Located in the Akita Prefecture, 磐石別神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Hachiman Shrine deity, known as Hata Tsutae no Kami. This shrine is believed to have been established during the Nara period (710-794 CE) and is said to be one of the oldest shrines in Akita Prefecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 39.8091429, 140.0873841
Visitor tip
Visitors can purify their bodies and minds by washing their hands and mouth in the sacred stone basin before entering the shrine's main hall.
Cultural notes
The shrine's architecture is characterized by its unique wooden torii gate, which dates back to the Kamakura period. The shrine also hosts a biennial 'Tango no Sai' festival, where locals perform traditional dances and sing songs in honor of Hachiman.
Historical note
The shrine was built at the site where the god Hachiman is said to have appeared to a local farmer, who was seeking his help to defeat invading Korean armies.