Located in the city of Odawara, Kanagawa Prefecture, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines, dedicated to Amaterasu and Susanoo-no-Mikoto, two powerful kami believed to have a significant influence on the weather. The shrine's name 'Hachimantai' refers to its primary enshrined deity, Hachiman, a god often associated with war, wisdom, and protection. Eight Horseshoe Shrine is particularly famous for its unique eight-horseshoe-shaped archway called an 'hachiman-gate,' which is believed to have been constructed during the 17th century in a style reminiscent of traditional Japanese gateways.
- Denomination
- 神社本庁
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Amaterasu, Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 35.2620259, 139.1778769
Visitor tip
When visiting Eight Horseshoe Shrine, be sure to pass through the hachiman-gate and make a prayer at the torii gate while bowing deeply to show respect.
Cultural notes
This Shinto shrine is particularly famous for its unique connection with war. According to legend, Amaterasu was said to have descended from heaven to aid the warrior prince, Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto, in battle against a giant snake, and Hachiman was later deified as a god of war and protector of the Imperial Family. The shrine is also famous for its unique 'Hoshizuka' lanterns which are hung on the grounds at night during festivals.
Historical note
Built in the 15th century, during the Muromachi period, Eight Horseshoe Shrine was originally dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto but later came under the patronage of Amaterasu. In 1675, the shrine's current main hall was constructed.