Many of you are familiar with the torii (鳥居), the iconic gate found at shrines in Japan. As you can see in your emoji list ⛩️, they are most commonly a striking red or vermilion color. But have you ever wondered about the deeper meaning behind this vibrant hue?
What is a Torii?
A torii is a traditional gate that stands at the entrance of a Shinto shrine. It functions as a sacred boundary, marking the transition from the profane world where humans live to the sacred space inhabited by the Kami (gods and goddesses). Structurally, a torii consists of two horizontal bars supported by two vertical pillars. On Japanese maps, the torii symbol is used to denote the location of Shinto shrines.
Why is the Torii red or vermilion?
Actually there is a reason why torii has is red or vermilion. In Japan, red is a symbol of fire and the sun, which is also considered as the color of life, which has a function to reject evil spirits, danger, and bad luck. It is believed that the red torii in front of a shrine wards off evil spirits, danger, and bad luck. Apart from having a spiritual function, the red color has a preservative function. Red paint is usually made using mercury, which has been used as a preservative for wood since ancient times.
Famous Torii in Japan
In Japan, there are many temples that have become iconic because of their torii.
Motonosumi Inari Shrine
Motonosumi Inari Shrine located in Yamaguchi prefecture, the 123 gates here make it one of the 31 most beautiful attractions in Japan.
Itsukushima Shrine
Itsukushima Shrine at Miyajima in Hiroshima has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The torii can be approached during low tide but when the tide is high, you can see it ethereally floating above the water.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Taisha located in Kyoto is famous for its beautiful and extraordinary paths lined with torii. Possibly one of the most photographed attractions in Japan, tourists visit this temple to admire the thousands of torii! If you want to take a memorable shot of yourself with torii, head to these shrines in Tokyo!.
A Gateway to the Divine
The red torii remains the ultimate symbol of Japan’s spiritual landscape. Whether you are walking through the thousands of gates in Kyoto or seeing the sea-sprayed vermilion in Yamaguchi, these structures remind us of the ancient balance between nature, humanity, and the divine.
