Senjokaku Pavilion

Senjokaku, also known as Senjokaku Hall or Toyokuni Shrine, is a historic structure located on Miyajima Island in Japan. Miyajima Island is renowned for its iconic “floating” torii gate, which is considered one of the Three Views of Japan. Senjokaku is situated on the slopes of Mount Misen, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and the famous Itsukushima Shrine.

Senjokaku translates to “hall of one thousand tatami mats,” and it is a large wooden hall with an impressive, spacious interior. The hall was originally constructed in 1587 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a powerful feudal lord and warrior during the Sengoku period of Japanese history. 

The construction of Senjokaku was not completed during Hideyoshi’s lifetime, and the hall remains unfinished to this day. Despite its incomplete state, the hall is a significant historical and cultural site. The interior of Senjokaku features massive wooden pillars and a high ceiling, creating a sense of grandeur.

Adjacent to Senjokaku is the Toyokuni Shrine, which is dedicated to Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The shrine complex also includes a beautiful five-storied pagoda known as the Gojunoto Pagoda.

Senjokaku and its surroundings are part of the larger Itsukushima Shrine complex, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Itsukushima Shrine is famous for its picturesque torii gate that appears to float on the water during high tide. The entire island of Miyajima is considered a sacred site, and both locals and tourists visit to experience its natural beauty and cultural significance.