Located in Ishikawa Prefecture, Honjo Shrine is dedicated to the worship of Hachiman, the Shinto god of war and patron deity of the Imperial Family. As one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan, it is known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a museum showcasing the history of the shrine and a stunning garden.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 35.443103, 136.7205148
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the beauty of the shrine's gardens, be sure to visit at dawn or dusk when the sunlight filtering through the trees creates a truly breathtaking effect.
Cultural notes
Honjo Shrine is closely associated with the legend of the 'Shinsen no Mimi,' or 'The Hearing with One Ear,' which tells the story of Hachiman's discovery of his own ear as he lay sleeping. This mythological tale is still celebrated during the annual 'Shinsho Festival' in September, which honors the shrine's patron deity.
Historical note
Founded in 716 AD during the Nara period, Honjo Shrine has been an important cultural and historical landmark in Ishikawa Prefecture for over 1,300 years.