The Architecture of Itsukushima Shrine

The Itsukushima Shrine is a Shinto complex in Hatsukaichi city. The halls stand on pier-like structures over Matsushima bay.

Taira no Kiyomori contributed to the shrine in 1168. Mōri Motonari rebuilt the honden in 1571.

The fifty-foot-tall vermilion torii gate is built of camphor wood. The current structure dates to 1875.

At high tide the torii appears to float. At low tide visitors can approach the gate by foot.

The honden is an eight-by-four bay structure with a kirizuma roof surfaced in cypress bark. Its walls use white stucco.

Itsukushima Shrine is recognized globally for its cultural significance.

A noh stage extends from the haraiden of the main shrine. The stage dates from 1590.

The Kangen-sai ritual uses a goza-bune boat formed by binding three traditional boats together. Musicians play kangen court music during the procession.