Located in the coastal town of Kashima, Eight Horses Temple Shrine (Hachimantai) is a Shinto temple famous for its massive bronze statue of Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of the imperial family. While not directly connected to the Ibaraki prefecture's八幡神社, both shrines share the name 'Hachiman' with the god of war, indicating the connection between them.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Kusunokami Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 35.770182, 139.8549297
Visitor tip
For a more immersive experience, visit the shrine's adjacent Hachimantai Park, which features hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding coastline.
Cultural notes
The temple is famous for its 'hajikazura-gasa' (harp-brushwood) roof tiles, used in traditional Japanese architecture. The shrine also hosts an annual Hachiman Festival in May, honoring the god of war with martial arts performances and traditional dances.
Historical note
The current shrine was founded in 1868, during the Meiji period, after the original shrine on the site was destroyed.