The floating torii

Believed to be the boundary that separates the mortal world from its spiritual counterpart, the great floating torii is a downright marvel. The gateway to the Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, it is the most conspicuous sight in the ‘Mediterranean of Japan’, the Seto Inland Sea and perfectly encapsulates the warmth and grandeur of the shrine. Considering how stable and indomitable it appears, most people are of the belief that the six pillared torii is buried into the depths of the seabed. However, in reality, it stands rather gracefully, on its weight and glides on the surface of the water during high tide. The topmost bit of this gate is filled with some seven tonnes of stones and you can see the sun and the moon painted on the east and the west of its roof, respectively. Its bright saffron-vermillion colour is believed to ward off evil spirits while protecting the structure from corrosion. Interestingly, the very first torii was constructed in as early as 1168.

While you can walk right up to the torii during the low tide, it makes for a brilliant view as it floats when the tide is high. Do not be surprised if you see excited travellers going kayaking under it. Dusk is the best time to take pictures of this beauty and night-time is for contemplation while facing its illuminated magnificence.