Located in the city of Katsuta, Saitama Prefecture, Eight Horses Temple Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of war and fertility, with a rich history dating back to 718 AD. The shrine is known for its beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and vibrant festivals celebrating the arrival of spring and autumn leaves.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 35.816444, 139.517129
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience the serene atmosphere.
Cultural notes
This shrine is associated with the legend of the Eight Horses, a group of mythical horses said to have been driven by the god Yamato no Orochi. During the New Year (Oshogatsu) festival, devotees tie red paper horses around the shrine's gates as an offering to the god.
Historical note
Founded in 718 AD during the Nara period.