Located in the heart of Tokyo's western suburbs, Eighteen-Step Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the god of harvest and prosperity, Inari Okami. The shrine's name 'Hachiman-ji' translates to 'Eighteen-Step Temple,' which refers to its iconic staircase with eighteen steps leading up to the main hall. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Eighteen-Step Shrine is a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.7793316, 139.6262427
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is not directly overhead.
Cultural notes
The shrine's architecture is characteristic of ancient Japanese design, featuring a vermilion torii gate and a traditional hippon (main hall) with a curved roof. Inari Okami, the primary deity enshrined here, is revered for his role in agriculture and fertility, as well as his association with fox spirits, known as kitsune.
Historical note
Founded in 718 CE during the Nara period, making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines still standing today.