Database: Torii

Torii gates, often exhibiting significant height and typically painted in an orange-red hue, are architectural structures placed at the entrances of Shinto shrines or along the pathways leading to them. Records of their utilization dates back to the 8th century. Structurally, they consist of two vertical pillars connected by two horizontal beams and are predominantly constructed from wood, though stone variants exist. The name of the shrine is frequently inscribed on the torii. These gates serve to symbolically demarcate the sacred space of the shrine and are integral components of the religious complex. Consequently, torii gates are held in high regard by the Japanese populace. Any acts of vandalism or disrespect towards them, such as climbing on them, are deemed inconceivable.