Fudurariboshi no Mae Hikoboshi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Shirakawa, Nagano Prefecture. Dedicated to Hikoboshi, the god of the bridge between life and death, it is one of the few shrines in Japan that honors this kami, known for his role in guiding souls to the afterlife.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hikoboshi
- Kami enshrined
- Hikoboshi, Yakamo
- Coordinates
- 36.6619373, 138.1615383
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's garden at twilight for a spectacular view of the bridge, symbolizing the connection between life and death.
Cultural notes
The shrine is known for its unique architecture, featuring a bridge-like structure connecting the main hall to a smaller altar. Hikoboshi is often depicted as a horseman, riding across the sky with his sister Yakamo, guiding souls across the River Aki.
Historical note
The shrine was built during the Edo period (1603-1868) and its current structure dates back to the Meiji period (1868-1912).