The Pride and Beauty of Nikko, Tochigi 90sec

Yomeimon Gate-a symbol of Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which is said to be one of Japan's most lavish shrines-is also called Higurashimon Gate (the "timeless gate"). This is because the gate's decorations are said to be so gorgeous that you can stare at them all day without ever getting tired of them.
Several years ago, the shrine underwent a major restoration during which craftsmen well-versed in the techniques used to create the shrine removed around 500 of its carvings and then repaired them, infusing them with vivid new life.
These techniques live on in the area surrounding Nikko Toshogu Shrine and the other Shrines and Temples of Nikko, all of which have been designated as a World Heritage Site. The Nikko woodcarvings represent one example of such techniques, and they feature distinctive curves carved using a unique type of carving knife, a “hikkaki-tou.” Visitors are given the opportunity not only to check out “Nikko woodcarving” but also to experience it for themselves.
If you visit Toshogu Shrine after experiencing the ancient techniques used to build it, we're sure you'll see it in a new light.
日本で最も装飾された神社と言われる日光東照宮の象徴「陽明門」は別名「日暮門」とも呼ばれている。その理由は、豪華絢爛な装飾を日が暮れるまで見ていても見飽きることがないためだ。
数年前に行われた「大修理」では約500体の彫刻を外し、創建時の技術を受け継ぐ職人たちが修復を施し、現在は色鮮やかに生まれ変わった。
そうした技術は、日光東照宮を含む世界遺産「日光の社寺」の周辺地域に息づいている。その一つである日光彫は独特な刀「ひっかき刀」で彫った曲線を生かした作風が特徴だ。日光彫は、見学するだけでなく体験することもできる。
古の技術に触れた後に再び東照宮を訪れると、また違った趣が感じられるであろう。
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