The Eight-Horned Shrine, located in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of prosperity, good fortune, and harvests. With its name derived from the eight horns of the deer, the shrine's primary deity is believed to be Hachiman, the kami of war and justice, as well as other local deities such as Inari Okami, the god of fertility and agriculture. The shrine's architecture reflects a mix of Heian and Kamakura styles, with a distinctive torii gate and a wooden structure that has been preserved since the 17th century.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Inari Okami, Fukuyoshi no kami
- Coordinates
- 38.0439066, 140.1442623
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visit the shrine early in the morning or later in the evening when possible.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its 'Hachiman Odori' festival, held annually on December 31st to January 1st, which features traditional dances and rituals honoring the god of war. Visitors can also observe the shrine's unique 'Eight-Horned Shrine Monument', a large stone statue of a deer with eight horns.
Historical note
Founded in 711 by Emperor Sushun during the Nara period.