Research on the Construction of the Itsukushima Shrine on the Sea (Part 2): Consideration on the Flat Stage of Itsukushima Shrine

A re-evaluation of the Hirabutai (flat stage) of Itsukushima Shinto Shrine challenges the long-held belief that its construction served as a proactive disaster mitigation strategy. Unlike conventional assumptions, the study finds that the columns and girders of the flat stage were not interconnected by clamps or similar means, suggesting it was designed to remain consistently surfaced rather than adapt to tidal changes. This indicates that the structure was likely not intended to protect the main shrine from damage through a 'raft-like' mechanism, but rather functioned as a stable platform. The research employs architectural analysis and historical context to reconsider the engineering principles behind this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site.

AIDA, Y., KUROYANAGI, A., & MASUDA, K. (2024). 厳島神社の海上への社殿建立に関する調査研究（その２）：厳島神社の平舞台に関する考察. Journal of Architecture and Planning (Transactions of AIJ), 89(816), 232–239. https://doi.org/10.3130/aija.89.232