Located in the city of Kusatsu, Gunma Prefecture, White Mountain Princess Shrine (Shirojishinsha) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the White Mountains. The shrine's main building is a wooden structure with a tiled roof, typical of traditional Japanese architecture. The area surrounding the shrine is known for its natural hot springs and scenic hiking trails.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tsuki-yomi
- Kami enshrined
- Tsuki-yomi
- Coordinates
- 36.1326766, 139.482615
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's scenic beauty, consider visiting at sunrise or sunset when the surrounding mountains take on a warm golden light.
Cultural notes
White Mountain Princess Shrine is associated with the mythology of the White Mountains, said to be inhabited by various kami. The shrine also hosts an annual spring festival, known as Shinshin no Saisen, which celebrates the return of the princess and features traditional dances and music.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 1634 during the Edo period, likely to commemorate a visit by Tokugawa Iemitsu, the fifth shogun of Japan.