A Shinto shrine in Gifu Prefecture dedicated to deities associated with the legendary eight-headed, eight-tailed serpent Yamata-no-Orochi from Japanese mythology. The shrine name combines 'Gomejoshi' (five maidens) with 'Yatsurugisha' (eight swords shrine), referencing mythological elements from ancient Japanese folklore.
- Denomination
- Hachiman
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Yamata-no-Orochi and associated deities
- Kami enshrined
- Yamata-no-Orochi, Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 35.1429858, 136.882847
Visitor tip
The shrine offers a unique opportunity to experience worship connected to one of Japan's most famous mythological creatures.
Cultural notes
The shrine's name references both the five maidens and eight swords from Japanese mythology, particularly stories connected to the Yamata-no-Orochi legend where the serpent was defeated using multiple swords. This reflects the ancient Japanese practice of venerating both destructive and protective forces in nature.