Located in the city of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Eight Saints Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the eight saints, or tennin, of Buddhism who are believed to have helped Emperor Shōmu defeat the Chinese army in 663 CE. The shrine's unique architecture features a distinctive five-story pagoda and a large octagonal hall called the haiden, which houses the primary shrine and its guardian deity, Fushimi Inari.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Fushimi Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Fushimi Inari, Minamoto no Yoritsune
- Coordinates
- 34.7466515, 136.1244494
Visitor tip
Be sure to visit the shrine's garden during cherry blossom season for a stunning display of sakura.
Cultural notes
This shrine is famous for its association with the legend of Minamoto no Yoritsune, who prayed here before his death and was believed to have been granted eternal life. The shrine also hosts an annual O-Edo Festival in October, which celebrates the city's history and culture.
Historical note
Founded in 718 CE during the Nara period