The Eightfold God Shrine, located in Tokushima Prefecture, is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, dating back to the Heian period (794-1185). Dedicated to the worship of the Eight-Fold God, also known as Hachiman, this shrine is a significant cultural and historical landmark in the region. The shrine complex features traditional Japanese architecture with a distinctive thatched roof and a series of shrines dedicated to various deities.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Oshisimetsuki no Kami
- Coordinates
- 34.0877963, 134.5239881
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine, arrive early to witness the morning bell-ringing ceremony, which marks the beginning of a new day in Tokushima's Shinto calendar.
Cultural notes
As a major pilgrimage site for Hachiman worshippers, the Eightfold God Shrine is known for its association with the legend of the Great General Minamoto no Yoritomo. Visitors can explore the shrine's many temples and shrines, including the Kotohira-gu Shrine, which houses a sacred mirror believed to have been used in the construction of the famous Horyu-ji Temple.
Historical note
Established during the Heian period.