The architecture of the 80,000 Shinto shrines in Japan varies depending on geographical location, the deity worshipped, and the date of foundation. The earlier Shinto shrines tend to be simpler and less decorative affairs than those which came after the introduction of Buddhism and Chinese architectural styles in Japan from the 8th century CE onwards. Later shrines are brightly painted and have more sculptural elements, but there are many common features to all Shinto shrine complexes from the distinctive torii gateways to the gently sloping gabled roofs of even the smallest structures. In addition, balance and harmony with natural surroundings and an aesthetic of elegant understatement were always essential considerations for the ancient Japanese architect charged with creating a home on earth for the spirit of one or more of the Shinto gods.
More about: Shinto ArchitectureDefinition
Timeline
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4 BCETraditional founding date of the Ise Grand Shrine in honour of the Shinto goddess Amaterasu.
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478 CEThe founding of the Toyouke shrine at the Shinto Ise Grand Shrine in Japan.
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710 CEDate favoured by historians for the founding of the Kasuga Taisha Shinto shrine at Nara, Japan.
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711 CEThe Fushimi Inari shrine, dedicated to the Shinto rice god Inari, is founded near Kyoto.
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725 CEThe Usa shrine is founded in northern Kyushu and dedicated to the Shinto god Hachiman.
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768 CEOfficial founding date of the Kasuga Taisha Shinto shrine at Nara, Japan.
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794 CEEmperor Kammu builds the Shinto Herano shrine at Heiankyo (Kyoto).
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806 CEThe Shinto shrine of Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha is built on Mount Fuji.
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859 CEThe Iwashimizu shrine is built and dedicated to the Shinto god Hachiman in Heiankyo (Kyoto).
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947 CEThe Tenmangu Kitano shrine is founded in honour of Sugawara no Michizane, aka Tenjin.
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1135 CEThe Wakamiya Jinja shrine is founded at Kasuga Taisha, Nara, Japan.
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1149 CEThe Dainichiji temple is built near the peak of Mount Fuji by Matsudai Shonin.
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1168 CETaira no Kiyomori significantly remodels the Itsukushima Shrine.