Located in the Hikone city of Shiga Prefecture, Eight Gods Shrine is a historic Shinto site dedicated to eight deities believed to have been associated with the founding of the Taira clan. The shrine's architecture reflects its age, with a mix of traditional and modern elements. A unique feature of this shrine is its octagonal structure, which is said to represent the harmony between the gods and humanity.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Inazuma-no-Kami, Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto, Amaterasu, Uke-mochi-no-Oyashiro-kamui, Taka-mori no Kami, Kokuryu, Hane-takatsuhime
- Coordinates
- 35.0281678, 135.7973114
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's museum to learn about the history of the Taira clan and their significance in Japanese history.
Cultural notes
Eight Gods Shrine is connected to the mythology of the eight Taira clan deities, including Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Inazuma-no-Kami. The shrine also hosts a festival every September 21st to honor these deities and the founding of the Taira clan.
Historical note
Founded in the 8th century during the Nara period.