Shishinden

The Shishinden is the main hall with a distinguished history dating back to the Heian period, where important court ceremonies were held. It was built facing south in the southern area of the grounds and was also known as Naden (referring to the South Building). The building, with its cypress bark roof and natural, unpainted wood construction, features Shitomido outer doors and Karado doors on the exterior. The central area, called Moya, measures 9 ken (approximately 16.4 meters) in width and 3 ken (approximately 5.5 meters)in length, and is surrounded by Hisashi on all four sides. The interior showcases Keshoyaneura (refined rafters and beams) and Nugui-itajiki (refined polished wood flooring). All these features highlight the architectural styles of the Heian period.