Located in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Eight Saints Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, dedicated to the benevolent deity Fūjin Ryūjin, also known as Ōinacchi or Hikoboshi. As a nod to its name, Eight Saints Shrine features an impressive eight-storied gate that symbolizes the harmony between heaven and earth.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ōinacchi
- Kami enshrined
- Fūjin Ryūjin, Ōinacchi
- Coordinates
- 35.9270421, 139.5203712
Visitor tip
For visitors seeking a unique experience, try visiting during the annual Lantern Festival (, Hikoboshi Matsuri) in August, where thousands of lanterns line the shrine's grounds to honor the spirits of lovers separated by the Milky Way.
Cultural notes
As a significant Shinto shrine, Eight Saints Shrine is connected to the mythology of Fūjin Ryūjin, who is often depicted as the god of wind and storms. Locals also celebrate the Hikoboshi Matsuri festival, which is said to have originated from an ancient legend about a man who sacrificed himself to reunite with his beloved wife across the Milky Way.
Historical note
The shrine's origins date back to the Edo period (1603-1867), when it was established as a shrine for the local lord, Ōtomo no Yasumasa. Over time, Fūjin Ryūjin became the primary deity enshrined within its gates.