Kunozan Toshogu Shrine

Kunozan Toshogu is the origin shrine of Toshogu shrines, enshrining Tokugawa Ieyasu. After Ieyasu spent his later years in Sunpu and passed away in 1616, it was founded by order of the 2nd shogun, Tokugawa Hidetada, as the first (founding) Toshogu shrine nationwide. To reach the shrine, you can use the Nihondaira Ropeway from the scenic Nihondaira area, or climb the stone steps of the Omotesando route from the foot of Mt. Kunozan. Before the ropeway opened in 1957, the Omotesando was the only approach path. Climbing the 1,159 stone steps, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of Suruga Bay, the Izu Peninsula, and even Omaezaki from near the first gate, as well as the distinctive sight of strawberry greenhouses lining the coast—Kunozan is known as the birthplace of sightseeing strawberry picking. At the summit, you’ll find a richly ornate shrine complex surrounded by forest. Built 19 years before Nikko Toshogu, the shrine buildings are in gongen-zukuri style with lacquered finishes, elaborate carvings, and vivid colors, and they are designated as National Treasures. The grounds also include the Kunozan Toshogu Museum, which preserves items used by Ieyasu and weapons/armor of successive Tokugawa shoguns.