As I wrote before, the symbolic role of the
Shinto torii gates is to separate our world from the sacred world... In the case of the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Osaka, the same role was attributed to Taikobashi, the spectacular vermillion bridge in this photo. Located at the shrine's entrance, Taikobashi traverses a small river, which adds a special meaning it, because the running water symbolizes purification...
Spiritual meaning aside, Taikobashi is also one of the most impressive bridges in Japan. Here it is, photographed with water reflections... Simply beautiful!
Taikobashi, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, Osaka EXIF info:
Nikon D90
Lens: 18-70mm F/3.5-4.5G
Focal Length: 44mm
Aperture: F/5.6
Shutter Speed: 1/250s
ISO Sensitivity: ISO 320