Located in the heart of Hakone,八握神社 (Hakone Okugitsurei) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fire and lightning, known as Tametora. The shrine's unique eight-faced deity statue, called 'Hakone okagisha,' represents the power of the ocean and the volcano that formed this region. Visitors can experience the shrine's natural beauty during cherry blossom season or autumn foliage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tametora
- Kami enshrined
- Hakone okagisha, Ryujin
- Coordinates
- 34.9172607, 137.7448281
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's power, try visiting at dawn when the sun rises over Mount Fuji, casting a golden glow on the surrounding landscape.
Cultural notes
Hakone Okugitsurei is famous for its association with the legend of Ryujin, the dragon god, who was said to have taken refuge in this shrine during the Heian period. The shrine's unique eight-faced deity statue also reflects the region's volcanic and oceanic origins.
Historical note
The shrine was established in 1185 by Minamoto no Yoshinaka, a prominent warrior of the Genpei War period.