Just past the entrance to Toshogu Shrine, hang a left and you can't miss one of Japan's most iconic images - the original Three Wise Monkeys carved right into the stable building. While you've probably seen these guys reproduced everywhere from emoji to keychains, there's something special about seeing the actual 17th-century carving that started it all.

What's cool is how accessible they are - no straining or jostling required. They're right there, part of a whole series of carvings on the stable (including that famous sleeping cat everyone talks about). Mizaru covering his eyes, Kikazaru covering his ears, and Iwazaru covering his mouth - these little guys have been teaching their "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" lesson for centuries.

Pro tip: Even though they're easy to spot, most people rush past on their way to the more elaborate buildings. Take a moment to appreciate these little monkeys - they're literally the originals that launched a global icon!