Located in the scenic town of Karuizawa, Eight Horses Temple Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture and fertility, as well as the god of war, Hachiman, and the god of prosperity, Inari. The shrine's name, "Eight Horses," refers to the eight horses that were said to have appeared at the site in a dream, guiding the founder, who was a local samurai, to build the shrine. Today, visitors can enjoy the beautiful autumn foliage and the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine's gardens.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman, Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Inari
- Coordinates
- 36.165584, 137.8650708
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, try to come during cherry blossom season (March-April) or autumn leaf season (November-December), when the surrounding mountains are particularly beautiful.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its unique architecture, which combines traditional and modern elements. The main hall, dedicated to Inari, features a stunning wooden structure adorned with vibrant vermilion paint. Additionally, the shrine hosts an annual festival in May, where visitors can enjoy traditional games, food stalls, and performances.
Historical note
Established during the Edo period, specifically in 1666.