Eight坂神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Kakegawa, Shizuoka Prefecture, dedicated to the kami of Mount Haku and the eight peaks of the Japanese Alps. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major stopover for travelers on the Nakasendo Road, an ancient trade route connecting Tokyo with Kyoto. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional buildings, including the main hall and the five-story pagoda, while also admiring the beautiful gardens and surrounding natural scenery.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Kami of war and messenger god
- Coordinates
- 35.0373082, 138.4771849
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visitors should arrive early to catch the sunrise over Mount Haku, which is said to be a particularly auspicious time for prayer and worship.
Cultural notes
This shrine is famous for its association with Mount Haku, a sacred site in Shinto mythology that is often depicted as a white mountain. The shrine's festivals, including the Haku Matsuri, celebrate the mountain's beauty and spiritual significance. Visitors can also experience traditional crafts and performances, such as woodblock printing and Noh theater.
Historical note
Founded in 1604 by Tokugawa Ieyasu during his military campaigns against the Takeda clan.