TITLE: Torii Light

Shirahige Shrine (白髭神社), Lake Biwa, Japan.
Although there are many Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples around Lake Biwa, Shirahige Shrine (白髭神社) stands out as the one that brings out its beauty the best. This shrine has a 1,900 year old history, making it the oldest in Shiga Prefecture. Its most distinguishing feature is its torii gate. The large, vermillion-lacquered torii stand in the waters of the lake. Visitors pray at the shrine for longevity, matchmaking, fertility, better luck and prosperous business.

AUTHOR: Paul Byrne (Ireland)