Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

Map

History & Origins

The shrine originated in 1063 (the 6th year of Kohei), when Minamoto no Yoriyoshi invited the deity of Iwashimizu Hachimangu in Kyoto to Yuigo in Kamakura. In 1180 (the 4th year of Jisho), Minamoto no Yoritomo moved it to its present location in Kobayashigo Kitayama and developed it as the spiritual center of the warrior government. It has continued to draw the devotion of the Kanto warrior bands ever since.

Highlights

Dankazura, the approach that runs from Wakamiya Oji, carries the lore of the Genji-Heike wars. Beyond the Great Stone Steps (61 steps) stands the main hall, an Important Cultural Property rebuilt in 1828 (the 11th year of Bunsei). The arched bridge over Genpei Pond and the Maiden (lower worship hall) are also worth seeing. The entire precinct is wrapped in a historic landscape.

Visitor Guide

It is about a 10-minute walk from the east exit of Kamakura Station on the JR Yokosuka Line and Shonan-Shinjuku Line. Walk north along Wakamiya Oji and the third torii gate comes into view. Allow about 1-2 hours. Amulets and goshuin (shrine seals) are available at the offering offices around the grounds.

Best Season

The cherry blossoms of March-April and the autumn foliage of November are beautiful, and the cherry trees along Dankazura are especially popular. The Kamakura Fireworks Festival in August and the Reitaisai festival with yabusame (mounted archery) in September are also worth seeing.

Blessings

Annual Events

• September

  Reitaisai (Grand Annual Festival)

  The largest festival of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. It is held on September 15, and a full-scale yabusame ritual takes place the following day, the 16th.

• January

  Saitansai (New Year's Day Festival)

  A festival celebrating the new year, held early on the morning of New Year's Day. The grounds are lively with many worshippers.

Travel Plan

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