Located in the heart of Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, Hachiman Shrine (Yatsugisha) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman Ōkami, the god of war and patron deity of the Imperial Court. The shrine's history dates back to 744 AD, during the Nara period, making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Fūjin, Raikō
- Coordinates
- 35.6904208, 139.3405276
Visitor tip
To avoid crowds, visit Hachiman Shrine early in the morning or late in the evening, when the sun is not too high or too low.
Cultural notes
Hachiman Shrine is famous for its Yatagahara Festival, which honors the god's role as a warrior and protector of the Imperial Court. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a traditional Japanese garden and a five-story pagoda. In addition to Hachiman Ōkami, the shrine also enshrines Shinto deities associated with fertility, prosperity, and good fortune.
Historical note
The original shrine was built at the foot of Mount Fuji and later relocated to its current site in Tokyo.