⛩️ White Rabbit Shrine

The history of the Shiratama Shrine is long and is recorded in the "Nihon Shoki" and "Kojiki." The shrine is famous for the well-known mythological story of "Inaba no Shirataki," and due to the content of this myth, it is believed to provide protection for healing burns and skin diseases. The shrine is also known as the deity that facilitates the union between Okuninushi no Mikoto and Yachihoko, and in recent years, it has been recognized as a "Sacred Place for Lovers," being the origin of Japan's first love story. On the west side of the approach, there is a dense thicket that has grown naturally in a unique environment, which is designated as a national natural monument. Within and around the shrine grounds, there are many myth-related sites, such as the purification pond mentioned in the "Kojiki," where the white rabbit washed its wounds. The water level in this pond does not change regardless of the weather, hence it is called the "Unchanging Water Pond." The shrine office offers various items such as amulets and omikuji (fortune slips), as well as goshuin (shrine stamps). It is said that placing a "Bonding Stone," which contains five stones, on the torii gate or the white rabbit statue will help fulfill one's wishes. The amulets and omikuji are charmingly designed in the shape of a white rabbit, with a rich selection of items available.

Shrines related to the "Inaba White Rabbit" myth. Due to the content of the myth, they are considered to provide protection against burns and skin diseases. In recent years, they have gained high recognition as deities of matchmaking. Items such as the matchmaking stones and rabbit-shaped omikuji (fortune slips) are very popular.