Have you ever visited Itsukushima Shrine? The iconic vermilion torii gate floating on the sea has long captivated many people. Today, tourists from all over the world come to visit this remarkable site. But why exactly is Itsukushima Shrine located on the sea, and what is the history behind its construction? This time, we will introduce the surprisingly lesser-known history, highlights, and fun facts about Itsukushima Shrine!
History of Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine, located on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, is renowned for its grand history and sacred presence. The shrine's history spans from ancient nature worship to many significant periods in Japanese history. Let's explore the history of Itsukushima Shrine.
Background of the Shrine's Foundation
Miyajima has long been a target of natural worship by the surrounding people due to its beautiful mountains and the spiritual presence of Mount Misen. In 593, Saeki Kuramoto, a powerful figure in the Saeki clan, is said to have established Itsukushima Shrine at its current location. Later, in 806, it is believed that Kukai (Kobo Daishi) visited Miyajima and founded Mount Misen.
Taira no Kiyomori and Itsukushima Shrine
In the late Heian period, Taira no Kiyomori, who rose from the governor of Aki Province to become the Grand Chancellor, devoutly worshiped Itsukushima Shrine as the guardian deity of his clan. This devotion brought widespread recognition to the shrine, leading to the construction of splendid shrine buildings on the sea. During this period, many members of the imperial family and nobility, including Emperor Go-Shirakawa, Emperor Takakura, and Kenreimon-in, visited the shrine, bringing it to the height of its glory.
Even after the Taira clan's downfall at the Battle of Dan-no-ura, faith in Itsukushima Shrine did not wane. It continued to be protected by successive rulers, including the Kamakura shogunate, the Muromachi shogunate, the local lords such as the Ouchi and Mori clans, and even Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified Japan. Notably, Mori Motonari greatly contributed to the shrine's development after defeating Ouchi Yoshitaka in the Battle of Miyajima in 1555.
(Image Citation: Japaaan magazine)
Changes in Miyajima
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Initially, Miyajima was considered a sacred place where only priests and monks were allowed to enter for rituals. However, as the faith spread, the number of pilgrims increased, leading to the formation of a town. During the Muromachi period, the flow of goods and trade became more active, and Miyajima rapidly transformed into a trading and commercial city. In the Edo period, feudal lords such as Fukushima Masanori and the Asano clan protected Miyajima's commerce and shipping industry, and Miyajima flourished as a cultural center in the Seto Inland Sea region. During this period, the management of Itsukushima Shrine was maintained by the Tanamori family, Daisho-in Temple, and Daiganji Temple.
(Image Citation: アートジェンダー)
Changes in the Meiji Era
After the Meiji Restoration, the separation of Shinto and Buddhism (Shinbutsu Bunri) led to the closure of many temples, and Itsukushima Shrine also faced a period of transformation. The shrine underwent modernization to adapt to the new era, including the restoration of shrine buildings and the reconstruction of the grand torii gate. The opening of the Sanyo Railway's Miyajimaguchi Station and the establishment of the Miyajima ferry route significantly contributed to an increase in tourism. In the 20th century, the entire island was designated as a National Historic Site and Scenic Beauty. The primeval forest on the northern slopes of Mount Misen was declared a Natural Monument, and in 1996, Itsukushima Shrine and the surrounding area of Mount Misen were registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. These designations internationally recognize the historical and cultural value of Itsukushima Shrine and Miyajima, solidifying their status as a major tourist destination.
Highlights of Itsukushima Shrine
Next, let's introduce the highlights of Itsukushima Shrine. Not only is the grand torii gate spectacular, but the interior of the shrine is also beautifully designed and a must-see.
Grand Torii Gate Floating on the Sea
However, when the tide rises, Itsukushima Shrine transforms into a dreamlike vision as if floating on the sea. This miraculous sight stems from Taira no Kiyomori's decision to build the shrine on the sea to maintain the sacredness of the "Island of the Gods" without setting foot on it. During high tide, the sea reaches just beneath the floorboards, and the design perfectly harmonizes with the tidal movements of the Seto Inland Sea.
Mount Misen, towering behind Itsukushima Shrine, was once a site of mountain worship. The harmonious blend of the mountain, the sea-based shrine buildings, and the grand torii gate represents a meticulously calculated balance of natural scenery and architectural beauty, deeply moving all who visit.
When visiting Itsukushima Shrine, it is recommended to start your visit at the sessha "Kiyomori Shrine" near the entrance. Sessha are subsidiary shrines that enshrine deities closely related to the main deity, and Kiyomori Shrine is particularly noteworthy. The main hall of Kiyomori Shrine is designated as a National Treasure due to its exceptional architectural style and decorative beauty. When you visit, take the time to appreciate not only the sacred atmosphere but also the intricate details and structure of the decorations. The high-quality architectural styles used throughout the shrine complex will captivate you with their beauty.
Kiyomori Shrine enshrines five deities and is especially famous for its blessings in matchmaking. It is a sacred site worth visiting for those wishing for love and marriage. Additionally, the shrine is believed to offer a wide range of benefits, including beauty, healing from illnesses, and protection from misfortune, attracting many visitors with various wishes.
Combined with the mystical ambiance of Itsukushima Shrine as a whole, the sacred beauty and blessings of Kiyomori Shrine will provide visitors with an unforgettable experience. When you visit Itsukushima Shrine, be sure to start your pilgrimage at Kiyomori Shrine and fully enjoy its history and beauty
(Image Citation: 世界遺産マニア)
East Corridor and West Corridor
Another highlight that accentuates the beauty of Itsukushima Shrine is the "East Corridor" and "West Corridor" that encircle the shrine buildings. These corridors, which span a total length of about 260 meters and a width of approximately 4 meters, are both designated as National Treasures for their outstanding architectural beauty.
When walking through the East and West Corridors, one of the most notable features is the "floorboards." At first glance, the floorboards appear to be seamlessly laid, but they actually have tiny gaps known as "metoshi." These gaps allow seawater to escape during high tide, protecting the structure. Additionally, to prevent corrosion from seawater, no nails are used to secure the floorboards, which is a fascinating feature from a technical perspective.
Another point of interest is the "entrance" of the East and West Corridors. The entrance of the East Corridor features a gable roof (kirizuma-zukuri), while the entrance of the West Corridor is adorned with a more formal and prestigious karahafu roof. Since the karahafu style is often used for the entrances of high-status buildings, it suggests that the West Corridor might have originally served as the main entrance. This difference is worth noting when you visit, as it allows you to appreciate the historical context and architectural details embedded in the shrine's design.
(Image Citation: miyajima blog)
Gohonsha (Main Shrine)
The heart of Itsukushima Shrine, known as the "Gohonsha," is a series of structures comprising the main hall (honden), offering hall (heiden), worship hall (haiden), and purification hall (harai-den). This complex is designated as a National Treasure for its magnificence and unique architectural techniques. Built over the sea, the shrine embodies a distinctive beauty that harmonizes with the ocean.
One particularly noteworthy feature of the Gohonsha is the main hall's asymmetrical design. This unique structure adds a special accent to the shrine's beauty, distinguishing it from traditional shrine architecture. This characteristic is a defining element of Itsukushima Shrine, and visitors are encouraged to observe this distinctive shape when they visit.
The roof of the Gohonsha also boasts a rare design, seen in only a few existing shrines. This unique roof is an especially intriguing aspect of Itsukushima Shrine's architectural style and a must-see for those interested in architecture. Not only the shape of the roof but also its intricate decorations and materials reflect the high level of craftsmanship and aesthetic sense of the artisans.
Positioned over the sea, the Gohonsha of Itsukushima Shrine is often exposed to natural threats such as waves and winds. To withstand these elements, various ingenious solutions have been incorporated throughout the structure. These measures are the culmination of wisdom and techniques that have preserved the beauty of the Gohonsha for many years. From the building's structure and material selection to the layout, the design emphasizes harmony with the natural environment.
(Image Citation: Flicker)
Takabutai (High Stage) and Hirabutai (Flat Stage)
In front of the main shrine of Itsukushima Shrine lies the "Takabutai" (High Stage), a precious place where traditional Japanese dance and music performances, known as Bugaku, are held about eleven times a year. Surrounded by vermilion railings and set against the backdrop of the grand torii gate rising from the sea, the Bugaku performances here evoke a deep sense of Japanese aesthetics for visitors. Bugaku, a traditional Japanese dance, was brought to Miyajima from Kyoto by Taira no Kiyomori during the Heian period. The graceful dances, performed by dancers in splendid costumes, convey the profound charm of traditional Japanese culture.
The Takabutai is counted among the "Three Great Stages of Japan" and has been designated as a National Treasure for its historical significance. The stage itself has many points of interest, including the railings installed during the Muromachi period and the pillars adorned with protective motifs. The stage, with its architectural beauty, creates a sacred atmosphere befitting the Bugaku performances.
In addition to the Takabutai, the "Itabutai" (Board Stage), a flat stage, is another significant feature of Itsukushima Shrine. Alongside the stone stages at Shitenno-ji Temple and Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Osaka, these stages are counted among the "Three Great Stages of Japan," highlighting the importance of stage arts in Japanese shrine architecture and culture.
(Image Citation: Flicker)
Fun Facts about Itsukushima Shrine
Why Itsukushima Shrine is on the Sea
Miyajima has long been revered as a sacred place, with the entire island worshipped as a deity. This profound reverence is reflected in the strict rule to avoid harming the island's land as much as possible. Cutting the island's soil or trees was considered an act of desecration, and such actions were highly restricted.
This belief is rooted in the ancient faith that the island itself possesses divine status and is regarded as the dwelling place of gods. Therefore, the grand torii gate and the shrine buildings of Itsukushima Shrine were constructed on the sea rather than on land. This construction method was a way to protect the island's land and preserve its sanctity.
Artifacts discovered suggest that people inhabited the island as early as the Paleolithic era, although it is believed to have been uninhabited for a period after the last ice age. Around 593 AD, a renewed sacred faith in the island emerged, leading to the establishment of a worship site at the location of the current Gegezen Shrine. From this site, boats would occasionally set sail for the island to manage and conduct rites at the shrine constructed there.
The construction of Itsukushima Shrine on the sea is rooted in deep respect and faith towards Miyajima itself, forming a unique cultural practice to protect the island. The shrine buildings and grand torii gate standing on the sea symbolize this faith and convey the sacredness of Itsukushima Shrine to this day. This unique architectural approach tells the story of the distinct history and spirituality of Miyajima and Itsukushima Shrine.
The reason why the grand torii gate in the sea does not fall over
The grand torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, with its majestic appearance, captivates many people. However, it is not buried into the seabed but merely placed there. The secret to its stability, even while standing in the sea, lies in the exceptional skill and wisdom of craftsmen from the Heian period.
The stability of this torii gate comes from its box-like structure at the top, combining the kasagi and shimaki. This section is filled with approximately 7 tons of stones, which increases the total weight of the torii gate to 60 tons. This weight firmly secures the torii in the sea, keeping it stable and upright. Additionally, the base of the torii is supported by six robust pillars, providing a solid foundation. To ensure stability even in the unstable sandy seabed, around 30 to 100 stakes, each about 50 cm long, are driven into the ground. These stakes, known as "senbonkui," are covered with stones, further enhancing the torii gate's stability.
What is truly remarkable is that these techniques were not developed in modern times but by craftsmen from the Heian period. Despite the harsh environment of the sea, their advanced skills and creativity have allowed the torii gate to maintain its beautiful form to this day, showcasing the pinnacle of Japanese architectural ingenuity and evoking a sense of awe and wonder.
Itsukushima Shrine features Shinden-zukuri architecture
One of the charms of Itsukushima Shrine is its Shinden-zukuri design, which symbolizes the Heian period. Shinden-zukuri is a style of architecture characterized by elevated wooden structures, typical of aristocratic residences, and known for its elegance and delicacy. The layout centers around the main hall (shinden), with auxiliary buildings called tainoya and corridors called watadono, creating a sophisticated composition representative of aristocratic culture.
A distinctive feature of the Shinden-zukuri at Itsukushima Shrine is its vivid vermilion-painted exterior. This color conveys the refined elegance of Heian-period aristocratic culture and leaves a lasting impression on visitors. At Itsukushima Shrine, elements of Shinden-zukuri can be seen throughout, including the guest shrine, stages, music rooms (for playing instruments), and the arched bridge (soribashi).
While strolling through Itsukushima Shrine, visitors can leisurely walk along the corridors and savor the graceful atmosphere that Heian-period nobles likely enjoyed. The Shinden-zukuri architecture reflects the aesthetic sense and lifestyle of that era, with intricate decorations and structures that embody the exquisite craftsmanship and delicate sensibilities of the people at that time.
Summary
How was it? This time, we introduced the history, highlights, and fun facts about Itsukushima Shrine. Interestingly, rather than just the shrine itself, the entire island, including the mountains, is worshiped as a deity. This belief led to the construction of the shrine on the sea, to avoid harming the land or cutting down trees, which would be seen as damaging the god. Later, Taira no Kiyomori completed the shrine in its current form, and it has been loved by many people ever since. Knowing this historical background can offer a new perspective when you visit Itsukushima Shrine.
Our site also introduces various aspects of Japanese history and culture beyond Itsukushima Shrine. If you are interested, we would be delighted if you read our other articles as well!
