Three Wise Monkeys三猿

The Three Wise Monkeys is a Japanese visual representation of the proverb "See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil". The monkeys are depicted as Mizaru, who covers his eyes to "see no evil", Kikazaru, who covers his ears to "hear no evil", and Iwazaru, who covers his mouth to "speak no evil".

These monkeys are not just individual sculptures; they are part of a fascinating ensemble of eight relief carvings. Each of these eight carvings tells a unique story, symbolizing different stages of life. 1st carving: A concerned parent monkey with one hand over its eyes, gazing into the distance, expressing the worry for its child's future. 2nd carving: The iconic Three Wise Monkeys, covering their eyes, ears, and mouth, embody the well-known maxim, "See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil". 3rd carving: A seated monkey, representing a stage of life before independence. 4th carving: Two monkeys gazing up at the sky with blue clouds in the background, symbolizing aspirations for success and prominence. 5th carving: Three monkeys, one prostrated, while another comforts it. The prostrated monkey signifies life's failures and setbacks, while the comforting monkey symbolizes the support of friends during challenging times. 6th carving: Two monkeys lost in thought, reflecting the emergence of romantic feelings, possibly due to an encounter with a captivating mate. 7th carving: Two monkeys with waves of the sea, representing a married couple facing life's challenges through mutual support. 8th carving: A monkey with a protruding belly, symbolizing a mother monkey with the responsibility of bearing the next generation. The narrative then begins anew from the 1st carving.

The Three Wise Monkeys are depicted in the second sculpture, symbolizing the early years of childhood. This portrays the proverb "See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil". It conveys the message that during infancy and childhood, one is pure and easily influenced. Thus, it is crucial to protect them from negativity, avoid harmful language, and impart virtuous values. This teaching emphasizes that by instilling positive qualities during this phase, individuals can develop the capacity to make sound judgments when confronted with negativity. In essence, the Three Wise Monkeys carry a message directed towards adults responsible for raising children.

2301 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi

• 35 minutes walk from Nikkō Station (日光駅)