Five-storied Pagoda, Nikkō Tōshō-gū, Buddhist pagoda at Tōshō-gū shrine complex, Nikko, Japan
The five-storied pagoda at Tōshō-gū shrine stands 34.4 meters tall at the complex entrance and displays intricate wooden carvings across all its tiers. The layered structure combines traditional Buddhist architecture with refined craftsmanship visible throughout.
Built in 1650 as a gift from Tadakatsu Sakai, governor of Obama, the current structure was reconstructed in 1818 following a fire. This restoration demonstrates the structure's continued importance to the shrine complex.
The pagoda embodies the five elements of Buddhist philosophy through its tiers - earth, water, fire, wind, and sky - representing a journey toward spiritual elevation. Visitors observe this layered symbolism as they gaze at the structure from its base upward.
The structure uses an innovative earthquake protection system with a central pillar suspended from the fourth floor and positioned about 10 centimeters (3 feet) above ground. This design allows movement during tremors and provides stability for the entire framework.
Despite appearing to have multiple interior levels, the structure contains no actual floors inside its wooden framework. The hollow interior allows weight distribution and supports the earthquake-resistant design.
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