Located in Tokushima Prefecture, Kinzan Hachiman-jinja Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Hachiman, a patron deity of war and education. The shrine was originally constructed during the Heian period (794-1185 CE) as an honorarium for Emperor Murakami's victory over the Taira clan. Today, it serves as a symbol of the city's history and culture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 34.0763815, 134.5830462
Visitor tip
Visitors can experience traditional Japanese tea ceremonies held at the shrine, which offers insight into the daily life of a Shinto priest.
Cultural notes
Kinzan Hachiman-jinja Shrine is famous for its unique architectural style known as 'karahafuri' or 'ironwork tile roof,' which consists of iron tiles arranged in a distinctive pattern. The shrine also hosts an annual Star Festival (Tanabata) celebration, where visitors write prayers on tanzaku papers and hang them on the trees surrounding the shrine.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt in its current form during the Edo period (1603-1867 CE).