Miyajima - Itsukushima Shrine

Itsukushima Shrine is dedicated to the Princess Ichikishima-hime, Tagori-hime and Tagitsu-hime, daughters of the Shinto wind god Susanoo. This early Shinto shrine is first mentioned in 811. It was rebuilt in the time of Taira Kiyomori (1118-81) and was several times restored in subsequent centuries. The various buildings of the shrine rise out of the waters of a small bay, supported on piles; at high tide they appear to float on the water, presenting a picturesque and colorful spectacle with their red timber framing and white walls.

The individual buildings are linked with one another by covered gangways.

In accordance with Shinto practice, the Principal Shrine consists of a number of separate halls. Nearest the shore is the Honden (Main Hall), and beyond this, built out into the bay, are the Offerings Hall (Heiden), the Prayer Hall (Haiden), the hall for ceremonies of purification (Haraiden) and at the far end, the stage (Takabutai) for cult dances (Bugaku, Kagura) flanked by two music pavilions. The dances (usually masked) are performed at the great festivals, in return for offerings to the shrine, and also on other occasions.

Exactly in line with the longitudinal axis of the principal shrine, 220yds/ 200m beyond the stage is a red wooden torii, the largest in Japan (pillars 53ft/ 16.20m high, lintel 76ft/ 23.30m long). It was erected in 1875 in Ryobu style and bears an inscription by Prince Arisugawa (1835-95).
The shrine was severely damaged by Typhoon Songda in 2004 and temporarily closed for repairs.