Located in the town of Nikkō, Tochigi Prefecture,八幡神社 is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines and a major stop on the famous Nikkō Tōshō-gu pilgrimage route. The shrine is dedicated to the deity Amaterasu Ōmikami, the sun goddess, and her grandson Susanowo, the storm god. Visitors can explore the shrine's impressive main hall, surrounded by a beautiful garden and numerous torii gates. Eight large vermilion torii gates adorn the approach to the shrine, said to represent the eight virtues of the Buddha.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanowo
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu Ōmikami, Susanowo
- Coordinates
- 36.2112847, 139.4369279
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's full beauty, consider visiting at sunrise or sunset when the vermilion torii gates are most striking.
Cultural notes
This shrine is closely tied to the mythology of the thunder god Susanowo, who was said to have brought storms and lightning. During the annual festival in August, visitors can witness a traditional ritual called 'Taue no Matsuri', which reenacts the story of Susanowo's birth.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt in its current form during the Edo period (1603-1867).