Shirahige Shrine: A Torii Standing in Lake Biwa
How to visit Shirahige Shrine on Lake Biwa: its torii in the water, the best time for photos, safety near the road and getting there from Kyoto.
Quick answer
- What it is: an ancient shrine on the west shore of Lake Biwa, in Shiga Prefecture.
- Famous for: a large vermilion torii gate standing in the lake.
- Known as: the Itsukushima of Omi, after the floating torii at Miyajima.
- Time needed: about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Best time: sunrise, when the sun comes up over the lake behind the gate.
- Map: Open Shirahige Shrine in Google Maps
Shirahige Shrine is said to be the oldest shrine on Lake Biwa. Its torii stands in the water just offshore, glowing red against the wide grey-blue lake.
Why Shirahige Shrine is a wonder
The shrine honours a god of long life, and its name means white beard. People come to pray for long and healthy lives.
The gate in the lake is the shrine's symbol. At sunrise, the sky behind it turns gold and pink over the water.
A dangerous road
The shrine and its torii are separated by Route 161, a busy road. Visitors have crossed it for photos, which is very dangerous.
Use the viewing area by the shrine and do not cross the road to reach the shore.
What to see
| Spot | What you see | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Lake torii | The gate standing in Lake Biwa | 15 minutes |
| Main hall | A hall rebuilt in 1603 | 10 minutes |
| Hillside shrines | Small shrines up the slope behind | 15 minutes |
| Poem stones | Stones carved with classical poems | 10 minutes |
| Lake Biwa shore | Wide views of Japan's largest lake | 20 minutes |
When to go
- Sunrise: the sun rises over the lake behind the gate.
- Calm days: reflections in the water.
- Autumn: clear air and soft light.
- Winter: quiet, with snow on the hills.
Our tip: Come early. Sunrise is the classic time for photos, and there are fewer cars on the road.
Getting there
- From Kyoto: about 40 minutes by JR Kosei Line to Omi-Takashima Station.
- From Omi-Takashima: about 40 minutes on foot along the lake, or a short taxi ride.
- By car: there is a small car park by the shrine.
Visiting safely
- Never cross Route 161 to reach the lake shore.
- Use the viewing area by the shrine for photos.
- Bow at the shrine and keep your voice low.
- Do not climb or enter the water near the torii.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Shirahige Shrine?
On the west shore of Lake Biwa, in Takashima, Shiga.
How do you get to Shirahige Shrine from Kyoto?
Take the JR Kosei Line to Omi-Takashima, then walk or take a taxi.
When is the best time to visit?
Sunrise.
Can you walk out to the torii?
No. Do not cross the busy road to reach the shore.
Biei
Rolling hills of wheat, potatoes and flowers in stripes of colour.
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