Futarasan Shrine (Futarasan Jinja)

Futarasan Shrine (二荒山神社, Futarasan Jinja) is a historic Shinto shrine in central Nikko, standing beside the lavish Toshogu Shrine. Founded in 782 by Shodo Shonin, the monk who introduced Buddhism to Nikko, it is dedicated to the deities of Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro. The shrine’s peaceful grounds include sacred trees, a spring, and traditional halls, with a small paid area offering closer views of the honden. The iconic Shinkyo Bridge, located one kilometer away, is also part of the shrine complex.

Beyond the central shrine, two more Futarasan Shrines can be found in Okunikko—one on Mount Nantai’s summit and another at Lake Chuzenji’s northern shore, marking the start of the hiking trail. These mountain shrines enhance Futarasan’s deep spiritual connection to Nikko’s sacred peaks, making it a must-visit for both history lovers and nature enthusiasts.