Located in the city of Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture, the Eight Horseshoe Shrine is a prominent Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of fortune and prosperity. Its unique architectural style, which features eight large horseshoe-shaped archways called 'hata,' is said to have been inspired by the shape of an octopus's tentacles, believed to be a symbol of good luck. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional Japanese architecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hatsu-Kami
- Kami enshrined
- Hatsu-Kami, Fukurokuju
- Coordinates
- 35.0484983, 137.7218683
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visit the shrine early in the morning or later in the evening to witness the sunset, when the archways are bathed in warm light.
Cultural notes
The Eight Horseshoe Shrine is closely tied to the Japanese festival of Tanabata, which celebrates the meeting of two star-crossed lovers. Visitors can make a wish and tie a red-colored paper lantern on one of the shrine's gates, hoping that their own wishes will be granted.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 1601 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate.