The Eighteen Stairs Shrine, located in the Chiba prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of luck and prosperity. The shrine's name 'Hachi-ban-gu' literally translates to 'eighteen steps,' which refers to the eighteen bamboo steps that lead up to the main hall. This unique architectural feature is believed to bring good fortune to those who climb the stairs, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking blessings.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Shin'ei
- Coordinates
- 35.6596025, 140.4817727
Visitor tip
To maximize your good fortune, climb the stairs at least seven times before making an offering or praying.
Cultural notes
The shrine is also associated with the myth of the 'Eighteen Stairs' in Japanese folklore, where a young woman who was forced to marry another man climbed the stairs as a form of protest, ultimately meeting her fate. Today, visitors can still see a stone monument near the stairs commemorating this tragic event.
Historical note
The shrine's origins date back to the 17th century, during the Edo period, when it was built by the local daimyo (feudal lord) as a family shrine.