Considered the pinnacle of Japanese traditional architecture, The Shrine is constantly being rebuilt every 20 years, with its construction techniques passed on from previous generations. It is constructed out of unfinished cypress wood, and the plank walls out of thatched reeds or cypress bark. It has a linear construction style, gabled roof, and raised floors. The roof is supported by the exterior board walls, with independent exterior pillars supporting the ridge board. The rafter extensions located at the gable ends, and the horizontal log elements which protrude from the roof’s ridge, act as weights to keep the roof secure.