Rinnoji Temple (Sanbutsudo Hall)
日光山輪王寺（三仏堂）
The main hall of Rinnoji Temple, one of Nikko's "Two Shrines and One Temple," and the largest wooden building in Nikko. It's known for its principal images: three large gilded seated Buddha statues, each 7.5 meters tall, of the Tendai sect.
Three great Buddha statues, each 7.5 meters tall
The Sanbutsudo ("Three Buddha Hall") enshrines three large seated statues, each about 7.5 meters tall: Amida Nyorai, Senju (Thousand-Armed) Kannon, and Bato (Horse-Headed) Kannon. Covered in gold leaf, they present an overwhelming presence, and it's said that Amida Nyorai represents Mount Nantai, Senju Kannon represents Mount Nyoho, and Bato Kannon represents Mount Taro, embodying the mountain worship of the Nikko Sanzan (three sacred mountains).
The largest wooden building in Nikko
Founded by Shodo Shonin during the Nara period, the current Sanbutsudo hall was rebuilt in 1645 and is the largest wooden structure in Nikko. Its scale and dignified appearance are worth seeing in their own right, distinct from Toshogu's ornate decoration.
Related to the World Heritage complex
Rinnoji Temple, together with Toshogu Shrine and Futarasan Shrine, forms Nikko's "Two Shrines and One Temple" and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple's treasure hall and Shoyoen Garden are also nearby, making them convenient to visit together.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
Cherry blossoms near the grounds add color to a visit.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
The deep green of the cedar forest creates a solemn atmosphere for worship.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
The contrast between the autumn leaves on the grounds and the hall is beautiful.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
The snow-covered grounds convey a particularly sacred stillness.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 30-40 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Somewhat less crowded than Toshogu Shrine
- Best time to visit
- Efficient to combine with Shoyoen Garden and Taiyuin
| Address | 2300 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi |
|---|---|
| Hours | April-October 8:00-17:00, November-March 8:00-16:00 |
| Admission | Adults ¥400 (Sanbutsudo only) / combination ticket also available |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 20 min walk from Tobu-Nikko Station (Or about 7 minutes by Tobu Bus bound for "Chuzenji Onsen," get off at "Shoyoen-mae," then a 3-minute walk)