The beautiful curved roofs of the Goju-no-to Pagoda and strinking vermilion colouring are a familiar sight on the island of Miyajima. Standing on a hill overlooking the bay and Itsukushima Shrine, the pagoda was built in 1407 and is a curious mix of Chinese and Japanese architectural styles. The curved roofs show the Chinese influences while the walls and door show distinct Japanese traditions. On oddity in its construction is that while most Japanese pagodas have a central pillar which extends the whole way from the base right through all the floors to the top of the structure, the central pillar in Goju-no-to stops at the second floor.
The 27 metre high pagoda houses a Buddhist statue but visitors cannot enter the Pagoda. However admiring the pagoda from the outside, you will be rewarded with stunning carvings and paintings.
Written Sep 20, 2010
The Five-Tiered Pagoda (Gojyu-no-tou ) is a sight that you will see from almost any spot in Miyajima, because it was built on top of a small hill, overlooking the rest of the village. Unfortunately this pagoda is off-limits for tourists, so we did also not go any closer and I was lucky to have my strong tele-lens with me, so I could take some photos of the beautiful ornaments of the facade as well..
Updated May 15, 2009
The five tiered pavilion is just uphill from Itsukushima shrine. You can't enter the pavilion, but it is pretty from the outside. Plus, the walk up the hill is uncrowded and interesting. Plus plus, from the hill top you have a great view at the village below (see the second photo), the shrine, and island off toward the beach.
Written Oct 13, 2006
There is a beautiful Gojyu-no-tou (5 level tower) near the Itsukushima shrine.
The view of island and mainland is breath-taking especially in spring with cherry blossoms and in fall with leaves in different colors.
You'll also find small shrines and temples in the area.
Written May 8, 2005
Set in a peaceful spot up out of the way from the hords of tourists is this stunning structure, very old and entirely made from wood. It's something to really contemplate on and in true Shinto fashion it seems that the deer are more than aware of this.
Updated Jun 19, 2004
Address: Miyajima Island
(last date visited - Aug. 24, 2007
The Five Tiered Pavilion
Written Oct 24, 2007
A classic five story high pagoda.
Updated May 5, 2004
Written Feb 25, 2003
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Five-Tiered Pagoda tips and photos posted by real travelers and Miyajima locals.
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A classic five story high pagoda.
Q: Hi, I was just wondering if anyone could help me out on finding some very interesting sight places to see here? Also, can someone...

A: 1. The island proper; 2. Itsukushima Shrine (UNESCO World Heritage Site) 3. O-torii the famous water gate at the shrine. O-torii is illuminated at night. You can...
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the most famous red gate in japan

The holy island of Miyajima has been worshipped as a god since more than 1400 years. In the year 593 the origins of Itsukushima Shrine was built and many other shrines and temples followed and...
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Miyajima is one of the three most beautiful spots in Japan. I always try to go there when I'm back in Japan. Check the tide schedule so that you can see it standing in water. When the tide is out,......
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A short distance from Hiroshima, lies Miyajima. Miyajima is such a beautiful shrine. Depending on the water level, the entrance may be found out in the water. When I visited Miyajima, the water level...
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I found this place quite by accident while doing research for my trip to Japan with FMF. I was so glad I did and that I was able to visit Miyajima Island while in Japan. The entire island is a...
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Itsukushima, more commonly known as Miyajima, is an island close to the city of Hiroshima in the western region of Honshu. Just off the coast in Japan’s Inland Sea, Miyajima is an easy and worthwhile...
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