Question 1

Is the Kashima Shrine West Torii accessible by car?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the torii gate is accessible by car with free street parking available along the embankment. However, the road is narrow and in a residential area, so visitors are advised to be mindful of neighbors and parking consideration.

Question 2

What makes this torii gate special?

Accepted Answer

The Kashima Shrine West Torii is one of Japan's largest water torii gates, standing 18.5 meters high from the riverbed and 22.5 meters wide. Completed in 2013, it's built with weather-resistant steel and stands gracefully over Lake Kitaura.

Question 3

When is the best time to photograph the torii?

Accepted Answer

The torii gate offers stunning photo opportunities during sunset, when the vermillion structure creates a striking silhouette against the evening sky. Many photographers also praise the mystical atmosphere during foggy mornings.

Question 4

What is the historical significance of this torii?

Accepted Answer

The site has been an important economic and cultural point for water transport since ancient times, serving as the gateway to Kashima Shrine. During the Edo period, it was featured in Utagawa Hiroshige's Famous Places of the Sixty-odd Provinces.

Question 5

Is there direct access to Kashima Shrine from the torii?

Accepted Answer

While this torii is one of four directional gates of Kashima Shrine, it's located quite far from the main shrine buildings. It takes approximately 20 minutes on foot from Kashima-jingu Station to reach this western torii gate.