Katsushika Hachiman Shrine: The Guardian Shrine of Shimousa Province Where White Snakes Reside
⛩️ Shrine Introduction
The shrine was established during the Kanpei era (889–898 AD). It was founded under the imperial order of Emperor Uda, enshrining the deity from Iwashimizu Hachiman Shrine in Kyoto as the guardian shrine of Shimousa Province. The shrine has a rich history of reverence from notable figures such as Taira no Masakado, who made offerings, Minamoto no Yoritomo, who reconstructed it, Ota Dokan, who repaired it, and Tokugawa Ieyasu, who donated land to the shrine.
🗺️ Highlights of the Grounds
- The "Thousand-Year Ginkgo" tree to the right of the main shrine is a must-see.
- The grounds feature many smaller shrines, including Itsukushima Shrine, which exudes a serene atmosphere, and Asama Shrine, where visitors can climb the Fujizuka mound.
- The first torii gate is located right in front of a railway line, offering a unique view of passing trains.
💗 Visitor Impressions
Katsushika Hachiman Shrine is said to be home to a "white snake" that has lived in the Thousand-Year Ginkgo tree since ancient times. You can also find snake statues 🐍 at Itsukushima Shrine! The shrine's original goshuincho (stamp book) features white snake designs, and the "White Snake Omikuji" fortune slips are highly recommended. The ceramic omikuji even feature the shrine's symbolic ginkgo design.
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📌 Katsushika Hachiman Shrine
🗾 4-2-1 Yawata, Ichikawa City, Chiba Prefecture
🚉 About a 10-minute walk from Motoyawata Station
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