Located in the mountains of Shiga Prefecture, White Mountain Shrine is a sacred site dedicated to the worship of the kami. The shrine's history dates back to the Edo period, with its origins attributed to a local legend about a white deer that appeared on Mount Haku. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, including the main hall and the shrine's famous 'haiden' (outer shrine), which is adorned with a beautiful torii gate. The shrine's grounds also feature a serene pond and walking trails offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Denomination
- shinto
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hotoke no Kami
- Kami enshrined
- Yata-no-Kagami, Kamaji, Taka-hime, Tsukiyomi, Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 34.7246663, 135.8932214
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's natural beauty, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and take a stroll along the walking trails before or after visiting the main hall.
Cultural notes
White Mountain Shrine is associated with the Yata no Kagami myth, which tells the story of two brothers who created Japan using sacred mirrors. The shrine's torii gate is said to be one of the oldest and most beautiful in the country, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt in the Meiji period after being damaged by fire.