Shiratori Shrine

Shiratori Shrine in Ebino, Miyazaki Prefecture, stands partway along the mountain road leading to Ebino Kogen and is said to have been founded in the mid Heian period. Embraced by the nature of the Kirishima range, this quiet sacred ground is a hidden power spot quite different in character from the busy famous sites of Kirishima.

The enshrined deity is Yamato Takeru no Mikoto. A mystical founding legend tells how, as the monk Shoku read sutras in the mountains, an old man appeared and then flew away as a white swan. The shrine was deeply revered by the Shimazu lords and today draws many who pray for success in exams.

Highlights

- The main hall adorned with finely detailed carvings from the late Edo period, with designs distinctive to the region. - A quiet approach wrapped in the Kirishima forest, where a pleasant breeze flows among the trees. - Its location on the way to Ebino Kogen, easy to visit alongside a Kirishima tour.

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring brings fresh greenery, summer the crisp highland air, autumn the surrounding foliage, and winter a clear stillness, so each season shows a different face. Because the elevation is somewhat high, it stays relatively cool even in summer, making it an ideal stop on a drive.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Ebino, Miyazaki Prefecture - It sits along the road from central Ebino toward Ebino Kogen. - Being on a mountain road, access by car is convenient. - The elevation is high, so warm clothing in winter brings peace of mind.

A Quick Tip

If you have an exam or test ahead, do visit to pray for success. Stopping at this quiet forest shrine on the drive toward Ebino Kogen, with hands joined in prayer, is sure to steady your resolve.