A Serene Retreat at Shirahige Shrine
Discover the beauty and tranquility of Shirahige Shrine, a captivating Shinto shrine by Lake Biwa, rich in culture and breathtaking views.
Nestled along the shores of Lake Biwa, Shirahige Shrine is an enchanting Shinto shrine known for its stunning torii gate that rises majestically from the water. This sacred space offers visitors a tranquil escape, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Takashima, Shiga.
A brief summary to Shirahige Shrine
- 215 Ukawa, Takashima, Ukawa, Shiga, 520-1122, JP
- +81740-36-1555
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the torii gate reflected in the water.
- Take a leisurely walk along the lakeside paths for a peaceful experience.
- Check the local festival calendar to experience traditional events at the shrine.
Getting There
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Train
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Biwako Line towards Nagahama. Get off at the Takashima Station. The journey takes about 45 minutes. Once you arrive at Takashima Station, exit the station and walk towards the bus stop outside the station. Take the Shiga Kotsu Bus (Line 25) towards Ukawa. After about 15 minutes, get off at the Shirahige Jinja bus stop. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk to Shirahige Shrine.
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Bus
From Kyoto Station, you can also take a direct bus to Takashima. Look for the bus terminal near the station and find the bus service that goes to Takashima. The ride will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you arrive in Takashima, ask the driver to drop you off at the Shirahige Jinja stop, which is very close to the shrine. A short walk will lead you directly to Shirahige Shrine.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous and want to explore the area, you can rent a bicycle in Kyoto. Head north to the Kamo River and follow it until you reach the Biwako Canal. From there, cycle along the canal heading towards Takashima. It's about a 20 km ride, so make sure you're prepared for a longer journey. Once you reach Takashima, follow local signs to Shirahige Shrine, which is located near the water.
Discover more about Shirahige Shrine
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