Temporary Shrine (Okariden)
shrine
御仮殿(おかりでん)
Despite its name, the Okariden is a permanent structure that is only used to temporarily house the deities of Nikko Toshogu when the main buildings are being restored.
The Okariden at Nikko Toshogu is a permanent structure used only when the main shrine buildings undergo major restoration, temporarily housing the enshrined deities. Built in 1639 and designated an Important Cultural Property in 1944, its floor plan mirrors the main shrine exactly, with a worship hall and main hall separated by a connecting chamber. Both buildings share the same colorful carvings of flowers and mythical beasts, though some features here are simpler than their counterparts. Above the entrance, a carved tiger references Tokugawa Ieyasu's birth year. Tigers appear throughout the Toshogu complex for the same reason.
Purify your hands at the temizuya before approaching the main hall. Left hand first, then right, then pour water into your left hand to rinse your mouth.
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