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, located on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima Prefecture, is an important shrine that is also a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine is said to have been founded in 593 (during the reign of Empress Suiko), and the magnificent floating structure that we see today was constructed by the military leader Taira no Kiyomori in the late Heian period. The shrine is famous for its breathtaking beauty, with vibrant vermilion-lacquered buildings and a grand torii gate that appears to float on the sea, contributing to the designation of Miyajima as one of Japan’s "Three Most Scenic Spots."

The primary deities enshrined at Itsukushima Shrine are the three goddesses of Munakata (Ichikishimahime-no-mikoto, Tagorihime-no-mikoto, and Tagitsuhime-no-mikoto), who have long been revered as the protectors of maritime safety. The shrine’s torii gate stands an impressive 16.6 meters tall, and during low tide, visitors can walk right up to it, which is a unique feature of this sacred site.

In addition to the shrine buildings and the torii gate, Itsukushima Shrine regularly hosts performances of "bugaku," an elegant dance form from the Heian period, along with the annual "Kangen-sai" festival, which evokes the refined atmosphere of the time. Other events, such as the "Kiyomori Festival," held in honor of Taira no Kiyomori, take place throughout the year, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the shrine.​

One notable event that brought global attention to Itsukushima Shrine was the 2016 G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting, held on the shrine grounds. This gathering highlighted the shrine as a symbol of peace and cultural significance, with foreign ministers from around the world visiting and sharing reflections on peace and heritage.

2. History of Itsukushima Shrine 

Itsukushima Shrine has played a central role in Japan’s history, religion, and culture from ancient times to the present. Below is a detailed explanation of key events in the shrine’s history, divided by major milestones.

　1. Founding and Early History (593 AD)

The founding of Itsukushima Shrine dates back to 593 AD, during the reign of Empress Suiko. It is believed that the shrine was built by Saeki no Kuramoto, a powerful clan leader in the province of Aki (modern-day Hiroshima Prefecture). The main deities enshrined here are the three goddesses of Munakata (Ichikishimahime-no-mikoto, Tagorihime-no-mikoto, and Tagitsuhime-no-mikoto), who have long been worshipped as protectors of maritime safety. The island of Miyajima itself, where the shrine stands, has been regarded as a sacred place where the presence of the gods could be felt.

　2. The Heian Period and Taira no Kiyomori's Involvement (1168 AD)

In 1168, Taira no Kiyomori, who was appointed as the governor of Aki Province, became a devoted follower of Itsukushima Shrine. He oversaw the construction of the grand shrine complex, which appeared to float on the sea. The shrine’s architectural style, incorporating elements of the "shinden-zukuri" style used by the Heian nobility, has been preserved to this day. Itsukushima Shrine became a symbol of Kiyomori’s power, attracting visits from emperors such as Emperor Go-Shirakawa and Emperor Takakura, and spreading the influence of Kyoto’s aristocratic culture.

　3. Restoration During the Sengoku Period (1571 AD)

During the Sengoku Period, Itsukushima Shrine fell into disrepair. However, Mōri Motonari, the lord of the Aki region, revived the shrine and carried out large-scale restoration work in 1571. This restoration included rebuilding the shrine buildings and the iconic torii gate, allowing the shrine to regain its prominence as a vital religious center.

　4. From the Edo Period to the Modern Era (1875 AD)

In the Edo Period, "pilgrimages to Itsukushima" became popular among commoners, significantly increasing the number of visitors. In 1875, the iconic large torii gate was rebuilt, which is the eighth generation of the torii and the one that stands today. The design of the gate, which stands in the sea and is painted in vivid vermilion, is a masterpiece of engineering, designed to remain standing even in the face of the elements.

　5. World Heritage Registration (1996 AD)

In the Meiji Era, the government’s policy of separating Shinto and Buddhism led to the removal of Buddhist elements from Itsukushima Shrine. However, extensive restoration work continued, preserving the shrine’s current form. In 1996, Itsukushima Shrine was recognized for its outstanding scenic and historical value and was designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, further solidifying its international recognition and importance.

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.

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 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.