Eight-Horned Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, located in the city of Kaiyō, Shiga Prefecture. The shrine's distinctive feature is its eight torii gates, believed to symbolize the eight horns of the deer that saved the sun goddess Amaterasu from evil spirits.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Susano-o
- Coordinates
- 35.2959277, 135.9300522
Visitor tip
When visiting Eight-Horned Shrine, try to arrive at sunrise or sunset to witness the warm golden light casting a beautiful glow on the shrine's gates and grounds.
Cultural notes
As an important Shinto shrine, Eight-Horned Shrine is often visited during the Cherry Blossom Viewing season (Hanami) in spring. Locals also participate in the festival of Hachiman Matsuri, held annually to honor the god of war and protector of the realm.
Historical note
Established during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), when it was a sacred site for the Imperial family.