Located in the city of Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is one of Japan's most famous Shinto shrines dedicated to the god of storms, winds, and fields. The shrine's name 'Hachi-Ba-Tsuka' or 'Eight Horseshoe' refers to its unique eight-horseshoe-shaped roof, symbolizing protection from misfortune and good fortune. The shrine is also known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 38.67258, 141.2168484
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the golden light illuminates the Eight Horseshoe Roof and the surrounding gardens.
Cultural notes
Eight Horseshoe Shrine is famous for its annual Wind Festival, held in late August, where devotees pray for good luck and protection from storms. The shrine's architecture reflects the region's history as an important center for rice production.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 744 CE during the Nara period as a Shinto temple dedicated to the storm god Susanoo-no-Mikoto.