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八幡宮

Okayama

The eight-horned bridge (yatanagi) is said to have been a gift from the sun goddess Amaterasu, who gave it to the wind god Fūjin to help him reach his wife, the earth goddess Inazuma's daughter. Eight horns were placed at the ends of the bridge. When Fūjin returned to his home in the heavens, he left the bridge and the eight horns on earth. This story is associated with the kami Fūjin.

Religion
shinto
Enshrined kami
Fūjin
Kami enshrined
Fūjin, Inazuma
Coordinates
34.6722759, 134.109419

Visitor tip

Visitors can walk along the original bridge, which was reconstructed in 1993, and admire its beautiful wooden beams. The shrine's tranquil gardens also offer great photo opportunities.

Cultural notes

The shrine's name is derived from the eight horns of the bridge, which are said to represent the virtues of Fūjin, such as wisdom, courage, strength, and loyalty.

Historical note

Founded during the Heian period (794-1185), Eight Horses Bridge Shrine has been a popular Shinto shrine for centuries.

More shrines in Okayama