Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Hakuto Shrine is a shrine located in the Hakuto district of Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture, and is known as a shrine associated with the Japanese myth of the White Rabbit of Inaba. The legend of the white rabbit that appears in the Kojiki - a story of how the great god Okuninushi-no-Mikoto saved an injured rabbit - has been passed down in this area, and many worshippers come to worship the white rabbit in prayer for matchmaking, fertility, and the fulfillment of good relationships.
Within the grounds, you'll find votive plaques and charms related to the White Rabbit, as well as shrine buildings and statues decorated with rabbit motifs, allowing you to enjoy the seaside scenery and mythology all at once. Due to its great location, it's also a popular photo spot.
Highlights
- A monument and explanatory board about the legend of the White Rabbit of Inaba: Learn the outline of the myth.
- Rabbit motifs in the temple grounds: There are plenty of items with white rabbits on offer, such as votive plaques, fortune slips, and amulets. Many worshippers come here hoping for blessings in marriage and fertility.
- View of the shrine grounds near the sea: The view of the Sea of Japan (Hakuto Coast) from the shrine grounds is photogenic. The combination of the red torii gate, rocks and sea makes a great photo spot.
- White rabbit statues and objects: You can take commemorative photos with the rabbit statues and objects on the approach to the shrine and in the temple grounds.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest major station: JR Sanin Main Line, Tottori Station (Tottori city center).
- Bus: Take a local bus from Tottori Station bound for Hakuto (the route name and timetable may vary depending on the season). The nearest bus stop is "Hakuto Jinja-mae" or similar. Please note that there are limited buses running, so please check the timetable in advance.
- By car: It's generally about 20-30 minutes by car from Tottori Station (depending on road conditions). Parking is often available within the temple grounds or nearby, but be aware that the number of spaces is limited during peak seasons.
- Taxi: It is convenient to take a taxi from Tottori Station (approximately 20 minutes).
*Please check official and local information in advance for bus route names, times, and parking availability.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Visit only: 15 to 30 minutes
- Visit + taking photos/purchasing gifts: 30-60 minutes
- If you include coastal walks and surrounding areas: 60-120 minutes
Nearby spots
- Shirato Beach: A beach located close to the shrine. Enjoy the sea breeze and rocky scenery.
- Tottori Sand Dunes: Tottori's most famous tourist spot. Approximately 20-30 minutes by car from Hakuto Shrine (depending on traffic conditions).
- Sand Museum: Outdoor and indoor exhibitions themed around sand (seasonal exhibits available).
- You can also visit tourist attractions in Tottori City, such as the Tottori Castle Ruins (Hisamatsu Park) and the Prefectural Museum.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The number of visitors increases on weekends, holidays, Golden Week, and during the summer. If you want to take your time taking photos, the best time to go is on a weekday morning.
- Worship etiquette: Please observe standard shrine worship etiquette, such as bowing once in front of the torii gate, purifying yourself at the temizuya (this may not be possible depending on the situation), and bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once more at the worship hall.
- Caution on the coast and rocky areas: Wet rocks and the tides can make the ground slippery and dangerous. Please check the tide conditions and avoid entering the area unnecessarily.
- Offerings and Shrine Office: The shrine office opening hours may be limited. If you would like to purchase a charm or goshuin, please check the opening hours in advance.
- Clothing and what to bring: The sea breeze can be strong, so it's a good idea to bring something to wear over your clothes. Take measures to protect yourself from the sun in summer and the cold in winter.
- Photography: Photography within the temple grounds is generally permitted, but please be considerate when taking photographs during religious ceremonies or when taking photographs that may interfere with worship.
(Additional Information) Before visiting, it is a good idea to check the latest information (transportation, opening hours, parking situation, event schedules, etc.) on the official website or tourist information center.
