At a glance
Standing majestically in Lake Kitaura, Kashima Shrine's West Torii is Japan's largest water torii gate, measuring 18.5 meters high and 22.5 meters wide. This historic gateway, accessible 24/7, offers stunning sunset views and serves as a spiritual entrance to the sacred Kashima region.
Photographs
Kashima Shrine West Torii
Set against the tranquil backdrop of Lake Kitaura, the Kashima Shrine West Torii is a powerful blend of spiritual symbolism and striking engineering. Towering at 18.5 meters tall and spanning 22.5 meters wide, this vermillion gateway holds the title of Japan’s largest torii built over water. The current structure, completed in 2013, is crafted from weather-resistant steel, but its spirit lies firmly rooted in centuries of pilgrimage and ritual.
This torii once marked the maritime approach to Kashima Jingū [鹿島神宮], one of Japan’s oldest and most revered Shinto shrines. In the Edo period, worshippers would arrive by boat across Lake Kitaura and pass under this gate on their journey inland. Its importance was such that it earned a place in Hiroshige’s famous ukiyo-e print series Famous Places of the Sixty-odd Provinces, highlighting its cultural and historical value.
Today, the torii rises dramatically from the water, changing character with the weather and time of day. Sunrises cast it in silhouette, while sunset bathes it in golden light that shimmers on the lake. Even on foggy days, the scene feels otherworldly. The site is relatively quiet and undeveloped, giving visitors space to reflect or simply take in the view without distraction.
If you’re here in early to mid-October, timing your visit with the fireworks will give you a dramatic and unforgettable experience, imagine the fiery blooms lighting up the night sky behind the torii, all mirrored on the still surface of the lake. Just be prepared for crowds, transport restrictions, and the site possibly being closed to parking or access during the event.
There are no facilities at the site, and while there’s no official parking, you’ll often find cars pulled up along the roadside. Locals ask that visitors be respectful—don’t linger too long, avoid blocking traffic, and leave no trash behind. For photography, early mornings offer calm water and dramatic lighting, and a tripod is fine to use here, as long as you’re not obstructing the road or pathway.
Before you go
There are no restrooms or cafés directly at the torii, and parking is limited to roadside spots, please stay respectful of residents and avoid long stays. Tripods are allowed for photography but ensure you’re not impeding traffic. In October, the annual Kashima City Fireworks (around October 12 at 19:00) light up the sky behind the torii and reflect on the lake, expect crowds and temporary road closures.
The West Torii is open year-round with no gates or restricted hours. You can visit freely at any time of day or night. During special events like the Kashima City Fireworks Festival in October, access may be temporarily limited due to road closures or crowd control measures.
When to go
The torii gate is particularly stunning during sunset when golden light illuminates the vermillion structure against the water. Spring and autumn offer the most photogenic conditions, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures perfect for photography. Early mornings before 8 AM provide serene moments for contemplation and photography without crowds. Weekdays see significantly fewer visitors than weekends, making them ideal for a peaceful visit.
Average crowd levels throughout the day, based on historical data.
Public review summary
Visitors consistently praise the torii gates majestic presence over the water, particularly during sunset hours when lighting creates mystical photo opportunities. Limited parking and distance from the main shrine are noted concerns. The serene, uncrowded atmosphere receives positive mentions, though some find the isolated location and lack of amenities challenging. Photography enthusiasts appreciate the unique angles and reflections on the water surface throughout different times of day.
What you'll find here
Location & access
- DirectionsAddress
Japan, 〒314-0036 Ibaraki, Kashima, Ofunatsu, 2251 沖
- How to get there
By Public Transportation: Take the JR Kashima Line to Kashima‑Jingu Station, about a 5‑minute walk to the torii gate opposite direction from the Kashima Jingu Shrine. The torii sits just off a narrow lakeside road, watch for cars.
By Car: Drive via the Higashi‑Kantō Expressway to either Itako IC or Ushiori IC, then follow local roads for approximately 10-15 minutes to Kashima Shrine and a further 5 mins to the torii gate. You’ll find informal roadside parking near the torii. Please avoid blocking driveways or narrow passages when parking.
Common questions
Is the Kashima Shrine West Torii accessible by car?
Yes, the torii gate is accessible by car with free street parking available along the embankment. However, the road is narrow and in a residential area, so visitors are advised to be mindful of neighbors and parking consideration.
What makes this torii gate special?
The Kashima Shrine West Torii is one of Japan's largest water torii gates, standing 18.5 meters high from the riverbed and 22.5 meters wide. Completed in 2013, it's built with weather-resistant steel and stands gracefully over Lake Kitaura.
When is the best time to photograph the torii?
The torii gate offers stunning photo opportunities during sunset, when the vermillion structure creates a striking silhouette against the evening sky. Many photographers also praise the mystical atmosphere during foggy mornings.
What is the historical significance of this torii?
The site has been an important economic and cultural point for water transport since ancient times, serving as the gateway to Kashima Shrine. During the Edo period, it was featured in Utagawa Hiroshige's Famous Places of the Sixty-odd Provinces.
Is there direct access to Kashima Shrine from the torii?
While this torii is one of four directional gates of Kashima Shrine, it's located quite far from the main shrine buildings. It takes approximately 20 minutes on foot from Kashima-jingu Station to reach this western torii gate.
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