Facades
Ise Shrine
If we think of the rectangular space occupied by the shrine structures as the "square," the fences surrounding it would constitute its "facades. " They form a three-layered boundary, consisting of three simple wooden fences, nested one inside the other (the "Outer Jewel Fence", the "Inner Jewel Fence" and the "Fence of Excellence"). The fences mark the transition into holy space, defining a series of spatial zones of increasing sacred significance, from outer to inner. The spaces between fences are not meant to be occupied, nor does the repetition of fences itself have any functional purpose. They succeed in isolating the shrines from the outside world and in concealing all but their rooftops to the public. Only priests are permitted to pass through to the inner sanctum. The fences are pierced at their north and south ends by entrances such as the one at right above.
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