There is a large vermilion-lacquered torii gate in the lake. The main shrine and the hall of worship, both designated national important cultural properties, are located on the other side of Route 161. Known as Omi's answer to Itsukushima, this is the oldest grand shrine in Omi.
Shirahige-jinja Shrine, founded more than 2,000 years ago, has been widely revered since ancient times as the home of Shirahige, the god of longevity, who provides guidance and divine blessings in all areas of life including matchmaking, childbirth, good fortune, driving out evil, business prosperity and traffic safety.
The deity of the shrine is Sarutahiko-no-mikoto. With Okishima Island on the horizon in the background, you can see the scenery of fishing boats passing by and the beautiful sunrise through the torii gate in the lake.