Mar 7, 2014 - 1 min read

Shirahige Shrine

Lake Biwa's floating torii in Shiga Prefecture

By Cathy Cawood

Community writer

Torii are supposed to be doors from this world to the spiritual world

Approaching the shrine on the lake-side road

An ornamental rope hangs from the torii in the shrine grounds

The bell to get the spirit of the shrine's attention

Beautiful cloud over the lake as sunset approaches

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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Find out more about Lake Biwa.

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By Cathy Cawood

Community writer

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Victoria Vlisides 9 years ago

Nice views! Cypress tress shot caught my eye!

Justin Velgus 9 years ago

Had no idea of this floating torii gate!

Cathy Cawood Photographer 10 years ago

I'm glad you liked these photos, Telloyd!

Anonymous 10 years ago

Nice evocation captions for a series of really nice pictures. The lit stone lanterns (frame 9) is a particularly nice shot and I can smell the salty air and musty shrine from here...!