Detailed Explanation of the History and Overview of Itsukushima Shrine

 

　Table of Contents

1. Overview of Itsukushima Shrine
   
2. History of Itsukushima Shrine
   
3. Highlights of Itsukushima Shrine
   

Introduction

Itsukushima Shrine, located on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most iconic shrines, known for its magnificent floating shrine and the vibrant red torii gate standing in the sea. Its breathtaking scenery and historical significance have earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, leaving a lasting impression on both domestic and international visitors.

In this article, we will provide a detailed introduction to the overview, history, and highlights of Itsukushima Shrine. We hope this will serve as a helpful guide for those planning to visit.

1. Overview of Itsukushima Shrine 

Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社) is one of Japan's most iconic shrines, located on Miyajima (officially named Itsukushima), an island in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the shrine is celebrated for its historical and cultural significance worldwide. The shrine gained additional global attention when it was chosen as the venue for the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting. This selection symbolized Hiroshima's commitment to peace and culture, and the event shared a strong message of peace with the world.

The shrine enshrines the three Munakata Goddesses (宗像三女神), who are deities of maritime safety:
・Ichikishimahime no Mikoto (市杵島姫命)
・Tagorihime no Mikoto (田心姫命)
・Tagitsuhime no Mikoto (湍津姫命)
These goddesses are said to have been born from the mythological covenant between Amaterasu Omikami (天照大神), the Sun Goddess, and Susanoo no Mikoto (素戔嗚尊), the Storm God. They have been revered for centuries for their blessings of safe navigation, transportation, prosperity in commerce, and mastery of the arts.

The shrine's origins date back to 593 CE. Since ancient times, Itsukushima Shrine has been venerated as the guardian of the Seto Inland Sea, a critical hub of maritime traffic. During the late Heian period in the 12th century, Taira no Kiyomori (平清盛) rebuilt the shrine, establishing the magnificent architectural style seen today. Kiyomori’s profound devotion to Itsukushima Shrine included lavish donations and the construction of grand structures, elevating the shrine to its peak as the guardian deity of the Taira clan.

The island of Itsukushima itself has been regarded as sacred since ancient times, considered a dwelling place for the gods. For centuries, access to the island was restricted, and activities such as births, deaths, farming, and tree felling were prohibited to maintain its sanctity.

The shrine’s most striking feature is its unique construction over the water. At high tide, the shrine appears to float on the sea, while at low tide, visitors can walk along the seabed and approach its structures. The brilliant vermilion buildings harmonize beautifully with the lush green backdrop of Mount Misen, creating one of Japan’s three most scenic views, known as the “Aki no Miyajima” (安芸の宮島).

The shrine buildings are designed in the elegant Shinden-zukuri architectural style of the Heian period and include numerous structures designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, such as the main shrine, prayer halls, and a Noh stage. Particularly iconic is the Great Torii Gate, which stands approximately 16.6 meters tall, with main pillars measuring 9.9 meters in circumference. The current Torii was constructed in 1875 using natural camphor wood.

Itsukushima Shrine also preserves the refined court culture of the Heian period through performances of bugaku (traditional dance), held several times a year. The most famous is the Kangen-sai Festival, held annually on the 17th day of the old lunar calendar, where traditional boat processions are recreated on the sea. This festival, initiated by Taira no Kiyomori, is considered one of Japan’s three greatest maritime festivals.

Additionally, the Kiyomori Festival, held every March, commemorates Taira no Kiyomori with parades featuring Heian-era attire and traditional performances. Seasonal events such as the Peach Blossom Festival in spring and sacred Noh plays in autumn showcase the shrine’s year-round cultural significance.

2. History of Itsukushima Shrine 

Itsukushima Shrine has served as a central figure in Japan’s history, religion, and culture from ancient times to the present day. Below are the shrine’s historical milestones categorized by significant periods.

　1. Founding and Early History (593 CE) 

The founding of Itsukushima Shrine dates back to 593 CE, during the reign of Emperor Suiko. According to tradition, Saeki no Kuramoto (佐伯鞍職), a local nobleman of the Aki Province (present-day western Hiroshima Prefecture), established the shrine to pray for maritime safety and prosperity. The three Munakata Goddesses, revered as guardians of the sea, have been the shrine's principal deities, offering protection to sailors and fishermen alike.

　2. The Heian Period and Taira no Kiyomori’s Contributions (1168 CE)

Image is for illustration purposes. 

In 1168, Taira no Kiyomori, appointed as Governor of Aki Province, became a devoted patron of Itsukushima Shrine. He reconstructed the shrine in the grand architectural style of the Shinden-zukuri, which reflected the opulent palace architecture of Heian aristocracy. His efforts solidified Itsukushima Shrine’s prominence, attracting visits from royalty such as Emperor Go-Shirakawa and Emperor Takakura.

　3. The Warring States Period and Mōri Motonari’s Revival (1571 CE)

Image is for illustration purposes. 

During the Warring States Period (1467–1590), many temples and shrines across Japan fell into disrepair due to ongoing conflicts, and Itsukushima Shrine was no exception. However, Mōri Motonari (毛利元就), a powerful warlord who ruled the Aki region, played a vital role in reviving the shrine. His victory in the Battle of Itsukushima (1555), a pivotal moment in Japanese military history, was attributed to divine intervention, further deepening his faith in the shrine. After his triumph, Motonari initiated extensive restoration efforts.

　4. Edo Period to Modern Times (1875 CE)

During the Edo period, Itsukushima Shrine became a popular pilgrimage site, known as “Itsukushima Mairi.” The area flourished with tea houses, inns, and souvenir shops catering to visitors. The shrine’s beauty was immortalized in the works of ukiyo-e artists such as Utagawa Hiroshige and Katsushika Hokusai.

In 1875, the iconic Great Torii Gate was reconstructed. Standing 16 meters tall, this eighth-generation Torii became a symbol of the shrine. The Meiji period (1868–1912) brought significant changes, including the Shinbutsu Bunri decree, which separated Shinto and Buddhism, leading to the removal of Buddhist elements from Itsukushima Shrine.

　5. World Heritage Registration (1996 CE)

In 1996, Itsukushima Shrine was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional cultural and historical significance. The designation includes not only the shrine buildings but also the island’s natural environment and historical relics. Since its registration, the shrine has undergone regular preservation efforts, such as major restoration work following typhoon damage in 2004. Today, Itsukushima Shrine remains a beloved cultural landmark, hosting traditional festivals like the Kangen-sai Festival, which continue to draw visitors from around the world.

3. Highlights of Itsukushima Shrine 

Itsukushima Shrine is renowned for its beautiful floating shrine buildings. Below are some of the key spots you should visit.

　■ The Great Torii Gate 

The vermilion Great Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine is its most iconic structure, standing majestically in the sea. The gate is 16.6 meters tall and weighs approximately 60 tons, with the main pillars made from water-resistant camphor wood. Interestingly, the torii is not buried underground but stands solely by its weight, supported by a foundation of wooden piles known as "senbon-kugi."

During low tide, you can walk right up to the gate, while during high tide, it appears as if floating on the sea. Visitors can also take small boats to pass under the gate, making for a memorable experience.

　■ The Corridors and Shrine Buildings 

The shrine's corridors stretch about 275 meters in total length, surrounding the sea. The vermilion corridors are a designated National Treasure, known for their beauty and harmony with the surrounding landscape. The columns of the corridors are spaced to reduce pressure from tidal flows and storm surges, showing the ingenuity behind the shrine's design.

Walking through the corridors, you can enjoy breathtaking views, including a panoramic sight of the Great Torii Gate from the main shrine building. The combination of the vermilion corridors, the blue sea, and the green forests of Mount Misen in the background creates a uniquely stunning landscape.

　■ The Elevated Stage (Takabutai) 

The elevated stage, a National Treasure, is an important platform where traditional "bugaku" dance performances, dedicated to the gods, take place. The stage is known for its black-lacquered foundation and vermilion handrails.

Bugaku, a form of ancient court music and dance, was introduced to the shrine by Taira no Kiyomori. Even today, several ceremonial performances are held throughout the year on this elegant stage, offering a glimpse of the Heian Period's refined court culture.

　■ "Kagami-no-ike" (Mirror Pond) at Low Tide」

At low tide, "Kagami-no-ike" or Mirror Pond, appears on the shrine's sandy shore. There are three such ponds, visible only during low tide. The ponds are filled with clear spring water and are particularly famous during autumn's full moon, when the moon is beautifully reflected in the water. The pond, designed in the style of the Heian Period's shinden-zukuri architecture, is also symbolic of Pure Land Buddhist beliefs.

　■ Senjokaku (Toyokuni Shrine) 

Senjokaku, also known as Toyokuni Shrine, was commissioned by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1587 as a large hall for memorial services dedicated to fallen soldiers. However, construction was halted after his death, leaving the building unfinished with no ceiling or walls. The expansive hall, named "Senjokaku" (literally "Pavilion of a Thousand Mats") due to its size equivalent to 857 tatami mats, offers a spacious, open atmosphere.

The interior of the building features wooden floors and towering pillars, exuding a sense of historical gravity. Senjokaku is designated as an Important Cultural Property due to its historical significance.

　■  Itsukushima Shrine at Night 

At night, Itsukushima Shrine is beautifully illuminated, offering a completely different experience from daytime visits. The torii gate and shrine buildings are lit up, creating a mystical atmosphere as they float on the water, with only the sound of waves breaking the silence.

The illumination runs from 30 minutes after sunset until 11 p.m., and visitors can also view the shrine from a boat tour during this time. The sight of the lit-up Great Torii during high tide is particularly breathtaking.

 In Conclusion 

Itsukushima Shrine has been revered by many as a symbol of Japanese culture and spirituality, thanks to its grand historical background and beautiful architecture. The shrine continues to preserve its elegant and mysterious charm from the Heian Period to the present day.

When visiting, take note of the changing tides and times of day, as they offer different perspectives of the shrine. We hope this article helps you fully appreciate the beauty of Itsukushima Shrine.