Located in the town of Hachioji, Yamanashi Prefecture, Eight Kings Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the eight deities of good fortune, particularly the god of prosperity and wealth, known as Nanakamadono. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Nanakamadono
- Kami enshrined
- Nanakamadono, Kawatarazuka-no-kami
- Coordinates
- 35.5034569, 138.7679092
Visitor tip
To enhance your visit, arrive at dawn to witness the shrine's sunrise ceremony, where participants dress up as the Eight Kings and perform a traditional dance.
Cultural notes
Eight Kings Shrine is famous for its unique architecture, which includes a large vermillion gate known as 'tobatsu' and a five-story pagoda dedicated to Nanakamadono. The shrine is also known for its beautiful garden with over 500 cherry blossom trees, making it a popular spot during spring.
Historical note
Founded in 718 CE during the Nara period, it was originally called Koshimizu no Sato but later renamed Hachioji Shrine.