Toshogu Shrine in Nikko: the Five-storied Pagoda
Gojunoto or Five-storied Pagoda is designated as an Important Cultural Property by the government of Japan. The Gojunoto Pagoda was dedicated in 1648 by Sakai Tadakatsu, the feudal lord. The one that stands here today was built in 1818 to replace the earlier one destroyed by fire in 1815.
The pagoda stands 35 meters high. It is carefully constructed to withstand earthquakes and strong winds. It has no internal floors and a central column is suspended by a chain from the fourth story to support the ones below. This doesn’t rest on any foundations but is free to sway, thus functioning as a dynamic counterweight and allowing the wood to shrink or expand.
The pagoda’s five stories, from top to bottom, represent sky, fire, earth, water, and wind, as well as the five Buddhas of wisdom. It is decorated with the 12 Chinese zodiac signs on the first story.
Toshogu Shrine in Nikko: the Five-storied Pagoda
Gojunoto or Five-storied Pagoda is designated as an Important Cultural Property by the government of Japan. The Gojunoto Pagoda was dedicated in 1648 by Sakai Tadakatsu, the feudal lord. The one that stands here today was built in 1818 to replace the earlier one destroyed by fire in 1815.
The pagoda stands 35 meters high. It is carefully constructed to withstand earthquakes and strong winds. It has no internal floors and a central column is suspended by a chain from the fourth story to support the ones below. This doesn’t rest on any foundations but is free to sway, thus functioning as a dynamic counterweight and allowing the wood to shrink or expand.
The pagoda’s five stories, from top to bottom, represent sky, fire, earth, water, and wind, as well as the five Buddhas of wisdom. It is decorated with the 12 Chinese zodiac signs on the first story.