The Five Storyed Pagoda

A striking vermillion structure that is one of the finest examples of the crafts associated with Zen Buddhism, the Five Storyed Pagoda is a popular stop on Miyajima Island. Located on top of a hill that is accessed by several steep staircases, it looks brilliant from any given angle. Constructed sometime in 1407, you have to crane your neck in order to get a good look at this soaring Buddhist architectural delight. Around 27 m in height, it was restored in the year 1533 with its signature red lacquer and is a Specially Preserved Building in Japan. The shrine is dedicated to the Buddha of Medicine along with the saints Monju and Fugen. However, their representations were removed during the Meiji era. With lotus and leek flowers and dragon motifs embellishing its wooden interiors, the Five Storyed Pagoda is thronged by curious travellers from all over the world.

It is rather interesting to note that while the pagoda is majorly constructed in Japanese style, some of the wooden pillars are reflective of Chinese influences. Moreover, the central pillar of this structure goes right up to the top of the roof from the second story and not the foundation of the pagoda. Situated left of the torii gate, the names of all of the magnanimous donors, a majority of whom were women, are carved on the sixteen pillars of this beautiful creation.