Itsukushima Shrine, set on the “holy island” of Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture, stands out as a coveted destination for travelers to Japan. Famous for its “floating” torii gate, this shrine not only offers a peek into ancient Japanese culture but also serves as a stunning example of architectural beauty. The island’s beloved population of wild deer and the shrine’s historical significance make it a compelling spot for anyone visiting Japan.
Why Visit Itsukushima Shrine
- Iconic Floating Torii Gate: Itsukushima Shrine is world-famous for its torii gate that appears to float on the water during high tide. This stunning visual is not only picturesque but also emblematic of Japan’s seamless integration of nature and spirituality.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the shrine offers a deep dive into the spiritual and historical significance of the area, with structures that date back to the 12th century.
- Architectural Marvel: The shrine’s construction, built over water, demonstrates superior craftsmanship and an ancient understanding of environmental harmony, making it a study in traditional Japanese architecture.
- Spiritual Significance: As a significant site for the Shinto religion, visitors can experience traditional rituals, festivals, and the serene atmosphere that pervades the sacred island.
- Scenic Beauty and Wildlife: Beyond the shrine itself, Miyajima Island is home to lush forests and friendly deer, providing a picturesque backdrop and a chance to connect with nature.
The Historical Tapestry of Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine is not just a symbol of Japan’s architectural prowess but also a profound cultural landmark with deep spiritual significance. Its history, dating back over 1,400 years, reveals a blend of myth, religion, and architectural innovation that continues to awe and inspire visitors from around the world.
Origins and Architectural Evolution
The foundation of Itsukushima Shrine was laid in the 6th century, marking the beginning of a long history characterized by numerous reconstructions and enhancements. The current architectural layout of the shrine, known for its distinctive Shinden-zukuri style, was established during the Heian period. Shinden-zukuri was originally developed for aristocratic residences and later adapted for divine uses, signifying the high status and sanctity of the structures it was used to design. This style features a main hall connected to subsidiary buildings via covered corridors, with the whole complex often built around a courtyard. At Itsukushima, this architectural form enhances the shrine’s scenic and spiritual harmony with the surrounding waters.
Enshrined Deities and Spiritual Significance
The shrine is dedicated to three Shinto goddesses: Ichikishimahime, Tagorihime, and Tagitsuhime, daughters of the storm god Susano-o. These deities are believed to protect seafarers and ensure safe journeys, reflecting the shrine’s coastal location and its historical role as a guardian over the often treacherous waters of the Seto Inland Sea.
Construction Over Water: Symbolism and Function
The decision to build Itsukushima Shrine over water is steeped in both practical and symbolic significance. Culturally, the water beneath the shrine is thought to represent the mythical dragon palace under the sea, a concept intertwined with the shrine’s appearance of floating at high tide. This feature was also influenced by syncretic Shinto-Buddhist beliefs, which regarded water as a spiritual passage for souls transitioning to the afterlife, with the shrine serving as a liminal space between worlds.
Cultural Impact and Enduring Legacy
Itsukushima Shrine has left an indelible mark on Japanese culture, influencing religious practices, art, and even local regulations. For centuries, the island was so sacred that common human life events like births and deaths were banned to maintain its purity. This prohibition underscores the deep reverence held for the island’s divine status, a sentiment that persists, albeit in adapted forms, in modern times. The shrine has also played a crucial role in promoting cultural synthesis and continuity, blending Shinto and Buddhist elements in its festivals and rituals, which continue to draw pilgrims and tourists alike.
Today, Itsukushima Shrine stands as a testament to Japan’s rich spiritual history and its unending respect for nature, tradition, and the divine. Its story is a vivid chapter in the cultural anthology of Japan, celebrated and preserved for future generations to cherish and learn from.
The Floating Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine
The floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine is one of the most iconic symbols of Japan, recognized worldwide for its majestic and seemingly miraculous appearance above the waters. This gate not only serves as a stunning visual landmark but also holds deep religious significance and has an interesting history of construction and reconstruction.
Historical Background and Construction
The original torii gate at Itsukushima was likely built when the shrine was first established, but the precise details of its earliest versions are not well-documented. The current gate, which attracts millions of visitors each year, was last built in 1875 and has undergone several renovations to withstand the effects of time and weather.
The structure is made primarily from camphor wood, known for its durability and resistance to rot, an essential feature for a structure that spends part of its time submerged in saltwater. Despite these precautions, the torii gate has been rebuilt multiple times throughout its history due to natural wear and damage, maintaining its grandeur and significance with each reconstruction.
Pilgrimage and Symbolic Entry
Historically, the torii gate serves as the traditional entrance to the Itsukushima Shrine. In ancient times, pilgrims were required to approach the shrine by boat, passing through the torii gate as a symbolic act of entering a sacred space. This practice highlighted the gate’s role as a boundary between the spirit and human worlds, a portal to a place sanctified by the presence of gods.
Viewing the Torii Gate
Visitors to Itsukushima Shrine today can experience the torii gate in two distinct ways, each offering a unique perspective on this spectacular cultural artifact. The first option is to take a ride on a rokai bune, a traditional boat that allows for an up-close view of the gate from the water. This method is particularly popular during high tide when the gate appears to float majestically on the sea.
Alternatively, during low tide, visitors have the opportunity to walk right up to the base of the torii gate. This allows for an entirely different experience of the gate’s grandeur, as one can see the impressive structure’s scale and the intricate craftsmanship involved in its construction. This time also allows for the unique chance to see the submerged parts of the torii that support its weight.
Tips for Travelers
Prepare for Crowds
Itsukushima Shrine is a popular destination not only for international tourists but also for local visitors, including school groups and cultural tours. The site tends to be busiest during weekends, public holidays, and during special events like the Oyster Festival in February and the Fireworks Festival in August. To avoid the thickest crowds, aim to visit early in the morning or later in the evening. If your schedule allows, visiting on weekdays can also offer a more tranquil experience.
Prepare for the Tides
To fully appreciate the iconic floating torii gate, plan your visit according to the tide times. High tide is the ideal time to see the gate in its famous “floating” state. Conversely, during low tide, you can walk up close to the base of the Torii gate. Tide schedules are available online or at local tourist information centers in Hiroshima and Miyajima.
Respect the Sacred Site
Itsukushima Shrine is a revered religious site, so visitors are expected to behave respectfully. This includes speaking in subdued tones, refraining from touching sacred objects, and avoiding areas marked as private. Remember to follow signs and instructions provided by the shrine management.
Explore Beyond the Shrine
While the shrine is a highlight, Miyajima Island offers much more. Plan to spend at least half a day on the island to explore other attractions like Daishoin, Mount Misen, the Miyajima Public Aquarium, and the various shops and eateries along Omotesando Street.
Video
Itsukushima Shrine is featured in this video about Miyajima. The segment starts at 2:42
How to Get to Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社、 いつくしま じんじゃ)
13-minute walk from the port of Itsukushima
Business Hours: 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Closing times vary according to times of the year, please check official website for more details)
Admission Fee: ¥300
Official Website
