A–Z directory

八幡宮

Japanese Name八幡宮
PrefectureIbaraki
ReligionShinto
Primary DeityHachiman
Coordinates36.3198149, 139.7464210

⛩ AI-enriched content

About this Shrine

Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, Eight Halls Shrine is a revered Shinto site that honors the god of war and wisdom, Hachiman. The shrine's history dates back to the Nara period (710-794 CE), when it was originally built as a tomb for Emperor Nintoku. Over time, the shrine has undergone numerous renovations, with the current structure dating back to the Edo period (1603-1867 CE). Eight Halls Shrine is renowned for its striking architecture, featuring a unique octagonal hall with eight pillars, symbolizing the eight virtues of Buddhism and Shintoism. The shrine's grounds are also home to several smaller shrines and temples, including the Kofuku Temple, which boasts a stunning golden lantern.

Cultural Significance

As one of Japan's oldest shrines, Eight Halls Shrine is deeply connected to Shinto mythology. According to legend, Hachiman was summoned by Emperor Kinmei in 593 CE to defeat the powerful Baekje kingdom. The shrine also hosts an annual festival in May to honor the god of war and wisdom.

Enshrined Deities

Hachiman

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

Visitors can purify themselves at the temizuya, a sacred water fountain located near the main hall, before paying their respects to Hachiman.

History

Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE),

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.