Located in the city of Katsuragi, ability of Eight Spoke Gate, hensui gate, is particularly well known as a symbol of power and prosperity. Hachiman-jinja is dedicated to the Shinto god Hachiman, one of Japan's most important deities, often invoked for protection from disease, calamity, and bad luck.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 36.4497264, 136.5607294
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to catch a glimpse of the traditional ' Hatsumikai' purification ritual performed by the shrine's priest on the first day of the new year.
Cultural notes
Hachiman-jinja is celebrated with annual festivals at New Year and autumn, featuring traditional food stalls and folk performances. The ' Eight Spoke Gate', a distinctive feature of this shrine, is said to symbolize the eight virtues of Hachiman: benevolence, compassion, honesty, integrity, courage, loyalty, generosity, and respect.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 737 during the Nara period, making it one of the oldest shrines in Japan.