Located in the Hyogo prefecture, the Eight Pillars Shrine is a Shinto site dedicated to the worship of the deity of good fortune and prosperity, known as Hikoboshi. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a traditional Japanese-style main hall surrounded by cedar trees and lanterns. Visitors can walk through the forested grounds, which are said to be inhabited by the spirits of the dead.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hikoboshi
- Kami enshrined
- Hikoboshi
- Coordinates
- 35.6397184, 134.5065781
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, arrive early to witness the cherry blossom viewing festival in spring, which takes place around late March to early April.
Cultural notes
The Eight Pillars Shrine is said to be connected to the Japanese myth of Hikoboshi no Okami, who is often depicted as a man with eight pillar-like arms. According to legend, Hikoboshi was punished by the gods for his cruel treatment of his wife and was forced to spend half of each year on a bridge in the afterlife, separated from his wife.
Historical note
The Eight Pillars Shrine was built during the Edo period (1603-1867) as a shrine dedicated to the deity Hikoboshi, who is believed to guide the spirits of the dead to the afterlife.