Hachiman-gu, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of war Hachiman, is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and located on the northern coast of Honshu island. The current shrine building dates back to the Edo period, but the site itself has been used for spiritual rituals since ancient times.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Tsukuyomi, Susa-no-ohi, Shikabine
- Coordinates
- 37.9923854, 140.6421003
Visitor tip
To experience the serene atmosphere of the shrine, visit at dawn or dusk when the sunlight filters through the torii gates.
Cultural notes
Hachiman-gu is closely tied to the legend of the 'Tenchū' – a giant, mythical serpent said to have been vanquished by Hachiman in order to bring peace to Japan. During the annual Tenjin Matsuri festival, shrine grounds are filled with thousands of lanterns to commemorate this mythological event.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt after it was destroyed by fire during World War II.