Located in the city of Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, Eight-Horned Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto, one of the primary deities of Japanese mythology. The shrine's architecture reflects its Heian period origins, with a five-story pagoda and a grand torii gate. As the name suggests, the shrine enshrines eight different kami, including Susanoo, Amaterasu, and Fujin.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Amaterasu, Fujin, Tsukuyomi, Ame-no-Murakumo, Takehisa-no-kami, Kazehaya-no-kami, Matsushima-no-kami
- Coordinates
- 35.4509631, 135.8731538
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's tranquility, visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds. Be sure to clean your hands at one of the many purification stations before approaching the torii gate.
Cultural notes
The shrine is closely tied to the legend of Susanoo, who was said to have created a storm that destroyed the world. To appease this god, locals often perform rituals and offerings to promote fertility and prosperity in their fields.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 733 by Prince Shōtoku, a powerful nobleman who played a key role in promoting Buddhism in Japan.