Itsukushima Jinja Gojūnotō — Attraction in Hatsukaichi

We came across this five storied pagoda while exploring the Itsukushima Shrine area on Miyajima Island. Although we didn’t go inside, it was still incredible to see up close and admire the craftsmanship from the outside. It stands tall above the surrounding village rooftops and offers beautiful photo angles from several directions.

Built in 1407, the pagoda combines traditional Japanese and Chinese architectural styles. Its brilliant red colour and elegant curves contrast beautifully with the surrounding greenery and wooden structures nearby. Each tier tapers upward with precision, and the pagoda stands approximately 27 meters high, creating a bold vertical presence on the hill.

There’s a relaxing atmosphere around it despite how many visitors to the island there were. It’s located near Senjokaku (Toyokuni Shrine), another impressive structure that’s worth checking out while you're in the area. Walking through the small streets that lead to the pagoda feels like stepping back in time.

While the main draw of Miyajima is often the famous floating torii gate, the Gojūnotō is an equally memorable sight and a key part of the island’s rich historical and spiritual landscape. Even just from the outside as part of your visit to Itsukushima, its...

The Itsukushima Shrine Five-Story Pagoda, located on Miyajima Island near Hiroshima, is a striking example of medieval Japanese architecture, constructed in 1407. Its design incorporates both Japanese and Chinese Zen Buddhism architectural techniques, which is evident from its vibrant vermilion color and the intricate wooden structure. This pagoda stands out not only for its historical and cultural significance but also for its artistic beauty, which harmoniously blends with the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. The pagoda, along with the nearby Senjyokaku pavilion, was commissioned by the powerful warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, reflecting the period's characteristic blending of Shinto and Buddhist influences. Visitors to the pagoda can enjoy panoramic views that include the famous "floating" torii gate of the shrine, especially compelling...

Stunning five-tiered red Pagoda tower designating Japanese and Chinese architecture was built in 1407 stands on a hill near the Honden front shrine of Itsukushima Shrine. This pagoda initially used to enshrine a statue of Gautama Buddha and also statues of the bodhisattvas Samantabhadra and Manjushri, but these were moved to the Daiganji Temple on the opposite shore during the anti-Buddhism during 1868-1912 haibutsu kishaku movement of the Meiji period. Today, the pagoda has been designated a National Important...