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Shrines
Built for the purpose of enshrining Shinto spirits and other kami, shrines are religious structures that are found in plenty around Japan. They
are used for the storage of sacred objects, not for worship, and can be small, such as roadside miniature shrines and matsuri portable shrines;
or large, such as those that occupy an entire hill, with streams and forests, and consist of a main shrine and a number of mini shrines. Shinto
shrines vary in design, architecture and layout.
The two most popular Shinto shrine styles found in Japan are:
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Nagare-zukuri
With a distinctive gabled roof that is quite asymmetrical, the nagare-zukuri style is the number one most common shrine style in the country.
Its roof extends farther outwards on one side, forming a porch-like main entrance. Its layout features an elevated central area, a verandah, and
a small room right by the entrance.
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Kasuga-zukuri
This style is known for its very small building, usually only about 2 metres wide and 2 metres long, and a roof that is adorned with logs and
billets that curve upward and are wrapped in cypress bark. Generally, shrines of this style are painted white (plank walls) and vermillion
(foundation and support structures).
Nikko Toshogu Shrine
Common Features
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Torii – The Shinto gate.
Toro – The decorative stone lanterns found all over the complex.
Stone stairs – These lead to the main hall of the shrine and to the other small shrines.
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