Located in the heart of Akita Prefecture, Eight-Horned Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the storm god Susanoo-no-Mikoto and the goddess Amaterasu. The shrine's name reflects its primary deity's association with thunderstorms and fertility. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Eight-Horned Shrine has played a significant role in local history and culture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 38.934605, 139.8866112
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the autumn leaves are in full color.
Cultural notes
In Japanese folklore, Susanoo-no-Mikoto is often depicted as a mischievous but powerful deity who can control the weather. Eight-Horned Shrine is also famous for its beautiful vermilion torii gate and traditional Shinto architecture.
Historical note
The shrine was originally constructed during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), but its current structure dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867 CE).