Located in the Setagaya ward of Tokyo, Sakurahara Hachiman-ji is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman Ōkami, a kami associated with war, medicine, and protection. The shrine's architecture reflects its origins as a shrine for samurai warriors, with a traditional Japanese-style gate and a large torii gate. In the Edo period, the shrine became renowned for its healing springs, which are believed to possess medicinal properties. Visitors can still bathe in these natural hot springs today.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 35.6136335, 139.5786587
Visitor tip
To experience the full benefits of Sakurahara Hachiman-ji's hot springs, visitors should bathe before 10 am or after 4 pm when the water is said to be most medicinal.
Cultural notes
As a shrine associated with war and protection, Hachiman Ōkami is often invoked for safety and good fortune. The shrine also plays host to the annual Hachiman Matsuri festival in May, which features traditional music, dance, and offerings to the kami.
Historical note
The shrine was originally established during the Kamakura period (1185-1333), but its current buildings date back to the Edo period (1603-1867).