Rinnoji Temple

Rinnoji (輪王寺, Rinnōji) is the most important temple in Nikko, founded by Shodo Shonin, the monk who introduced Buddhism to the region in the 8th century. Its main building, Sanbutsudo, holds gold-lacquered statues of Amida, Senju-Kannon, and Bato-Kannon, representing Buddhist manifestations of Nikko's three mountain deities.

Opposite the main building is the temple's treasure house, featuring Buddhist and Tokugawa exhibits. Behind it is Shoyoen, a beautiful Japanese garden, popular in autumn when its maples create stunning views around the central pond.