Shirataki Home

Shirataki-san refers not just to a single waterfall or location, but to the entire mountain area stretching out from this region toward Ise Grand Shrine. The mountain itself is considered sacred—a goshintai, or physical embodiment of a divine spirit.

Until the Meiji era, Buddhism and Shinto coexisted in Japan, and so too did various forms of mountain worship. In those times, when religious beliefs in Japan were more inclusive and fluid, Shirataki-san served as a place for spiritual training, a sanctuary for prayer and reflection, a point of connection with the divine—and above all, an object of deep reverence.

Over the years, the local people began affectionately referring to this mountain as “Shirataki-san”, a name expressing both respect and intimacy toward the mountain that guides and protects them.

At the heart of Shirataki-san lies the waterfall that gave the mountain its name. Even today, its waters cascade with a constant spray, filling the air with cool, purified moisture. Surrounded by the pure sounds of nature and the refreshing energy of negative ions, visitors often find themselves naturally moved to offer a quiet, respectful thought:

“May I enter this sacred place?”

That spontaneous feeling of reverence is the very essence of the faith that locals have held for Shirataki-san since ancient times. For generations, the Japanese have cherished nature, mountains, and the divine spirits that dwell within them.

Though Shirataki-san has no shrine buildings, no offering halls, and no specific sacred object, visitors often report sensing something—and quietly open their hearts to the divine before leaving with a lighter spirit.

Ritual for Spiritual Cleansing

(Joka no Osaho)

At Shirataki-san, you are welcome to perform simple purification rituals—whether for yourself or for objects such as power stones or healing items.

● For items safe to immerse in water, such as power stones or silver jewelry, you may dip them in the waters of Shirataki-san for 10 seconds to one minute.
Please use the stream near the entrance, as approaching the upper stream can be dangerous. The effect is the same in either location.

● For items that cannot be placed in water, simply find a spot within Shirataki-san that feels appropriate to you. Place the item gently on the ground. When you feel that the object has been purified, the ritual is complete.