Traditional Oki Architecture

Traditional Oki Architecture is unique to the Oki Islands. Shrine buildings and traditional residences both feature unique building designs.

The traditional Oki-style shrine building appears to be a combination of styles of important shrines around Japan. The main entrance of the shrine is on the side, which is reminiscent of ‘Taisha-style’ (Izumo Taisha). The general shape of the building is short and squat lengthwise, and resembles the ‘Shinmei-style’ (Meiji Jingu Shrine). Finally, it features a pent-roof at the top of the stairs of the shrine, like the ‘Kasuga-style’ (Kasuga Shrine), although the pent-roof and the main roof are separate.

Traditional residences are characterized by three main entrances, which were used according to the rank and purpose of visitors. The arrangement of rooms has a key-shaped structure.