{"id":1933,"date":"2025-09-08T20:35:36","date_gmt":"2025-09-08T11:35:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/?p=1933"},"modified":"2025-11-25T23:23:05","modified_gmt":"2025-11-25T14:23:05","slug":"three-wise-monkeys-nikko-toshogu","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/three-wise-monkeys-nikko-toshogu\/","title":{"rendered":"Three Wise Monkeys at Nikko Toshogu &#8211; Mizaru, Iwazaru, Kikazaru Explained"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Three Wise Monkeys Nikko Toshogu<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"http:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/2-18-1024x538.webp\" alt=\"Three Wise Monkeys Nikko Toshogu\" class=\"wp-image-1947\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/2-18-1024x538.webp 1024w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/2-18-300x158.webp 300w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/2-18-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/2-18.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Three Wise Monkeys<\/strong> are among the most famous carvings at Nikko Toshogu, and many visitors are eager to locate them quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"swl-marker mark_yellow\">They appear on the Sacred Stable (Shinkyusha)<\/span><\/strong>, a simple wooden building that houses sacred horses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-40 wp-block-paragraph\">Understanding the exact placement of the carvings ensures you won\u2019t miss them in the busy shrine grounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d799.1407133274582!2d139.5983882696235!3d36.75706267273275!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x601fa6c55321b4f7%3A0x55a5e59ffe32c7e6!2z56We5Y6p6IiO!5e0!3m2!1sja!2sjp!4v1757330241803!5m2!1sja!2sjp\" width=\"100%\" height=\"300\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Shinkyusha location and access within Toshogu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-swl-main-color\">The Three Wise Monkeys are carved on the second panel of a wooden frieze<\/mark><\/strong> running along the eaves of Shinkyusha.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This stable stands just inside the paid area of the shrine complex, so <strong>you will encounter it soon after passing through the main gate<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are eight panels in total, with the monkeys placed in a sequence narrating human life stages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-emboss_box\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list is-style-check_list -list-under-dashed\">\n<li>Shinkyusha is located near the entrance to the paid zone.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Eight monkey panels<\/strong> line the stable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The \u201c<strong>See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil<\/strong>\u201d scene is the second panel.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Admission &amp; photo etiquette specific to the monkeys<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"http:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/3-18-1024x538.webp\" alt=\"Admission &amp; photo etiquette specific to the monkeys\" class=\"wp-image-1948\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/3-18-1024x538.webp 1024w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/3-18-300x158.webp 300w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/3-18-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/3-18.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visitors sometimes wonder if photography is allowed at Toshogu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While indoor halls such as Yomeimon or the main sanctuary prohibit pictures, <strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-swl-main-color\">the Shinkyusha carvings are outdoors and can be photographed freely<\/mark><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always respect signage and avoid blocking the path when large tour groups arrive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-crease\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list -list-under-dashed\">\n<li>Photography is permitted at the Sacred Stable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No flash or touching the wooden beams.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep walkways clear for smooth visitor flow.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Three Wise Monkeys Meaning &#8211; The Maxim and the Wordplay<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"http:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/2-18-1024x538.webp\" alt=\"Three Wise Monkeys Meaning - The Maxim and the Wordplay\" class=\"wp-image-1947\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/2-18-1024x538.webp 1024w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/2-18-300x158.webp 300w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/2-18-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/2-18.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The famous gestures of covering the eyes, ears, and mouth carry a deeper lesson.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Japan, <strong>they are tied to a Confucian proverb that urges<\/strong> people to avoid improper sights, words, and sounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This teaching was adopted into Buddhist moral practice and became an emblem of self-discipline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The proverb behind Mizaru \/ Iwazaru \/ Kikazaru<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Each monkey has a name and gesture: Mizaru covers his eyes, Iwazaru covers his mouth, and Kikazaru covers his ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Japanese suffix \u201c-zaru\u201d means \u201cnot to,\u201d creating a direct link between action and prohibition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This explains why the proverb is interpreted as a guide to live ethically rather than to ignore reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-big_icon_hatena\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list -list-under-dashed\">\n<li><strong>Mizaru = \u201csee not\u201d \u2192 covers eyes.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Iwazaru = \u201cspeak not\u201d \u2192 covers mouth.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kikazaru = \u201chear not\u201d \u2192 covers ears.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why monkeys at a stable?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Japanese tradition, <strong><span class=\"swl-marker mark_yellow\">monkeys are guardians of horses<\/span><\/strong>, which explains their placement on a horse stable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The animals were thought to ward off illness or misfortune that could affect valuable steeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additionally, the wordplay between \u201czaru\u201d (negative verb form) and \u201csaru\u201d (monkey) made the imagery both memorable and educational.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-big_icon_point\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list -list-under-dashed\">\n<li>Monkeys were protectors of horses in Japanese lore.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The pun of \u201csaru\u201d (monkey) and \u201c-zaru\u201d (not) adds meaning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Carvings combine religious wisdom with wordplay.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Three Wise Monkeys Panels &#8211; The 8-Panel Life Story in Wood<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"http:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4-17-1024x538.webp\" alt=\"Three Wise Monkeys Panels - The 8-Panel Life Story in Wood\" class=\"wp-image-1949\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4-17-1024x538.webp 1024w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4-17-300x158.webp 300w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4-17-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4-17.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most travelers know the famous second panel, but the Shinkyusha frieze is actually a complete story in eight parts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><span class=\"swl-marker mark_yellow\">Each panel illustrates a stage in human life<\/span><\/strong>, from birth to maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reading them in sequence reveals the full moral journey envisioned by the artisans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reading the sequence (panel order &amp; themes)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To understand the monkeys in context, consider the full cycle of eight panels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The narrative begins with the birth of a child, moves through childhood, and highlights stages of love, friendship, and family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The final scenes show maturity and preparation for the next generation.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"c-scrollHint _\"><span>Scrollable <i class=\"icon-more_arrow\"><\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<figure data-table-scrollable=\"sp\" class=\"wp-block-table\"><table style=\"--table-width:800px;\"><thead><tr><th>Panel<\/th><th>Scene<\/th><th>Theme<\/th><th>What to Notice<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>1<\/td><td>Birth of a child<\/td><td>Innocence begins<\/td><td>Mother monkey cradling baby<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2<\/td><td>Three Wise Monkeys<\/td><td>Moral teaching<\/td><td>Eyes, ears, and mouth covered<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3<\/td><td>Youth with ambition<\/td><td>Growing independence<\/td><td>Monkey gazes at horizon<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4<\/td><td>Companionship<\/td><td>Value of friendship<\/td><td>Two monkeys side by side<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5<\/td><td>Love and marriage<\/td><td>Forming bonds<\/td><td>Pairing of male and female<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>6<\/td><td>Pregnancy<\/td><td>Continuation of life<\/td><td>Female monkey expecting<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>7<\/td><td>Parenting<\/td><td>Responsibility<\/td><td>Family group with child<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>8<\/td><td>Maturity<\/td><td>Life\u2019s cycle complete<\/td><td>Older monkeys looking back<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What the \u201cthree monkeys\u201d panel really teaches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When seen in this context, the famous image is not about ignoring problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead, it emphasizes the innocence of childhood and the guidance needed to grow into a moral adult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For visitors, understanding this meaning adds depth to what might otherwise seem like a simple tourist photo stop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-crease\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list -list-under-dashed\">\n<li>The panel represents moral education in early life.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It encourages self-control rather than ignorance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Context in the full series highlights human growth.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Three Wise Monkeys Photo Tips &amp; Timing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"http:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/6-14-1024x538.webp\" alt=\"Three Wise Monkeys Photo Tips &amp; Timing\" class=\"wp-image-1951\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/6-14-1024x538.webp 1024w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/6-14-300x158.webp 300w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/6-14-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/6-14.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many travelers want to capture the carvings in the best possible way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because <strong>Toshogu receives heavy crowds<\/strong>, timing and positioning are crucial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Knowing when to visit and how to shoot makes your photo both respectful and memorable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best time &amp; angle<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Morning visits often bring softer light and fewer crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Step back to frame the entire row of eight panels, which highlights the story beyond the three monkeys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Angling your camera slightly upward reduces glare from the overhanging roof.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-emboss_box\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list -list-under-dashed\">\n<li>Visit early to avoid groups<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Capture the whole transom, not just panel two<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Position camera low and tilt upward<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Etiquette &amp; conservation-minded shooting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Respectful photography ensures the preservation of these cultural treasures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-swl-main-color\">Do not use flash<\/mark><\/strong>, as repeated exposure can harm delicate wooden pigments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always stand aside quickly after taking your shot so others can enjoy the view.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-big_icon_good\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list -list-under-dashed\">\n<li>No flash photography.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Limit time in front of carvings.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Observe signs and staff instructions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Three Wise Monkeys Souvenirs &amp; Symbols<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"http:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/7-8-1024x538.webp\" alt=\"Three Wise Monkeys Souvenirs &amp; Symbols\" class=\"wp-image-1952\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/7-8-1024x538.webp 1024w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/7-8-300x158.webp 300w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/7-8-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/7-8.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Travelers often want to take home a reminder of the Sanzaru.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Souvenirs range from charms to miniature carvings, often sold at Toshogu\u2019s shops or in Nikko\u2019s town center. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choosing items with clear cultural explanations helps preserve the proverb\u2019s meaning for younger generations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What to buy near Toshogu<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shops offer <strong><span class=\"swl-marker mark_yellow\">many Sanzaru-themed goods that make thoughtful gifts<\/span><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keychains, wooden plaques, and protective amulets are among the most popular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Explaining the deeper moral lesson behind these souvenirs enriches their value beyond decoration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-style-crease\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list -list-under-dashed\">\n<li>Omamori charms featuring the monkeys.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wooden plaques (ema) with Sanzaru designs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keychains and small carvings.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQ About Three Wise Monkeys<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Travelers often have quick questions about the Three Wise Monkeys.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<dl class=\"swell-block-faq is-style-faq-border\" data-q=\"fill-main\" data-a=\"fill-custom\">\n<div class=\"swell-block-faq__item\"><dt class=\"faq_q\">Where exactly are the Three Wise Monkeys inside Toshogu?<\/dt><dd class=\"faq_a\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They are on the Sacred Stable (Shinkyusha), just inside the paid area.<\/p>\n<\/dd><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-faq__item\"><dt class=\"faq_q\">Are the carvings original or restored?<\/dt><dd class=\"faq_a\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, they are original Edo-period works, though conservation has ensured their survival.<\/p>\n<\/dd><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-faq__item\"><dt class=\"faq_q\">What do \u201cMizaru, Iwazaru, Kikazaru\u201d literally mean?<\/dt><dd class=\"faq_a\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They mean \u201csee not, speak not, hear not,\u201d each embodied by one monkey.<\/p>\n<\/dd><\/div>\n<\/dl>\n\n\n<div class=\"p-blogParts post_content\" data-partsID=\"1275\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide u-mb-ctrl u-mb-15\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-columns\"><div class=\"swell-block-columns__inner\">\n<div class=\"swell-block-column swl-has-mb--s\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1350\" height=\"1080\" src=\"http:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/PrivateTourYakiniku.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4139\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/PrivateTourYakiniku.webp 1350w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/PrivateTourYakiniku-300x240.webp 300w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/PrivateTourYakiniku-1024x819.webp 1024w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/PrivateTourYakiniku-768x614.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1350px) 100vw, 1350px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"swell-block-column swl-has-mb--s\" style=\"--swl-clmn-pddng:20px 1rem 1rem 1rem\">\n<div class=\"swell-block-button green_ -size-l is-style-btn_normal u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10\"><a href=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" class=\"swell-block-button__link\"><span><span style=\"--the-icon-svg: url(data:image\/svg+xml;base64,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)\" data-icon=\"LsMegaphone\" data-id=\"0\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"swl-inline-icon\">\u2003 <\/span>Book Our Private TOur<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Private tour for your group only!!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>From $600 per group.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide u-mb-ctrl u-mb-40\"\/>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts on the Three Wise Monkeys at Nikko Toshogu<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"http:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/5-17-1024x538.webp\" alt=\"Final Thoughts on the Three Wise Monkeys at Nikko Toshogu\" class=\"wp-image-1950\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/5-17-1024x538.webp 1024w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/5-17-300x158.webp 300w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/5-17-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/5-17.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The Three Wise Monkeys of Nikko Toshogu are far more than a playful image.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They are a moral lesson expressed in wood. By locating them at the Sacred Stable, exploring the meaning behind their gestures, and placing them within the larger eight-panel story, visitors can appreciate the depth of their symbolism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For travelers, pausing to reflect on <strong>\u201csee no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil\u201d<\/strong> transforms a quick photo stop into an encounter with Japan\u2019s cultural wisdom that still resonates today.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"p-blogParts post_content\" data-partsID=\"3843\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1\">Explore Tokyo with a Local!!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"http:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/JapanTrails_Media\u7528-1024x538.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4075\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/JapanTrails_Media\u7528-1024x538.webp 1024w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/JapanTrails_Media\u7528-300x158.webp 300w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/JapanTrails_Media\u7528-768x403.webp 768w, https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/JapanTrails_Media\u7528.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"u-mb-ctrl u-mb-10 wp-block-paragraph\">We offer tailored private tours designed for small groups. <strong><mark style=\"background-color:rgba(0, 0, 0, 0)\" class=\"has-inline-color has-swl-main-color\">Prices start from 200 USD per person<\/mark><\/strong>, and every itinerary can be fully customized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading u-mb-ctrl u-mb-5\">Free Consultation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><style 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value=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1933\"><input type=\"hidden\" name=\"url_referer\" value=\"\"><button type=\"submit\" name=\"wpforms[submit]\" id=\"wpforms-submit-3828\" class=\"wpforms-submit\" data-alt-text=\"Sending...\" data-submit-text=\"Send Message!!\" aria-live=\"assertive\" value=\"wpforms-submit\">Send Message!!<\/button><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-content\/plugins\/wpforms-lite\/assets\/images\/submit-spin.svg\" class=\"wpforms-submit-spinner\" style=\"display: none;\" width=\"26\" height=\"26\" alt=\"Loading\"><\/div><\/form><\/div>  <!-- .wpforms-container --><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Three Wise Monkeys Nikko Toshogu The Three Wise Monkeys are among the most famous carvings at Nikko Toshogu, and many visitors are eager to locate them quickly. They appear on the Sacred Stable (Shinkyusha), a simple wooden building that houses sacred horses. Understanding the exact placement of the carvings ensures you won\u2019t miss them in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1947,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"swell_btn_cv_data":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[62],"tags":[15,58],"class_list":["post-1933","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-nikko","tag-japan","tag-nikko"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1933","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1933"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1933\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1947"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1933"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1933"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japan-trails.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1933"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}