What is Senjokaku (Toyokuni Shrine)?
Senjokaku is a large sutra hall commissioned by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1587 to commemorate those who died in battle. Its official name is “Toyokuni Shrine,” but it is affectionately known as “Senjokaku” (Thousand Tatami Mat Hall) due to its vast size, equivalent to 857 tatami mats.
Construction was interrupted after Hideyoshi’s death, leaving the ceiling and front doors unfinished to this day. This unfinished state creates a unique atmosphere, and the floorboards have developed a beautiful sheen over time.
Architectural Features
- Vast Space: A wooden building with 13 bays (approx. 24m) in length and 8 bays (approx. 15m) in width.
- Open Structure: An open design with no walls, allowing wind to flow through from all sides.
- Thick Pillars: Zelkova pillars, approximately 1m in diameter, support the building.
- Beauty of Unfinished Work: A unique landscape where the beam structure is visible without ceiling boards.
Points to Note for Visitors
Scenic Spot
Senjokaku is located on a small hill behind Itsukushima Shrine. The views from inside the building and the surrounding area are among the most beautiful on Miyajima Island.
- View of the Seto Inland Sea: Enjoy a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and Honshu across the water from this open, wall-less space.
- Overlooking Itsukushima Shrine: A superb photo spot offering a bird’s-eye view of the Itsukushima Shrine’s main hall and torii gate from this elevated location.
- Side-by-side with the Five-Storied Pagoda: The contrast with the adjacent vermilion-painted five-storied pagoda is beautiful.
Historical Highlights
Votive Ema (votive tablets): Numerous large votive tablets, donated from the Edo period to the Meiji period, are displayed. These are valuable historical materials that convey the culture of the time, depicting ships, Kabuki scenes, and more.
The Shine of the Floorboards: After more than 400 years, the floorboards, polished by the feet of worshippers, shine with an amber color, exuding a unique beauty.
Points to Note When Visiting
- Since you will need to remove your shoes before entering, it is recommended to wear footwear that is easy to take off.
- To protect the floorboards, please refrain from wearing high heels.
- Photography is permitted inside, but please refrain from using flash photography.
Benefits
Senjokaku (Toyokuni Shrine) enshrines Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Kato Kiyomasa, and is believed to offer the following benefits:
- Career Advancement and Good Fortune: Following in the footsteps of Hideyoshi, this shrine is believed to bring success, advancement, and good fortune.
- Long-lasting Military Fortune: As it enshrines a Sengoku period warlord, it is believed to bring success in competitions and overcome difficulties.
- Academic Achievement: Wisdom is bestowed based on Hideyoshi’s strategic brilliance.
- Business Prosperity: This shrine is believed to be modeled after the success of Hideyoshi, who became the ruler of Japan.
Access and Visiting Information
Directions
Walking from Miyajima Pier: Approximately 10 minutes
- Exit Miyajima Pier and proceed straight along Omotesando Shopping Street.
- Pass the exit of Itsukushima Shrine.
- Climb the stone steps to the top of the hill (next to the Five-Storied Pagoda).
From Itsukushima Shrine: Approximately 3 minutes on foot (climb the stone steps at the back).
Visiting Hours and Fees
- Visiting Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (may vary depending on the season)
- Admission Fee: 100 yen (Free for high school students and younger)
- Estimated time required: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Combinations with surrounding facilities
- Five-story pagoda: Adjacent (exterior only)
- Itsukushima Shrine: 3-minute walk
- Daishoin Temple: 10-minute walk
- Miyajima Ropeway Station: 15-minute walk
Best season to visit
Spring (late March to April): Cherry blossom season. The combination of the surrounding cherry blossoms and Senjokaku is beautiful.
Autumn (November): Autumn foliage season. The contrast between the Seto Inland Sea and the autumn leaves is magnificent.
Summer evening: Due to its open structure, a cool breeze blows through, and you can enjoy the view of the Seto Inland Sea bathed in the setting sun.
Summary
Senjokaku is a representative historical building of Miyajima, a fusion of Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s grand vision and the beauty of its unfinished state. Its open atmosphere, distinct from Itsukushima Shrine, and the breathtaking views from its elevated position are its main attractions. When visiting Miyajima, be sure to climb the stone steps and experience this special place.
