The White Hare of Inaba: A Tale of Trickery and Redemption
When travelers visit the windswept coast of Tottori Prefecture in western Japan, they often encounter images of a cute, white rabbit. However, this is not just a regional mascot; it is the protagonist of one of Japan’s most significant and ancient legends: the Inaba no Shirousagi (White Hare of Inaba). This tale, found in the country’s oldest historical chronicles, blends elements of trickery, suffering, compassion, and romance, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the San’in region.
Origins of the Myth
The story of the White Hare of Inaba is recorded in the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters), which dates back to 712 AD. As Japan’s oldest extant chronicle, the Kojiki compiles myths concerning the origin of the four home islands and the Kami (spirits).
Scholars and historians find this specific legend fascinating due to a linguistic mystery. The text refers to the sea creatures involved as wanizame. In modern Japanese, wani means crocodile and zame (same) means shark. Given that crocodiles are not native to Japan, most interpretations depict these creatures as sharks. However, some theories suggest that ancient sea routes connected Japan to Southeast Asia, where crocodiles were known, leading to the mythological conflation of the two beasts.
The Legend of the White Hare
The story begins on the Oki Islands, where a white hare wished to cross the sea to reach the mainland of Inaba (modern-day Tottori). Lacking a boat, the clever hare devised a plan. He challenged the wanizame (sharks/crocodiles) to a contest to see whose clan was larger. He instructed the sharks to line up back-to-back across the ocean so he could count them.
The hare hopped across the backs of the sharks, counting aloud as he went. Just as he was about to jump onto the safety of the shore, he foolishly gloated, revealing that he had tricked them merely to use them as a bridge. Enraged, the last shark snapped at the hare, ripping off his fur and leaving him skinless and in agony on the beach.
The Cruel Brothers and the Kind Brother
While the hare lay weeping, a group of eighty deities (brothers) passed by. They were on their way to woo the beautiful Princess Yakami of Inaba. Seeing the suffering hare, the cruel brothers played a nasty trick. They told the hare to wash in the salty sea and dry himself in the wind. This, of course, only caused the salt to sting and the skin to crack, increasing the animal’s pain.
Finally, the youngest brother, Okuninushi no Mikoto, who was carrying all the heavy luggage for his older brothers, arrived. Seeing the hare in distress, he asked what happened. Upon hearing the story, Okuninushi instructed the hare to wash in the fresh water of the river and roll in the pollen of cattails.
The hare followed these instructions, and his fur grew back, white and fluffy. In gratitude, the hare made a prophecy: “Your cruel brothers will never win the heart of Princess Yakami. Although you carry the burden now, it is you she will choose.”
True to the hare’s word, the Princess rejected the eighty brothers and chose the kind-hearted Okuninushi, making the White Hare of Inaba Japan’s first matchmaker.
Modern Culture and Significance
Today, the White Hare of Inaba is a celebrated symbol of Tottori. Because of the legend’s conclusion, the hare is revered as a spirit of en-musubi (marriage tie-making) and romantic destiny.
Hakuto Shrine
Located along the breathtaking Hakuto Coast, the Hakuto Shrine (Hakuto Jinja) is dedicated to the spirit of the white hare. It is a popular destination for couples and singles alike, who come to pray for good relationships and marriage. The shrine grounds are dotted with stone statues of rabbits in various poses. A unique custom here involves buying “myth stones” (white stones with the character for ‘affinity’ written on them) and attempting to toss them onto the top of the shrine’s torii gate. If the stone stays up, your wish for love will supposedly come true.
Furthermore, in 2010, the Hakuto Coast was designated as a “Lover’s Sanctuary,” cementing the region’s status as a romantic getaway.
Traveler’s Tips
If you are planning a trip to the San’in region to pay homage to this ancient myth, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
- Getting There: Hakuto Shrine is easily accessible by bus from JR Tottori Station. The ride takes about 40 minutes. Look for the bus bound for “Shikano” and get off at the “Hakuto Jinja-mae” stop.
- Scenic Views: Just across from the shrine is the Hakuto Coast. It is said to be the very spot where the hare arrived. The rock formations in the water supposedly resemble the line of sharks from the legend.
- Souvenirs: Tottori is famous for Inaba no Shirousagi manju—steamed cakes shaped like white rabbits filled with yolk paste. They make excellent gifts.
- Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a trip to the famous Tottori Sand Dunes, which are only a short bus ride or drive away.
Sources & Further Reading
- Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters): Translated by Basil Hall Chamberlain. This text provides the primary source for the myth of the White Hare.
- Nihon Shoki (The Chronicles of Japan): Another essential classical history text that provides context on the reign of the gods.
- Tottori Prefectural Government Tourism Guide: For official travel logistics and shrine information.