There are many attractions at Toshougu Shrine in Nikko, for tourists of all ages. I noticed that the adults are mostly interested in the Yomeimon Gate, but the children’s favorite attraction is the Shinkyu-Sha, the stable for the sacred horse, the building with the famous three wise monkeys.

The horse’s name is Koha (meaning “gift” in Maori) and was donated by the New Zealand’s Government, as a token of friendship. The “sacred horse” designation means that he is used in the shrine ceremonies (and he is the only sacred horse from abroad in a Japanese shrine).

Travel tip: If you wish to see Koha, you have to visit Shinkyu-Sha between 10am and 2pm, since the rest of the time he is kept in a different, modern stable.

Toshougu Shrine, Shinkyu-Sha, Nikko

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