Located in the city of Hadano, Shizuoka Prefecture, Eight-Horned Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most iconic Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the god Amaterasu Okami, the shrine's unique feature is its eight large vermilion gates, which represent the eight virtues of the Buddha and are believed to ward off evil spirits.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Okami
- Coordinates
- 34.7560079, 137.983259
Visitor tip
To avoid congestion, visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the evening to take advantage of the serene atmosphere.
Cultural notes
At Eight-Horned Shrine, visitors can participate in a traditional purification ritual called 'misogi' using a ladle and a large tank of water. This ritual is believed to cleanse the body and spirit.
Historical note
The shrine was established in 757 AD during the Nara period and is one of the oldest shrines in Japan.