Located in Aomori Prefecture, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto god Susanoo-no-Mikoto and his wife Tamamo-no-Mae. The shrine's unique name refers to the eight curved horseshoes that are believed to protect the surrounding community from illness and disease. As a major Shinto pilgrimage site in northern Japan, Eight Horseshoe Shrine is renowned for its stunning natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Tamamo-no-Mae
- Coordinates
- 40.230177, 140.5081541
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's natural beauty, visitors can take a scenic hike through the surrounding forests and enjoy the stunning views of Aomori Bay.
Cultural notes
Eight Horseshoe Shrine is famous for its annual Hikime Mizuhara Festival, which honors Susanoo-no-Mikoto and features traditional dances, music, and offerings to the kami. The shrine's architecture is a blend of Heian and Kamakura styles, reflecting its long history as a major Shinto pilgrimage site.
Historical note
The shrine was first established during the Nara period (710-794 CE), with records of a temple dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto dating back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE).