A–Z directory

八坂神社

Japanese Name八坂神社
PrefectureAkita
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityMutsu no Okami
Coordinates39.1973878, 140.5614007

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the heart of Akita, Eight Gates Shrine (Hachisakaken-jinja) is a revered Shinto site that dates back to the Nara period (710-794 CE). The shrine is dedicated to the legend of Mutsu no Okami, the dragon god believed to reside within the nearby Lake Tenryu. Over time, eight gates were built to honor this benevolent deity, hence its name. Today, the shrine serves as a symbol of Akita's rich history and cultural heritage.

Cultural Significance

Eight Gates Shrine is famous for its unique architectural style, which blends traditional Shinto elements with influences from Chinese and Korean traditions. The shrine's eight gates are said to represent the eight virtues of Mutsu no Okami, while the surrounding forest is believed to be the dwelling place of other kami.

Enshrined Deities

Dragon god Believed to reside in Lake Tenryu Patron deity of the Akita region

Location

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Spot an error?

This shrine data is sourced from OpenStreetMap. You can submit a correction or edit it on OpenStreetMap.

Shrine data © OpenStreetMap contributors, under the Open Database License.

Quick Facts

  • Religion: Shinto

⛩ Visitor Tip

To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn when the mist from Lake Tenryu rises over the gates, creating an ethereal atmosphere.

History

Nara period

A-Z Creatures
Learn Japanese

Japanese Culture Network

Japanese Wood Joints

Ancient joinery techniques of Japanese master craftsmen

ShrinePuzzle

Directory of Japanese board games and traditional games

Kohibou

Japanese coffee culture — kissaten, third wave and brewing guides

E2Japan

Explore Japan's landmarks, shrines and hidden locations

The 725 Club

SNES and Super Famicom collection tracker

Spaceship Adventures

Hoshi no Isan — a Japanese-aesthetic space RPG in development

Japan In Pixels

A pixel art map of Japanese culture — coming 2027

CSSKitsune

Japanese-aesthetic design tokens & AI-ready UI prompts

Shinto Wisdom app icon
Free App · No Ads · Offline

Shinto Wisdom Daily Practice

by 10k Game Studio

Every day, one teaching. One moment of stillness.
Kanji, meaning, and a quiet reflection — rooted in the philosophy behind Japan's forests, seasons, and sacred silences.

結び Musubi 清め Harae 自然 Shizen 間 Ma 誠 Makoto + 45 more
Get it on Google Play

Content Warning: This website explores Japanese folklore and mythological beings—including yokai, oni, and other supernatural entities—that may be frightening to younger audiences or sensitive viewers. All material is presented for educational and cultural appreciation only. Viewer discretion is advised.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to preview content before sharing it with children. By continuing to use JapaneseMythicalCreatures.com, you acknowledge and accept this advisory.

Copyright © 2026 Japanese Mythical Creatures • All Rights Reserved.