Located in Yamatocho, Kanagawa, Okura Taikoro Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Hachiman Okami, a kami associated with war and the samurai class. The shrine is known for its wooden torii gate, which has been rebuilt several times due to damage from natural disasters. The site dates back to the 8th century.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.3104019, 139.5371637
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's main hall, which houses the deity's image, during the annual Hachiman Matsuri festival, typically held in mid-November. The festivities include parades, traditional music performances, and food stalls offering local specialties.
Cultural notes
The shrine is said to be connected to the mythology of the Minamoto clan, who were patrons of Hachiman Okami. As such, it is an important site for those interested in Japanese warrior culture and history. The shrine's wooden torii gate has been rebuilt several times due to damage from natural disasters, a testament to its resilience.
Historical note
The shrine was originally established in 737 AD during the Nara period as a temporary shrine for Hachiman Okami. It gained prominence after the Genpei War (1180-1185) and has since become one of the most important Hachiman shrines in Japan.