Located in the city of Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, Ninna-ji Temple's subsidiary shrine is Eight Bridges Shrine, dedicated to the deity Hachiman, known as Yamato no Okami, the protector of Japan. The temple was originally built during the Nara period (710-794 CE), and it is said that the deity appeared in a dream to a local farmer, who then prayed for his village's protection. This shrine has been an important site for worship and rituals dedicated to Hachiman for centuries.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.2026286, 136.2313434
Visitor tip
Visitors can take a stroll along the 8 bridges that span the Gokayama River, which is said to be one of Hachiman's favorite sites.
Cultural notes
In Japanese mythology, Eight Bridges Shrine is associated with the legend of Hachiman, who was often depicted as a white horse riding through Japan. According to local tradition, the shrine is visited by locals on New Year's Day and during the spring equinox for ritual offerings and prayers.
Historical note
Built during the Nara period (710-794 CE) with major reconstruction in the Heian period (794-1185 CE).