Located in the coastal town of Shizugatake, Miyagi Prefecture, White Water Rice Shrine is a small but picturesque Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of rice and water. The shrine's beautiful gardens, complete with white-petaled peonies and cherry blossoms, are said to be inspired by the beauty of Mount Zao's famous 'snow wall'. Visitors can walk through the serene gardens, paying respects at the shrine's main hall, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tsukuyomi
- Kami enshrined
- Tsukuyomi, Kagami, Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 38.282007, 140.8745261
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's tranquility, consider visiting at dawn or dusk when the peonies are in bloom.
Cultural notes
White Water Rice Shrine is associated with the mythology of rice and water, which are essential elements for Japanese agriculture. The shrine's gardens are also said to be a reflection of the 'harmonious balance' (wa) that is central to Shinto philosophy.
Historical note
The shrine was originally founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), but its current structures date back to the Edo period (1603-1868 CE).