ABOUT
About this spot
Shirahige Shrine in Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture, is said to have been founded about 2,000 years ago and boasts the oldest history in Omi. Its main highlight is the vermilion-lacquered great torii gate standing quietly on the blue surface of Lake Biwa. Its dreamy beauty has earned it the name "Itsukushima of Omi," and it is enormously popular with visitors from Japan and abroad. The main hall on the grounds is designated an Important Cultural Property, and a solemn air lingers with the Hira mountain range behind it. The principal deity, Sarutahiko no Mikoto, is revered as a deity of longevity, traffic safety, and matchmaking, making this a power spot. The recommended time is sunrise or sunset, when the sun is near the horizon. The sky changes color moment by moment and the lake surface turns golden or crimson, a truly breathtaking sight. It is ideal for weekend drives, girls' trips, and solo trips to refresh. Since you need to cross the national highway to visit, it is good manners to enjoy the great torii safely from the "Aishima no Dai" observation deck on the grounds.
Last updated March 28, 2026