Located in the town of Kusaka, Gunma Prefecture, Eight-Horsemen Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the worship of Amaterasu Omikami and the gods of war. Built in 1624, the shrine has undergone several renovations, with its current architecture dating back to the Edo period. The shrine's design features a unique blend of traditional Japanese elements, including wooden torii gates and a large main hall.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Omikami
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Hachiman, Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 36.277271, 139.1053219
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit during cherry blossom season (March-April) or autumn foliage (November-December), when the surrounding forest is ablaze with color.
Cultural notes
As an important Shinto site, Eight-Horsemen Shrine is closely tied to the mythology of the Japanese god Amaterasu, who is said to have descended from the heavens in a giant tortoise. The shrine's name reflects its association with the eight mythical horses of the sun goddess.
Historical note
Built in 1624 by local samurai lord Mimasaka Yoshitoyo.