White Snakes of Iwakuni

7 of 9 in Iwakuni

White Snakes of Iwakuni are a rare and fascinating sight native to the region, known for their beauty and symbolic significance. These albino snakes, with ruby-like red eyes and a white shimmer along their bodies, are considered to bring good fortune. The Iwakuni White Snake Museum (岩国シロヘビの館), located near Kikko Park and the ropeway station, offers visitors the chance to observe these precious creatures up close. The white snake is also venerated at Shirohebi Shrine, where visitors can receive blessings for luck and prosperity.

These snakes are a rare variant of the Japanese rat snake, reaching up to 1.8 meters long and 15 centimeters in girth. Over the centuries, they have become a cherished natural treasure, protected and preserved as a household guardian deity in Iwakuni. Though once common, environmental changes have reduced their numbers, making it crucial to protect and breed them. Visitors can also purchase charms and goods featuring the white snake motif, adding a unique souvenir to their trip.

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White Snake Museum

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The White Snake Museum is located within Kikko Park, close to Kintaikyo Bridge. Buses from Iwakuni Station and Shin-Iwakuni Station reach Kintaikyo bus stop in 15 minutes. The fare is 300 yen from Iwakuni Station (buses every 10-20 minutes) and 350 yen from Shin-Iwakuni Station (1-2 buses per hour).