Located in the Sapporo area of Hokkaido, Eight-Horned Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the worship of Susanoo, the storm god and son of Amaterasu, the shrine features a unique octagonal torii gate and a beautiful garden. The site has been occupied since the Jomon period, with archaeological evidence suggesting human habitation dating back over 10,000 years. In the Edo period, the shrine was rebuilt in its current location by the Tokugawa shogunate.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo, Kamaitachi
- Coordinates
- 44.4551302, 142.4127269
Visitor tip
To avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful visit, consider arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Cultural notes
As a Shinto shrine dedicated to Susanoo, Eight-Horned Shrine is particularly significant for its connections to Japan's mythological storm god. The shrine also plays host to an annual autumn festival, which features traditional dances and offerings to the kami.
Historical note
The shrine's current structure dates to 1865.