Located in the scenic town of Aioi, Hyogo Prefecture, Eight Gates Shrine is dedicated to the deity of good fortune and longevity, believed to be particularly revered by those seeking success in business or marriage. The shrine's name, 'Hachiman,' refers to the Shinto god Hachiman Okami, patron of merchants and traders.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman Okami, Futatsu no Kami
- Coordinates
- 35.645927, 134.5637706
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's good fortune energy, visit at dawn or dusk when the morning sun rises behind the torii gate or sets over the eight gates of the shrine grounds.
Cultural notes
Eight Gates Shrine is associated with the legend of the Eight Immortals of the Buddhist tradition and is said to be a popular destination for those seeking business prosperity, particularly during the annual 'Fukutoshi' festival in May. The shrine's architecture reflects the typical style of Shinto shrines from the Heian period (794-1185 CE), with its distinctive pagoda and vermilion torii gate.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), Eight Gates Shrine has undergone several renovations and expansions throughout its history, including a major rebuilding in the Edo period (1603-1867 CE).