Located in the city of Odawara, Saitama Prefecture, 下山八幡神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Fujin, the god of wind and storms, and Benzaiten, the goddess of prosperity and beauty. The shrine's architecture is typical of Kamakura period (1185-1333) design, with a wooden torii gate and a main hall adorned with intricate carvings. Visitors can experience traditional Japanese culture by attending one of the many festivals held throughout the year, including the annual Odawara Festival in August.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Benzaiten, Fujin
- Kami enshrined
- Benzaiten, Fujin
- Coordinates
- 35.790489, 139.2182791
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, try some traditional Odawara sweets at the nearby stalls, such as senbei and manju.
Cultural notes
Fujin, the god of wind, is often depicted in Shinto mythology as a powerful storm deity. Benzaiten, on the other hand, is revered for her beauty and benevolence, making her a popular subject in Japanese art and literature.
Historical note
The shrine was built during the Muromachi period (1336-1573), and its current structure dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867).