The Shinto religion, unique to the Japanese people, gave rise to several art forms, and among them several styles of architecture.

The structure photographed here, a square roofed pavilion opened on three sides and prolonged by a corridor, is called kaguraden ("dance hall") or maidono. Ths is the scene where the miko shrine maidens are performing kagura, ritual dances offered to the kami ("gods").

Kagura-den, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto

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Yesterday’s Japan Photo: Inuyama Castle