Located in the town of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, Eighty-eight Steps Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility, Ryujin, as well as various other kami including Amaterasu and Susanoo. The shrine's name is derived from its unique architectural feature of eighty-eight stone steps leading up to the main hall. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include beautiful gardens and a museum showcasing local history and culture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ryujin, Amaterasu, Susanoo
- Kami enshrined
- Ryujin, Amaterasu, Susanoo
- Coordinates
- 36.3652556, 140.4124789
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the beauty of the shrine's gardens, visit during cherry blossom season (March-April) or autumn foliage season (November-December).
Cultural notes
In Japanese folklore, Ryujin is said to have created the mountains and rivers of Ibaraki Prefecture. The shrine also hosts an annual festival in honor of Ryujin, which features traditional music, dance, and food.
Historical note
The shrine was originally founded in 1844 as a humble shrine dedicated to Ryujin, but it has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years.