Perched on the Sacred Stable within the lavish Nikkō Tōshō-gū complex, this iconic eight-panel relief is celebrated as the origin of the globally famous 'see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil' motif. Carved in the 17th century and attributed to legendary master craftsman Hidari Jingorō, the whimsical monkeys allegorically depict the stages of human life and moral wisdom. The visual pun stems from the Japanese wordplay between the negative verb ending 'zaru' and 'saru' (monkey). Today, this UNESCO World Heritage treasure continues to enchant travelers with its intricate artistry, profound philosophy, and vibrant Edo-period craftsmanship.
- Shrines
- Sculptures & Statues
- Historic Landmarks
- History & Culture
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites
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