Shirahama Shrine
Shirahama Shrine
SHRINE
Shimoda is home to the oldest shrine in the Izu area. Built more than 2,400 years ago, Shirahama Shrine is believed to have the power to bless people with success in business, relationships and traffic safety. It is famous for the tori gate overlooking the beach nearby. There also seems to be a path up the mountain, however this is closed off towards closing time so make sure to get here early!
There is a car park available with the first hour free.
OPENING HOURS
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
9AM – 5PM
9AM – 5PM
9AM – 5PM
9AM – 5PM
9AM – 5PM
9AM – 5PM
9AM – 5PM
Note: The temple is closed every Tuesday and Wednesday, barring the three days following New Year or when they fall on a public holiday. It is also closed on Setsubun (the last day of winter), 30th July – 2rd August, 15th August and 24th – 31st December.
PRICES
Entry to the shrine itself is free, however there are numerous protection charms/fortunes that you can purchase at the store.
If you wish to pray to the gods then you should use a 5 yen coin as this as seen as the most lucky coin to pray with. Remember to throw your money into the offering box, bow twice, clap twice, make your wish and then bow once more.
Review
Shirahama Shrine is one of the most famous shrines in the whole peninsula. Rich with over 2,400 years of history and a gorgeous tori gate overlooking the ocean, it’s easy to see why. If you’re in the area then definitely take the time to look around and take that Instagrammable shot!
The shrine itself is pretty small with not much to do. The entrance is very picturesque so definitely head in via the front entrance. We arrived after closing so I wasn’t able to climb up the mountain stairs to give you a review of that. I’ll definitely head up next time!
Head out from the shrine either via the car park entrance or the front entrance and head to the tori gate. Make sure you bundle these together if you’re visiting!
ADDRESS
Shirahama Shrine,
2741-5 Shirahama,
Shimoda,
Shizuoka Prefecture,
415-0012
+81542619030 (Japanese only)
http://www.ikonahime.com/ (Japanese only)
RECOMMENDED ROUTE:
It’s easier to get to the beach by car however there is no free parking nearby. To use public transport then take the train from Atami Station and alight at Shimoda Station. Switch to the bus headed for Itadoichiki (板戸一色行) and alight at Shirahama Shrine Bus Stop.
Things nearby:
SHIRAHAMA SHRINE BEACH TORI GATE
SHIRAHAMA BEACH
CAPE OGASAKI
