Located in the city of Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture, White Mountain Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of Mount Zao, also known as Mt. Zao-san. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style with a tiled roof and wooden lattice walls. It is believed that the shrine was built in 1651 during the Edo period.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- Yamato-no-Kami, Tenjin, Mikoto-no-Kami
- Coordinates
- 37.9734721, 140.6104465
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's observation deck, which offers stunning views of Mount Zao and the surrounding area. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds.
Cultural notes
White Mountain Shrine is associated with the kami of fertility and prosperity, and is often visited during the spring season when cherry blossoms are in bloom. The shrine's architecture incorporates traditional elements such as the use of shōgen (tree trunks) and torii gates.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt in 1973 after being heavily damaged by the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami.