Located in the picturesque town of Hikone, the Eighteen Hands Shrine is a revered Shinto shrine dedicated to the storm god Susanoo and his daughter Otohime. The shrine's name 'Hachimangū' (Eighteen Hands) refers to its unique architecture featuring two large stone statues of Susanoo, representing eight hands with eight fingers each, resembling an octopus. Visitors can also see the stunning Hikone Castle Park in the background, which shares a common history and legend.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo and Otohime
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo, Otohime
- Coordinates
- 35.2510258, 136.2592555
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's scenic beauty, visit at dawn or dusk to catch the golden light illuminating the statues and surrounding landscape.
Cultural notes
The shrine is closely associated with the legend of Susanoo's sister Otohime, who wept tears that formed Lake Biwa. Locals often make offerings to Otohime during the annual 'Matsuri' festival in September, which features traditional music, dance, and games.
Historical note
Established in 718 CE during the Nara period, when it was originally called 'Higashi-yama-jinja', and later renamed to Eighteen Hands Shrine in the Edo period.