Located in the city of Omi, Hikone in Shiga Prefecture, Omihachiman Shrine is one of Japan's most famous shrines and a key site in the Shinto religion. It is dedicated to the god of wealth, prosperity, and good luck, making it an important destination for those seeking blessings and fortune.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 35.0264347, 135.7338386
Visitor tip
To make an offering to the god, visit the shrine at dawn or dusk when the main hall is most beautifully lit.
Cultural notes
Omihachiman Shrine is famous for its unique architectural style, which features a vermilion torii gate and a wooden pagoda with a bronze bell that strikes one hundred times in honor of the god. The shrine is also known for its rich mythology connection to the legend of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, a powerful samurai who sought the god's favor.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built as a villa during the Nara period (710-794 CE) and later converted into a Shinto shrine in the Heian period (794-1185 CE).