Located in the city of Hakone, Shizuoka Prefecture, Eight Branch Shrine is a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Fujin, the wind god, and Raijin, the lightning god. The shrine's name refers to the eight branches that are said to support the heavenly tree from which the winds and rains descend.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Raijin
- Kami enshrined
- Fujin, Raijin
- Coordinates
- 34.7259965, 138.0753278
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's peaceful atmosphere, visit at dawn or dusk when the sunlight filters through the trees and illuminates the torii gate.
Cultural notes
Fujin and Raijin are two of the most important kami in Japanese mythology, often depicted as a pair. The shrine celebrates their bond with annual festivals, including the Hakone Fujin Raijin Festival, which takes place on July 11th and 12th.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), Eight Branch Shrine has a long history of worship as a protector of travelers and a bringer of good weather.