Located in the city of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, Eight Horses Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, known as Hachiman in Japan. The shrine is famous for its unique architecture and beautiful gardens. It is believed that the shrine was built during the Nara period (710-794 CE), but the current structure dates back to the Edo period (1603-1867 CE). Eight Horses Shrine is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over Japan with its rich history, cultural significance, and stunning natural surroundings.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 36.4149792, 136.531738
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the golden light of sunrise or sunset highlights its wooden structures and gardens.
Cultural notes
Eight Horses Shrine is closely associated with the legend of Susanoo-no-Mikoto, who was said to have fought against the evil god Yatagarasu. The shrine's design reflects this mythological connection, featuring a large torii gate and a beautiful garden filled with cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period, Eight Horses Shrine has been rebuilt and expanded several times throughout Japanese history.