At least one torii-gate stands at the approach to the main building of any Shinto shrine, which is Japan's unique religion. Torii-gate is for indicating the right route to the main building to Shinto spirits, as well as for purifying the visitors before worshipping. This torii-gate was originally built in 1921, and was the tallest in Japan at that time. The original one, 21 meters high, was made of bronze. During the Second World War, however, it was demolished to be used as the material of weapons. In 1974, thereafter, present torii-gate in the picture was reconstructed by the donations from the people involved. This new one is made of special weatherproof steel, and is said to be durable for some 1,200 years. The height of this, four meters taller than the original one, is equivalent to a seven or eight-storied building, and is the sixth tallest torii-gate in Japan.
Licensed tour guide, travel consultant,
Masahisa Takaki.
全国通訳案内士 高木聖久
