What other travelers are saying about Hokokujinja Senjokaku Pavilion
This is such a beautiful visit! Definitely come here and have a walk around inside. You pay a small entry fee and have to remove your shoes, but it is well worth it. You can see beautiful paintings inside as well as a shrine. Make the time to see this while you're on the island!
More about Hokokujinja Senjokaku Pavilion from our blog
Frequently Asked Questions
The pavilion was commissioned by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1587 to be a Buddhist library for the chanting of Buddhist sutras. However, Hideyoshi died before it was completed, and the hall remains unfinished.
The interior is characterized by its open space, large wooden beams, and numerous ema (wooden prayer plaques) and votive pictures displayed on the walls.
Yes, there is a small entrance fee to help with the maintenance and preservation of the site.
The pavilion can be visited year-round, but spring and autumn are especially popular for the cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, respectively.
The pavilion is located near the Itsukushima Shrine and offers panoramic views of the shrine and the surrounding area from its elevated position.
So glad we didn’t miss this shrine as lots of people do when visit island. Amazing views all around and fascinating structure and murals. If you are into plants, there is one of the oldest Sago Palm by its entrance you will ever find.
Beautiful shrine with a big pagoda, overlooking the scenery from a small hill next to the main shrine and the big Tori. The wooden hall is stunning with enormous pillars. We were there on a very hot day and enjoyed a break sitting on the wooden deck with a nice sea breeze. I was surprised that it was nearly completely empty. Entry fee is 100 ¥. So absolutely worth it to relax there for a while.
When we made our plans to the island we didn't know or plan to visit here but I am so glad we stumbled upon it. The shrine was beyond cool to me. It was open and you could walk freely around under the huge timbers of the roof and columns. Originally built in the 16th century it is a sight to see. And one of the best things, very few tourists.
There's a slight climb to the pavilion and you need to pay to enter. They will give you a bag to put your shoes in as no shoes are to be worn inside. The floor was very cold since I visited in February. If you don't have thick socks, it might become difficult to walk inside during winter months.
