Shiratori Shrine is dedicated to the legendary prince Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, who according to mythology transformed into a white swan (shiratori) upon his death. The shrine serves as a place of reverence for this heroic figure from Japanese mythology, who is remembered for his military campaigns and tragic fate.
- Denomination
- Hachiman
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Yamato Takeru no Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Yamato Takeru no Mikoto
- Founding
- Ancient period
- Coordinates
- 34.9984861, 137.4192728
Visitor tip
Look for swan motifs and imagery throughout the shrine grounds, which commemorate the transformation legend of Yamato Takeru.
Cultural notes
The white swan symbolism represents the soul's transformation and journey to the afterlife in Japanese mythology. Yamato Takeru's story appears in both the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, making him one of Japan's most celebrated legendary figures.
Historical note
The shrine's origins are tied to the legend of Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, the legendary prince who died during his eastern campaigns and was said to have transformed into a white swan. Multiple Shiratori shrines exist throughout Japan, particularly along the routes associated with his legendary journeys, serving as memorial sites for this mythological hero.