Shirahige Shrine

Lake Biwa's floating torii in Shiga Prefecture

Cathy Cawood Mar 07, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>Torii are supposed to be doors from this world to the spiritual world</p>

<p>Approaching the shrine on the lake-side road</p>

<p>An ornamental rope hangs from the torii in the shrine grounds</p>

<p>Stone lions stand guard in the shrine</p>

<p>The bell to get the spirit of the shrine's attention</p>

<p>Stone lanterns glow with yellow light</p>

<p>Waves ruffle the surface of the lake</p>

<p>Twisted cypress trees frame the torii</p>

<p>Beautiful cloud over the lake as sunset approaches</p>

Many people are familiar with the big red torii standing in the sea on Miyajima, but Lake Biwa also has a "floating" torii. It is located on the western side of Lake Biwa, at Shirahige Shrine near Takashima. Although it is much smaller than its Miyajima counterpart, it creates a beautiful view set against the constantly changing moods of the lake. The shrine is considered to be a good place to pray for longevity, matchmaking, having a baby, better luck and prosperous business. Perhaps the name is a reference to longevity, because shirahige means "white beard".

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Cathy Cawood @cathy.cawood

I came to Japan in 2003 to teach English. I lived in Shiga prefecture for 1 year, and it still holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Kyoto for 9 years, then moved to Machida, Tokyo in 2014 after meeting my Japanese partner. I love to take photos, and my Japan in Pictures Facebook page ha...