Located in the city of Tokorozawa, Gunma Prefecture, Eight Horses Shrine is one of the most famous Shinto shrines in Japan, dedicated to the worship of the storm god Susanoo and his sister Hikoboshi. The shrine is renowned for its beautiful vermilion torii gates and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is said that if you tie a blue ribbon around your wrist at dawn on the second day after New Year's (Setsubun), Susanoo will protect you from evil spirits.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo, Hikoboshi
- Coordinates
- 35.9253586, 139.4804531
Visitor tip
To get to the best view of the torii gates, hike the short trail that leads up to the observation deck at sunset.
Cultural notes
Eight Horses Shrine is famous for its annual Setsubun festival, which takes place in early February and features the ritual of bean-throwing to ward off evil spirits. The shrine is also associated with the myth of Susanoo's love affair with a mortal woman, as well as the legend of his rivalry with the sun goddess Amaterasu.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 745 AD during the Nara period, and has been restored numerous times over the centuries.