The great torii gate is not buried in the seabed but stands upright by its own weight on a base of spread stones.
The island of Miyajima was historically considered so sacred that commoners were forbidden from setting foot on it until the late 19th century.
The shrine's corridor floors have gaps between the planks designed to alleviate water pressure during high tide and storms.
Deer roam freely around the shrine grounds and are considered divine messengers in Shinto belief.
The current torii gate is the eighth iteration, with the previous ones dating back to the 12th century.
The shrine contains a rare Noh stage that is the only one in Japan built over the sea.
The vermilion paint used on the structures is intended to ward off evil spirits.
The main sanctuary is partially built on a tidal flat, necessitating careful engineering to withstand the rhythmic submersion of the rising tide.
Itsukushima Jinja is a Shinto shrine complex in Hatsukaichi, Japan, famously constructed over water to give the impression of floating at high tide. The current main structure dates largely to the 16th century and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It consists of multiple buildings connected by boardwalks, including a prayer hall, main hall, and a Noh theater stage. The iconic vermilion torii gate stands offshore, constructed of camphor wood. The shrine is dedicated to the three daughters of the Shinto deity Susano-o-no-Mikoto. Its architectural design follows the Shinden-zukuri style, characterized by long, connecting corridors. The location is on Miyajima Island, which is considered sacred ground in Shinto tradition. The base of the torii gate is accessible by foot during extreme low tide.
From the beach area at low tide looking back toward the shrine with the torii gate in the frame.
Check the daily tide tables before your visit to experience both the high tide 'floating' effect and the low tide walk to the torii gate.
Stay on the marked paths to avoid disturbing the local deer population.
Visit the surrounding Momijidani Park if visiting during the autumn foliage season.
Feeding the local deer, as they are wild animals that may become aggressive.
Remove hats before entering buildings; bow once at the entrance; refrain from eating or drinking while walking; do not touch the deer.
