The Eight-Horsed Shrine, or Hata no Mochi in Japanese, is a Shinto shrine located in Himeji, Hyogo Prefecture. Dedicated to the kami of fertility and prosperity, this shrine features an impressive wooden torii gate covered in prayer cards, representing the eight virtues of Bushido: rectitude, courage, benevolence, respect, honesty, loyalty, self-discipline, and honor. The shrine is a popular destination for pilgrims seeking good fortune and blessings.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Mikoto, of, the, Eight, Horsed
- Coordinates
- 35.4964374, 134.8507181
Visitor tip
Visitors should remove their shoes before entering the shrine grounds, a sign of respect, and take note of the designated prayer card areas for the torii gate to avoid congestion.
Cultural notes
As an important Shinto shrine in Japan, the Hata no Mochi is deeply connected to regional mythology. The Eight-Horsed Shrine is said to be the birthplace of the local god, who grants fertility and prosperity to its devotees. During the Setsubun festival in February, locals celebrate by throwing soybeans to ward off evil spirits.
Historical note
The current main hall was built in 1915, during the Meiji period.