Located in the city of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Eight Horses Temple Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto. Dedicated to the protection and prosperity of fishermen, sailors, and travelers, the shrine is famous for its hundreds of vermilion arches that span across the Shimonoseki Strait Bridge. The shrine's history dates back to 1591, during the Sengoku period, when it was a minor temple. In 1879, the shrine was rebuilt in its current form after a devastating fire and has since become one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 36.1524179, 136.2926622
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visit the shrine during the week or early morning, when locals often come to pray and make offerings.
Cultural notes
In Japanese mythology, Susanoo-no-Mikoto is believed to have been the god of storms and fertility. At Eight Horses Temple Shrine, visitors can enjoy traditional performances, such as kabuki theater and taiko drumming, during the annual New Year's festival in January.
Historical note
The shrine was reconstructed in 1879 after a major fire destroyed it.