Located in the town of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, White Tiger Temple is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of the Ryujin, or 'Dragon God'. The shrine's name 'Kuromon no Mikage' roughly translates to 'Shadow of the Black Cat', but it has long been known by its current name. With origins dating back to 711 AD, White Tiger Temple is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines and a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 34.9998927, 135.7719228
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, be sure to purchase an o-mamori charm at the shrine's shop before leaving, as it is said to bring good luck on all journeys.
Cultural notes
White Tiger Temple has a unique architectural style that reflects its long history. The main hall was rebuilt during the Heian period and features a distinctive gabled roof covered in tiles, while the torii gate dates back to the Kamakura period. The shrine is also famous for its annual summer festival, which takes place on July 17th and includes traditional music and dance performances.
Historical note
White Tiger Temple was built during the Nara period in 711 AD.