Located in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is a significant Shinto site that honors the legend of a warrior-saint who protected his lord and people from invaders. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical ties to the Kamakura period and is renowned for its vibrant vermilion torii gate, which serves as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kusunoki-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Kusunoki-no-Mikoto, Toshigumo no Kami
- Coordinates
- 36.4481947, 139.3123605
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk to capture the warm hues of the vermilion gates, and take a moment to purify your hands at the designated handwashing basin.
Cultural notes
This shrine is associated with the legend of Kusunoki Masahito, a brave warrior who fought for his lord during the Muromachi period. Visitors can experience the shrine's cultural significance by participating in the annual Autumn Leaves Festival and offering prayers to Kusunoki-sama for protection and good fortune.
Historical note
Founded in 1592 during the Sengoku period.