My next stop during my visit was to the Taiyuin Mausoleum. Taiyuin is the title given to Iemitsu Tokugawa, the third successive Shogun. After Iemitsu’s death, the Mausoleum was given the designation by Emperor Gokoumyou. This Mausoleum has been standing since 1653. Above is the Nioumon Gate, the first thing to see on the way to Taiyuin Mausoleum.
Above is a close up of the Nitenmon Gate. This is measured as the biggest gate in Nikko.
This is the Yashamon Gate. It is surrounded by 33 copper lanterns which were dedicated by rich Japanese feudal lords.
This is the Koukamon Gate, which leads to the Inner House, otherwise known as Okunoin. The Okunoin is closed to the public so this is as close as I was able to get. This gate is also known as Ryuguumon Gate, Palace of Sea God, and is based on Ming Dynasty designs.
