JAPAN ~ Itsukushima Shrine - Miyajima island - UNESCO ~

... Nice view of a traditional Shinto religious centre set as an artistic creation in its natural environment... this island is considered to be a holy place of Shintoism which combines nature and human creativity... the shrine is unique for being built over water, seemingly floating in the sea during high tide... the present shrine dates from the 12th century and the harmoniously arranged buildings reveal great artistic and technical skill... it consists of multiple buildings, including a prayer hall, main hall and noh theater stage, which are connected by boardwalks and supported by pillars above the sea... with great pictorial postmarks... Thanks Asami!【ツ】

The shrine was originally built in 6th century for the goddess of the sea who Japanese believe to be a daughter of the sun goddess who created Japan. The shrine became a favorite shrine of Taira clan, one of the most powerful families in ancient Japan. This clan declared Miyashima as a holy island and not allowed people to birth or die on the island in order to keep the purity of the holy land. The shrine was rebuilt many times but always in the old design.

It is on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list since 1996.
 

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