Located in Aomori Prefecture, White Snake Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami believed to have created the Iwaki-dake mountain, which forms part of the Shirakami-Sanchi National Park. The shrine's architecture and traditions reflect its historical ties to the region's indigenous Ainu people and its role in local folklore.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tsukuyomi no Kami
- Kami enshrined
- Akizuki, Tsukuyomi no Kami
- Coordinates
- 40.5517773, 140.4306855
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's scenic beauty, visit early in the morning or late in the evening when the mist from Lake Towada rises around Iwaki-dake, casting a mystical atmosphere over the grounds.
Cultural notes
White Snake Shrine is also connected to the regional mythology of the 'Akizuki' or white snake, which was believed to have magical powers and was often associated with fertility and prosperity. Locals still perform purification rites at the shrine during the annual Shinto New Year (Oshogatsu) festival.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built during the Kamakura period (1185-1333) as a memorial for the white snake that appeared on the mountain, said to have been a spirit of good fortune.