Abstract

Nikkō Tōshōgū, a mausoleum and place of worship for the deified spirit of the first Tokugawa shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu (1542–1616), is famous for its sacred spatial sites, sumptuous architectural and sculptural decorations, and political and religious significance for the Tokugawa shogunate. Interestingly, the shrine holds several ritual objects sent by Joseon kings in the 17th century and still displays a large Joseon bell engraved with the writings of Joseon officials (sent in 1643) in front of the Yōmeimon, the entrance to the inner shrine complex. More significantly, Japan requested that these specific items be sent from Joseon, and that they be presented as voluntary gifts. This article aims to examine the uniqueness inherent in the Joseon gifts on display at Nikkō Tōshōgū and the conflicts of interest surrounding them. With a thorough analysis of this gift-giving process—during which both countries, operating from disparate perspectives and driven by their respective needs and interests, engaged in and navigated constant deliberations and negotiations—this article suggests that these gifts, while seemingly a peaceful gesture, actually conceal a complex and contentious history and are a result of both countries’ fierce and desperate struggle to address their practical needs.