Shiratori Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Gifu Prefecture dedicated to the legendary prince Yamato Takeru no Mikoto. The shrine is named after the white bird (shiratori) that according to legend carried the spirit of Yamato Takeru after his death. The shrine serves as a place of worship for this heroic figure from Japanese mythology who is revered for his military prowess and dedication to the imperial court.
- Denomination
- Hachiman
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Yamato Takeru no Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Yamato Takeru no Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 35.0836499, 137.4647128
Visitor tip
Look for symbols and artwork depicting the white bird, which is central to the shrine's founding legend.
Cultural notes
Yamato Takeru is one of Japan's most celebrated legendary heroes, known for his conquests in the eastern provinces and his tragic death far from home. The white bird transformation story represents themes of spiritual transcendence and the connection between the mortal and divine realms in Shinto belief.
Historical note
The shrine's origins are connected to the legend of Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, the legendary prince who died during his eastern campaign in the late 1st or early 2nd century. According to the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, after his death, his spirit transformed into a white bird that flew away, leading to the establishment of shrines bearing the Shiratori name at various locations associated with this legend.