its intricate carvings and vibrant golden decorations, reflecting the power and influence of the Tokugawa clan. +1The adjacent Kunozan Toshogu Museum offers a more intimate look into Ieyasu's life. It houses a remarkable collection of his personal belongings, including his battle armor, swords, and calligraphy.
While photography is restricted inside the museum, the experience of viewing these historical items is deeply impactful.
Capturing the Beauty: Views and Photography
On clear days, the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji can also be seen, adding another layer of natural beauty to the already stunning scenery. +1 These expansive views make it a prime location for photography enthusiasts. While photography is generally permitted in the outdoor areas, visitors should be aware that it is strictly prohibited inside the museum and within certain sacred buildings to protect the historical artifacts and maintain the sanctity of the site.
Travelers often recommend visiting on a clear day to maximize the chances of seeing Mt. Fuji and to fully appreciate the coastal scenery.
The combination of historical architecture, natural beauty, and the potential for iconic views makes Kunozan Toshogu a photographer's delight, offering a blend of cultural immersion and scenic exploration. 
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit