About the National Treasure, Itsukushima Shrine
Located on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima Prefecture, Itsukushima Shrine is said to have been founded in the first year of the reign of Empress Suiko (593 AD). The foundations of its shrine buildings were established toward the end of the Heian period by Taira no Kiyomori.
In 1996, the shrine was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This designation recognizes the integrated landscape formed by the vermilion-lacquered shrine buildings and the Great Torii (O-torii) gate—all standing above the sea—along with the surrounding waters and the primeval forest of Mount Misen in the background. The shrine complex includes the *Haraedono* (purification hall) for cleansing the minds and bodies of worshippers; the *Monkyaku* shrines, which serve as guardians; the *Gakubo* (music chambers) used for *bugaku* (traditional court dance and music) performances; and the *Takabutai* (high stage) where such performances are dedicated to the deities. The vermilion Great Torii, rising from the sea, is widely recognized as a symbol of this sacred realm; its appearance shifts with the ebb and flow of the tide. The magnificent ensemble of these structures serves as a living testament to traditional Japanese architecture and religious culture.
About the Kit
This kit provides a precise 1/120-scale reproduction of the iconic structures of Itsukushima Shrine, including the *Haraedono*, the *Hirabutai* (main open stage), the surrounding corridors, the *Gakubo* (music chambers), and the *Monkyaku* shrines. Additionally, the Great Torii—which rises from the sea—is modeled at a 1/200 scale, capturing its striking presence in three dimensions.
The primary components are crafted from high-quality, laser-cut Japanese cypress (*hinoki*), while intricate details—such as stone lanterns, *komainu* (guardian lion-dogs), and *giboshi* (ornamental finials)—are rendered using finely crafted metal parts. The kit also includes a film sheet representing the water surface. This allows you to recreate a scene of buildings that appear to be floating upon the water.
As you assemble the model, you can appreciate both the beauty of Japan’s historic architecture and the exquisite, intricate craftsmanship unique to a wooden model designed with meticulous attention to detail.
*The photos show a prototype; the actual product may differ.
*Paint is not included in the kit.
■ 28 types of laser-cut wooden parts ■ 19 types of wooden parts ■ 4 types of metal parts
Materials: Natural wood (such as Japanese cypress/hinoki and linden/shina), metal
Included items: Assembly instructions, rafter templates, patterned paper for lattice designs, and a film sheet representing the water surface
Package dimensions: 470 mm × 245 mm × 60 mm (thickness)
Weight when completed: 1,100 g
