Kitazawa Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the northern part of Setagaya Ward, Tokyo. The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of samurai. According to legend, Hachiman was said to have appeared at the shrine after being asked by Emperor Kinmei to investigate the problems of the Japanese army during his reign.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Yoshitsune
- Coordinates
- 35.6562201, 139.6697449
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, approach the torii gate during dawn or dusk when possible to admire the soft lighting on the shrine's architecture.
Cultural notes
Kitazawa Hachiman Shrine is one of few shrines in Tokyo dedicated to the worship of Hachiman. The shrine is also famous for its unique architectural style, which incorporates elements of the traditional Japanese temple (temple) and the Shinto shrine (mizumari).
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 1606 as a temple for the Shinto shrine of Kitazawa, but was later converted to its current form in 1653. During the Edo period, the shrine became an important center for the worship of Hachiman and the veneration of the war dead.