Toshogu Shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate that ruled Japan for over 250 years. As part of the network of Toshogu shrines throughout Japan, this Kanagawa shrine honors the deified shogun who established the peaceful Edo period.
- Denomination
- Toshogu
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tokugawa Ieyasu
- Kami enshrined
- Tokugawa Ieyasu
- Founding
- Edo period
- Coordinates
- 35.4906173, 139.3212625
Visitor tip
Visit during spring or autumn when the shrine grounds are particularly beautiful with seasonal foliage.
Cultural notes
Ieyasu was deified as Tosho Daigongen, meaning 'Great Gongen who illuminates the East,' reflecting his role in bringing peace and stability to Japan. Toshogu shrines typically feature elaborate decorations befitting the status of the Tokugawa family.
Historical note
Toshogu shrines were established to venerate Tokugawa Ieyasu after his death in 1616, when he was deified as Tosho Daigongen. The network of Toshogu shrines across Japan reflects the political and spiritual influence of the Tokugawa family during the Edo period (1603-1868).