Higashiyama Hakusan Jinja

Higashiyama Hakus-An Jinja is said to date back to the 8th century, giving it roots over 1,200 years old.

The shrine stores a portable Kaguratai shrine used exclusively for the festival held every May 5th. It's designated as a Municipal Folk Cultural Property of Japan.

The guardian dog statues flanking the shrine were donated by Hida's legendary carpenters, the same craftsmen whose skills built temples using timber that has withstood over 1,000 years of heavy snow.

Giant cedar trees, hundreds of years old, line the stone stairs leading up to the shrine. You'll pass through multiple torii gates before reaching the top, creating a natural cathedral effect.