Located in the city of Akashi, Hyogo Prefecture, Eight Horses Temple Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the storm god Susanoo and Inari Okami. The shrine is famous for its eight vermilion torii gates that form a majestic tunnel leading up to the main hall. According to legend, when Susanoo was banished from heaven by his brother Amaterasu, he left behind his mighty bow, which became the iconic 'eight-horsed' symbol of the shrine. The shrine is also renowned for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo, Inari Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo, Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.1520228, 134.4457275
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds, and consider making an offering of rice cakes to Inari Okami for good luck.
Cultural notes
Eight Horses Temple Shrine is closely tied to the mythology of Susanoo and the legendary storm god's role in Japanese folklore. During the annual Tanabata festival, which takes place on July 7th, visitors can write wishes on tanzaku papers and tie them to the torii gates for a chance to see the mythical star-crossed lovers, Orihime and Hikoboshi.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt in 1945 after being damaged during World War II.