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The dramatic torii of Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan's most popular attractions. The gate has existed since 1168, though the current gate was reconstructed in 1875. Built of camphor wood and standing about 16 metres high the gate was built in a four legged style to provide additional stability. The gate only appears to be floating and only at high tide. When the tide is low the gate is surrounded by mud. Retaining the purity of the island is so important that no deaths or births were...
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The dramatic torii of Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan's most popular attractions. The gate has existed since 1168, though the current gate was reconstructed in 1875. Built of camphor wood and standing about 16 metres high the gate was built in a four legged style to provide additional stability. The gate only appears to be floating and only at high tide. When the tide is low the gate is surrounded by mud. Retaining the purity of the island is so important that no deaths or births were permitted in the area until quite recently.
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