Located in the city of Richi, Chiba Prefecture, the eight-spoked shrine (Hachimangū) is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines dedicated to the god Hachiman, a kami associated with war and justice. The shrine is built on the site where Hachiman was said to have rested while traveling from Ise to Yamato. Its main structure, a three-story pagoda (sangatō) and a two-story hall (honden), dates back to 1636, making it one of the oldest shrines in Chiba Prefecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 35.317469, 139.8359286
Visitor tip
For visitors wishing to pray for safe travel, tie a small paper token with your name and a prayer written on it to the shrine's famous eight-spoked torii gate.
Cultural notes
In addition to its connection with Hachiman, the shrine is also associated with the legend of the 'Eight Spokes' (yatai) - an eight-legged chariot said to be pulled by a divine power. This chariot is often depicted in shrine art and architecture.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt after an earthquake in 1698.