One of Japan’s unique structure would be the Torii gates found near shrines. For Today’s Japan photo series, we will look at the unique Torii of Itsukushima Shrine [厳島神社].

The photo is taken off William Bullimore’s flickr, the strong red color of the Torii provides a nice contrast against the background and the low-tide shore.

A little more information on this particular Torii:

The dramatic gate (torii) of Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan’s most popular tourist attractions, and the view of the gate in front of the island’s Mount Misen is classified as one of the Three Views of Japan (along with the sand bar Amanohashidate, and Matsushima Bay). The gate has existed since 1168, though the current gate dates back to 1875. The gate, built of camphor wood, is about 16 metres high and was built in a four-legged style to provide additional stability.

The gate only appears to be floating at high tide; when the tide is low, the gate is surrounded by mud and can be accessed by foot from the island. It is common practice for visitors to place coins in the cracks of the legs of the gate and make a wish. Gathering shellfish near the gate is also popular at low tide. At night, powerful lights on the shore illuminate the gate.