Shirane Shrine [Gunma]

【Overview of Shirane Shrine】

While the exact date of Shirane Shrine’s founding remains unknown, it is believed to have already existed before the Heian period (9th century). It was recorded as “Shirane Myojin” in the Kozuke-no-Kuni Shinmeicho (the official registry of shrines in the region at the time), indicating that it has long served as a central base for mountain worship (sangaku shinko) dedicated to Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane as a divine body.

Although the precise reason for its creation is also unconfirmed, a legend states that Prince Yamato Takeru visited this area during his eastern expedition, was deeply moved by the breathtaking beauty of Mt. Shirane, and enshrined a deity here. The shrine was originally located near the summit of Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane. However, because the area was locked in deep snow during the winter, making pilgrimages extremely difficult, it was relocated to its current site in 1873 (Meiji 6) in response to the heartfelt wishes of the townspeople.

The shrine enshrines Yamato Takeru no Mikoto (Prince Yamato Takeru) as its primary deity.

Originally, “Shirane Myojin” was a local mountain deity (yamagami) that personified Mt. Kusatsu-Shirane itself. However, there was a historical background where the shrine’s status was elevated by designating Yamato Takeru—a legendary heroic figure—as the official enshrined deity, rather than keeping it as an abstract mountain spirit. This shift is believed to be the result of a cultural trend known as “divine identification” (shinkaku no doitsushi), which took place between the Heian and Kamakura periods.

【The Shrine Approach (Sando)】

Located just a short walk from the Yubataka (the hot spring fields), a straight, majestic stone staircase stretches upward.

The path from the approach to the main precinct is famous as a prime viewing spot for Azuma-shakunage (rhododendrons). From early to mid-May, pale pink blossoms vividly color the entire approach.

【The Chozuya (Purification Fountain)】

As you reach the top of the stone steps, the Chozuya comes into view.

The fountain was beautifully decorated with an array of colorful flowers, creating a stunning Hanachozu (floral purification fountain).

Beyond the Chozuya, the torii gate and the main shrine buildings await.

【The Main Shrine Building (Shaden)】

The main shrine building was constructed in 1873 (Meiji 6), coinciding with the relocation of the shrine to its current premises.

【Subsidiary Shrine: Numa Shrine】

Numa Shrine is located at the back right-hand side when facing the main building of Shirane Shrine.

Enshrined Deity: Toyotamahime no Mikoto

This deity was originally enshrined at “Kofudanuma Pond” located in the “Yoshigadaira” wetlands of Mt. Shirane. Since ancient times, she has been deeply revered as a water goddess who governs hot springs and drinking water.

【Subsidiary Shrine: Suwa Shrine】

This shrine is located on the left-hand side when facing the main building of Shirane Shrine (slightly to the left after climbing the stairs of the approach).

This is a branch shrine of the famous Suwa Taisha (Kamisha) in Nagano Prefecture. While there are two Suwa shrines within Kusatsu Town, one of them is nestled right here within the precincts of Shirane Shrine.

Enshrined Deities: Takeminakata no Mikoto and Yasakatome no Mikoto

【Shirane Shrine Nearby Tourist Spots】

Kusatsu Onsen Yubatake, Sai-no-Kawara Park, Kusatsuzan Kosen-ji Temple

Kusatsu Onsen [Gunma]

Kusatsu Anamori Inari Shrine & Sai-no-Kawara Park [Gunma]

Soshinzan Kosen-ji Temple [Gunma]

【Shirane Shrine Access】

Admin’s Impressions

The bustling energy of the Yubatake felt like a distant memory; the moment I finished climbing the stone steps, a profound silence and a solemn, majestic atmosphere filled the air. Hearing that Prince Yamato Takeru is enshrined here made me feel as though I had touched the absolute origin of Kusatsu.

As for the Goshuin (sacred stamps), you can receive not only the one for Shirane Shrine, but also those for its subsidiary shrines, Numa Shrine and Suwa Shrine. The stamp for the Kusatsu Anamori Inari Shrine can also be obtained here. It became a truly wonderful memento of my trip.

Scale

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Accessibility

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History / Origins

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Nature / Scenery

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Quietness

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Goshuin Variety

 (3.5)

Address of Shirane Shrine

538 Kusatsu, Kusatsu-machi, Agatsuma-gun, Gunma Prefecture 377-1711

*No parking available on site.

Approx. 25 minutes by bus from JR Naganohara-Kusatsuguchi Station, or about an 8-minute walk from the Kusatsu Onsen Bus Terminal.

Official Website of Shirane Shrine

参考

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草津温泉：白根神社

関連投稿(Related Posts):

Kusatsu Onsen [Gunma] Kusatsu Anamori Inari Shrine & Sai-no-Kawara Park [Gunma] Soshinzan Kosen-ji Temple [Gunma] Myogi Shrine [Gunma]