Located in the town of Tadokoro, Kagawa Prefecture, Shōhei-hettsu Hachiman-gū (Shōhei-hettsu Eight-Horsemanship Hachiman Shrine) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Hachiman, patron deity of warriors. The shrine's architecture and design reflect traditional Japanese temple styles, with a simple yet elegant main hall and beautiful gardens. The site dates back to the 10th century, making it one of the oldest shrines in Kagawa Prefecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Shiroi-Ryōgoku-Ō-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 34.2365047, 133.6165285
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts a golden glow on the gardens and main hall.
Cultural notes
Hachiman is revered as the god of war and is often invoked for protection and good fortune in battle. The shrine's Eight-Horsemanship Hachiman ritual, performed during the Obon festival, commemorates the god's legendary eight horses that galloped across the land, bringing prosperity and peace.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt in 1958 after being severely damaged by an earthquake.