What is Torii Gate of the Shrine

A torii gate is a traditional Japanese gate found at the entrance of a Shinto shrine, which marks the transition from the secular world to the sacred space within the shrine. The gate is typically made of wood or stone and is painted vermilion (red) with a black or dark brown upper lintel. The gate has two upright posts, two crossbeams, and a roof, and is often adorned with decorative elements such as shimenawa (sacred ropes) and shide (paper zigzag streamers). The torii gate is not only a physical barrier between the sacred and secular worlds, but it is also believed to provide spiritual protection and purification for those who pass through it.

Why the Torii Gate of Shinto Shrines Has a Red Color?

The traditional color of the torii gate found at the entrance of a Shinto shrine is vermilion, which is a shade of red. This color is believed to have spiritual significance in Japanese culture. The vermilion color is thought to represent the passing from the everyday world into a sacred space and to symbolize the divine and the sacred, as well as the power of the gods. The color is also believed to have purifying properties, and passing through the gate is said to purify the mind and body, as well as the soul of the visitors before they enter the shrine. Additionally, the color is believed to have protective qualities, and it is thought that the gods will be pleased by the gate's appearance and will provide blessings and protection to the shrine.

Another possible reason why the gate is red is because it is one of the most durable colors, at the past the pigments used to paint the gate was made of ochre, which are red iron oxide and it lasted longer than other options under harsh weather conditions.

History behind the Torii Gate

The torii gate is an important architectural feature in the Shinto tradition, and its origins can be traced back to ancient Japan. The earliest known examples of torii gates date back to the Heian period (794-1185), which was a time when the indigenous Shinto religion was becoming firmly established and its customs and practices were being codified. At this time, the torii gate was a simple gate-like structure that served as a marker of the boundary between the sacred and secular worlds.

During the Kamakura period (1185-1333), the torii gate began to take on more elaborate and decorative forms, as the growing prosperity of Japan allowed for the construction of larger and more ornate shrines. It's at this time when it took on its recognisable form as a gate with two upright posts, two crossbeams, and a roof. In the Edo period (1603-1868), the torii gate reached the peak of its development, as the shogunate, the government of the time, actively promoted the construction of large and elaborate shrines, and many wealthy merchants also built or sponsored the construction of shrines. The torii gate became an increasingly important symbol of the power and prestige of the shrine, as well as its ability to provide blessings and protection. Today, torii gates are still an important architectural feature at Shinto shrines, and they continue to serve as a marker of the transition from the secular to the sacred, as well as a symbol of the power and presence of the gods.

Different types Torii Gate

There are several different types of torii gates that are commonly found at Shinto shrines in Japan. Some of the most common types include:

	Ichi no torii: The simplest form of torii, this is a single gate with a sloping roof.
	Ni no torii: Consist of two gates, one behind the other, which creates an inner and outer gate. This type of torii is also known as a "Sandō torii" and typically marks the main entrance to a shrine.
	Rōmon: Rōmon Torii is a two-story torii gate, which is usually found at the entrance to a temple rather than a shrine.
	Myōjin torii: A type of torii gate that features a curved top beam, and typically found at shrines dedicated to the gods of business or prosperity.
	Kabuki torii: This is a decorative style of torii gate with elaborate carvings, gold leaf, and other embellishments. The name comes from the association with Kabuki theater which used this style as an entrance to their stages.
	Tsukubai torii: This type of torii gate has a small water basin, called a tsukubai, in front of it, which is used for purification rituals before entering the shrine.
	Shimenawa torii: This type of torii gate is adorned with large sacred ropes, called shimenawa, and shide paper zigzag streamers that are used for purification rituals. This type of gate is found at shrines associated with mountain worship.

All torii gates feature the same basic architectural elements, but the size, shape, and decoration can vary widely depending on the shrine and its purpose.

Advantages/Importance 

Torii gates serve several important purposes in the Shinto tradition

Marking the boundary: Torii gates mark the boundary between the secular world and the sacred space of the shrine, indicating that one is entering a special and sacred place.

Providing protection: Torii gates are believed to provide spiritual protection and purification for those who pass through them, ensuring that the mind, body, and soul are cleansed and prepared for the worship of the gods.

Symbol of the gods: Torii gates are often considered to be the dwelling place of the gods, and they are believed to be imbued with their power and presence.

Worship: Torii gates provide access to the main worship hall, where offerings and prayers can be made to the gods.

Sign of respect: By passing through the torii gate, visitors are showing respect and reverence for the gods and the shrine, as well as acknowledging the separation between the secular and sacred worlds.

Role in rituals: Torii gates often play a central role in Shinto rituals such as purification and blessings.

Aesthetics: The torii gates are an important architectural feature in the shinto tradition and their aesthetics play a role in how the shrines are perceived. The grandeur of the gate can reflect the power and prestige of the shrine.

In addition to these traditional uses, Torii gates have become a significant cultural symbol of Japan and are often used as a tourist attraction, and in some cases, as a decorative element in gardens and public spaces.

Created by: Chika Yoshimura