Breathtakingly Beautiful: 5 Must-See Dreamlike “Waterfront Torii Gates” in Japan

Text & Photos /MATCHA

The Japanese believe that a torii gate marks the boundary between the human world and the realm of the gods. Passing through a torii gate means entering the divine domain. The most famous waterfront torii gate in Japan is undoubtedly the one at Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima, which attracts many tourists every year. But did you know that there are more waterfront torii gates in Japan besides the one at Itsukushima Shrine? MATCHA has compiled five torii gates from different locations—such as Oarai Isosaki Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture, Shirahige Shrine in Shiga Prefecture, Hakone Shrine in Kanagawa Prefecture, and Benten Shrine in Shizuoka Prefecture—to take you on a journey through serene landscapes where nature and religion blend harmoniously.

Hiroshima Prefecture: Itsukushima Shrine

The torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, standing tall in the sea, is celebrated as one of Japan’s Three Great Views. This torii gate stands 16 meters high and is said to weigh around 60 tons. The shrine was built 1,400 years ago and has undergone several renovations. The current torii gate was constructed about 140 years ago. With the changing seasons and shifting sunlight throughout the day, every visit offers a unique view.

More details:【Japan’s Three Great Views】Visit the Floating Giant Torii Gate at Hiroshima’s Itsukushima Shrine (Miyajima)

Ibaraki Prefecture: Oarai Isosaki Shrine

Oarai Isosaki Shrine in Ibaraki is located along the Oarai Coast and is dedicated to the deity Ookuninushi-no-Mikoto, who is believed to protect family safety and ensure business prosperity. Established in 856 AD, this shrine has a long history and is famous for its spectacular sunrises. The sunlight at dawn paints the entire sky in shades of purple and red, creating a mystical and romantic atmosphere. It’s no wonder it has been selected as one of “Japan’s 100 Best Hidden Views”!

Oarai Isosaki Shrine

Shiga Prefecture: Shirahige Shrine

Shirahige Shrine is located in Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture, and was built in 1900 in the middle of Lake Biwa. As the head shrine of all Shirahige Shrines across Japan, it is often referred to as the “Mikami’s Itsukushima Shrine.” The main deity enshrined here is Sarutahiko-no-Mikoto, the god of traffic safety, longevity, evil prevention, and business prosperity. Gazing at the torii gate standing in the shimmering waters of Lake Biwa brings a sense of peace to the mind.

Shirahige Shrine

Kanagawa Prefecture: Hakone Shrine

Surrounded by lake and mountains, Hakone Shrine was established in 757 and is the largest shrine in the Hakone area. The shrine’s Heiwa Torii Gate was built after Japan regained independence from U.S. occupation, commissioned by the Emperor at the time to pray for the safety of ships. The vermilion torii gate, standing amidst lush greenery, gives the Heiwa Torii a unique atmosphere unlike other waterfront torii gates.

Hakone Shrine (Kuzuryu Shrine)

Shizuoka Prefecture: Benten Shrine

Located on the western side of Hamana Lake in Hamamatsu City. About 500 years ago, an earthquake and tsunami mixed seawater and freshwater, giving Hamana Lake a unique ecosystem—it’s a great destination for sightseeing in Japan. From Benten Island Beach Park, a famous spot near Hamana Lake, you can see the waterfront torii gate of Benten Shrine. The most famous view here is the sunset, when the moment the sun dips below the horizon, the lake water is dyed in a stunning, dreamy shade of orange-red.

Conclusion

These Japan-exclusive views carry the Japanese people’s deep reverence for the divine, as well as a rich historical background. The next time you visit Japan, consider adding these spots to your itinerary to experience the beautiful convergence of tradition and nature in Japan.

Author: MATCHA
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