The Architecture of Japanese Temples and Shrines

Japan is full of shrines and temples in both large cities and small towns. And no matter how far apart they are from each other, they all follow the same construction scheme .

Shrines and temples are built in different architectural styles that can often be distinguished by the shape of the roof . These styles are generally called ” zukuri “, which derives from the Japanese word ” tsukuru “, to build or make. The architecture of the shrines and temples changes over time, being influenced by both distinctive Chinese architecture and Buddhist styles. These are some of the most notable styles.

Shinmei-zukuri

This style is based on simplicity and is derived from the ancient Japanese building style, its roots dating back to the Kofun period (250 – 538). Constructed of unfinished wood, Shinmei-zukuri shrines are further distinguished by the gabled roof with decorative logs called ” chigi ” and ” katsuogi “, as well as the raised floor.

Taisha-zukuri

This is the oldest style regarding Shinto shrine architecture and is easily confused with the shinmei-zukuri style. Its origin comes from the ancient forms of construction of homes and warehouses. It is characteristic for its unique and distinctive central pillar called shin no mihashira , its gabled roof, as well as the decorative logs that can also be found in shinmei-zukuri . The most famous shrine built in this style is the Izumo Taisha , hence its name. The famous Izumo-taisha , located in Shimane Prefecture, is built in a slight variation of the classic Taisha-zukuri style as the shrine’s beautiful gabled roof is curved rather than straight.

There are certain characteristic decorations, buildings and ornaments found in shrine and temple buildings throughout Japan. These are the most common:

Torii 鳥居

The torii (lit. bird gate) marks the entrance to a Shinto shrine and therefore separates the sacred realm of the kami (gods) and the world of mortals. While there may be more than one, such as the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine in Kyoto, almost all shrines have at least one torii . When passing a torii , be sure to pass on one side, as kami are believed to pass through the center.

Sando 参道

Filled with lanterns and other decorations that are often unique to the temple’s kami , worshipers walk the sando , or ” visiting path “, to prepare for the actual visit to the shrine. Calmness of the heart, makoto , is requested from anyone who wishes to communicate with a kami .

Temizuya 手水舎

Also called chozuya , this water-filled fountain is used for purification and is found in both shrines and temples . Worshipers wash their hands and mouths with a ladle usually made of wood, sometimes metal, before approaching the main hall. You can see our guide to washing your hands and purifying yourself in the Temizu .

Bull 灯籠

The stone lanterns that cover the sando are a reference to the Buddhist concept of the elements. Each lantern represents earth , water , fire , wind and spirit in different segments, reminding us that after death , our bodies will return to their elemental form .

Kagura-den 神楽殿

The kagura-den is a building where the sacred dance called kagura is performed during ceremonies and celebrations. On certain occasions, it is also used for weddings and Noh plays . Kagura-den can only be found in shrines and not in Buddhist temples.

Ema 絵馬

These wooden plaques are found in both shrines and temples and serve as a place where worshipers write their wishes or prayers, so that the kami can read them and grant them. These plaques are typically decorated with paintings, often unique to the shrine or temple in which they are sold.

Sessha 摂社 / Massha 末社

These are auxiliary shrines often used to worship a specific object in relation to the kami , or even another affiliated kami to which the main shrine is dedicated. However, sometimes these auxiliary shrines are simply built to further deepen the bond between the shrine and the kami within it.

Komainu 狛犬

These creatures that appear to be a mix of lions and dogs generally protect the inner sanctum, preventing any evil that wishes to enter the sanctuary. They can sometimes also be found in other forms, such as foxes at Inari shrines.

Haiden 拝殿

The haiden is an oratory or worship hall that is placed in front of the main sanctuary. This is where ceremonies are performed and prayers are made to the kami . Between the haiden and the main hall , you can find a so-called heiden , which acts as an offering hall.

Tamagaki 玉垣

This is a fence surrounding the main building of the shrine in which the kami is enshrined.

Honden 本殿

This is the main hall of the Shinto shrine, where the kami resides, most often represented by a mirror or a statue of the kami himself. This room is off limits to the public, being the most sacred place and the heart of the sanctuary. In the main hall of Buddhist temples, you can find an image of the Buddhist deity to which the temple is dedicated.

Chigi 千木 / Katsuogi 鰹木

These are ornaments used to decorate the ceiling of the main hall of the sanctuary. These are unique to Shinto shrines and help distinguish a Shinto shrine from a Buddhist building .

Would you like to visit a temple or sanctuary? Have you visited any temples or shrines on your visit to Japan? Tell us in the comments!