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Japan -> Miyajima -> Itsukushima-jinja Shrine
Itsukushima-jinja Shrine    Miyajima, Hiroshima Prefecture

The Itsukushima-jinja Shrine is dedicated to the three sea goddesses who were daughters of Susano-o, a Shinto god. The shrine was founded in 593 during the reign of Empress Suiko but attained its present shape in 1168 under Taira-no-Kiyomori, a Heike warlord and penultimate Heian-era ruler. The shrine is flanked by covered corridors and is known for its delicate red-orange woodwork and thatched roofs. Sitting 175 yards away in the sea, is the famous red torii that is made of camphorwood and stands 53ft high, which seems to sit on the water's surface. The torii, built on four wooden pillars, is a spectacular example of Heian-era shrine architecture and the symbol of Miyajima. Southwest of the shrine is the treasure house which contains 4,000 objects, 130 of which are Important Cultural Properties or National Treasures. The shrine is best viewed at high tide when the buildings are reflected in the waters.



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