Behold Japan’s largest wooden torii gate. It marks the entrance to the sacred Meiji Jingu Shrine. Meiji Jingu Nino Torii stands tall and beautiful. It is the second of three torii gates from the south. Visitors often stop to take selfies here. I’ll tell you why this gate is so special.
This torii is not just any gate. It symbolizes Meiji Jingu. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo. The sheer size of the Meiji Jingu Nino Torii is impressive. It stands 12 meters tall and 17.1 meters wide. Each pillar is 1.2 meters in diameter. Together, the two pillars weigh 13 metric tons.
Originally, the Meiji Jingu Nino Torii was built in 1920. It used a 1200-year-old Japanese cypress tree. This tree came from the Alishan Mountain Range in Taiwan. Sadly, lightning destroyed the original gate in 1966. A timber merchant from Tokyo vowed to rebuild it. He wanted to thank the kami for protecting his business.
Finding a suitable tree was difficult. No tree of the right size could be found in Japan. The merchant visited Taiwan many times. Finally, he found a 1500-year-old Japanese cypress on Danda Mountain. With much help, the tree was cut down. It was then transported to Meiji Jingu. The new Meiji Jingu Nino Torii was completed in 1975.
The Meiji Jingu Shrine itself is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It was built in 1920. The shrine offers a peaceful escape. Tall trees surround the shrine. This creates a serene atmosphere away from the city’s noise.
The Imperial Household Agency oversaw the forest’s design. The forest itself was considered holy even before the shrine was built. The Meiji Jingu Nino Torii leads visitors to this sacred place. Remember to appreciate the serene atmosphere. Listen to the calming greenery and bird sounds. The Meiji Jingu Shrine is a place of spiritual retreat. The Meiji Jingu Nino Torii is the gate to this tranquil experience. It is a reminder of history and dedication. So, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and significance.