How to Build a Wooden Torii Gate

Torii gates lead to some of the most famous Japanese shrines.

Step 1

Measure down from one end of an 8-foot 4-by-4-inch post by eight inches. Mark this point and draw an upright rectangle 2 by 4 inches in size below it. Center the rectangle along the width of the post.

Step 2

Cut out the drawn rectangle with a jigsaw, going all the way through the post to make a hole. Measure, draw and cut out a rectangle with the other 8-foot post in the same manner.

Step 3

Lay the two prepared posts on the ground running parallel with the hole openings facing in (not up and down). Space the boards eight feet apart. Place the 2-by-4-inch board between the posts running perpendicularly.

Step 4

Slip the board ends through the holes in the posts and adjust the posts so the board extends beyond the posts by 10 inches on each side. Insert a screw through each post and into the board inside it once you’re satisfied with the overhang.

Step 5

Set the 9-foot post parallel to the 2-by-4 board against the top of the vertical post, making the 9-foot post and 8-foot board eight inches apart. Adjust the top post so it overhangs the vertical posts by 16 inches.

Step 6

Place a T-shaped bracket over the intersection of the posts at one top corner of the gate. Secure the bracket with screws. Place a second T-bracket along the other top corner. Flip the gate over and secure the remaining two T-brackets to the top corners along this side.

Step 7

Dig two holes six feet apart along the path where you want to place the gate. Make the holes 18 inches deep. Fill the holes with 4 to 6 inches of gravel. Stand the gate upright and set the ends of the 8-foot posts into the prepared holes. Pack the hole area around each post with soil to secure.