Uncovering the Mystery of Torii: A Guide to the Significance and Creation of Japan's Iconic Gateway.

People worldwide are known for Japan with its immersive culture, enrooted traditions, and long-standing infrastructures. Japan is renowned for its rich culture, deeply rooted traditions, and impressive infrastructure, drawing in visitors from around the world.

The Torii Gate is an integral part of Japanese culture, especially if you are interested in its cultural dimension. When you travel to Japan, you will encounter several temples and Shinto shrines. Before entering them, you will see the iconic Torii Gate.

What is so facinating about Torri? What is the history?

The Torii Gate has a fascinating history. Its name comes from the Japanese words 鳥 (tori), meaning "bird," and 居 (i), meaning "to stay." Initially, it was created as a perch for birds on the roof of a building. However, over time, it became a sacred structure. But what led to this transformation from a simple bird perch to a revered symbol? The history comes from the story of one female God, Amaterasu, hidden in Ama-no-Iwayado; the gods made birds perch on a tree and chirp to open the door. As the deity passes through the door, it becomes a sacred landmark, and the bird's perch, which is the door itself, transforms into a revered symbol. Originally, Torii was crafted with the tree. As the year lasted, it was built with a red color.

Why red? Not other color?

Red is believed to bring the sunlight and warmth needed for rice cultivation. Red is also thought to ward off evil and has long been used in Japan for shrines, temples, and palaces. For this reason, many shrines with red torii gates can be found outside of Inari shrines. Especially since the Edo period (1603-1867), shrine architecture has gradually become more colorful, and red (vermilion) torii gates can be seen. Furthermore, tan (mercury), the raw material for red color, also serves as a preservative for wood.

What is the custom of Torii? And How do we interpret it?

The torii serves as a gateway to the shrine and signifies the shrine's importance. It is also believed to act as a boundary that prevents impure objects from entering the holy place. Most shrines have only one torii, but some more prominent shrines may have multiple torii. The first torii, Ichi-no-Torii, is located farthest from the main shrine, followed by the second, Ni-no-Torii, and the third, San-no-Torii. After passing through the torii, one can approach the sacred place where the deity is worshipped. In shrines where natural objects are enshrined instead of a central shrine, the torii serves as a structure that reveals the presence of the deity.

直島・恵美須神社鳥居

One of the fascinating landmarks in the country is the Torii Gate, located at the entrance of the Ema Shrine on Naoshima Island. This island is known as the "art island" because of its vibrant contemporary art scene. It is located close to our headquarters in Kojima, Kurashiki. To reach Naoshima Island, you would need to take a 45-minute drive to the Uno port, followed by a 20-minute ferry ride. Once you arrive on the island, you can find the Torii gate at the entrance to the Ema Shrine.

Please share your thoughts about Torri and Japanese culture. We would love to know your opinion. Thank you for reading!

Reference: https://www.e-sogi.com/guide/26834/

: https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E9%B3%A5%E5%B1%85