Located in the heart of Kyoto City, Oike Street is known as a business district lined with buildings and hotels.
Along this street, you’ll find the Gosho Hachimangu Shrine (御所八幡宮), a beloved local shrine with a history that dates back to the Muromachi period.
Despite its small size, the shrine’s torii gate and main hall exhibit a robust structure that exudes a sense of history.
The lanterns along Oike Street are photogenic, often capturing the interest of foreign tourists.
History and Origins of Gosho Hachimangu Shrine
The name “Gosho (imperial palace 御所) Hachimangu” originates from the first Shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate, Ashikaga Takauji (足利尊氏), who enshrined the deity as the guardian god of his residence.
It is also known as Toji Hachiman and Takakura Hachiman, named after the current location.
Initially located at the Gosho hachiman Town, it was moved to its current location in 1945 due to forced evacuation during World War II.
During Takauji’s era, the shrine boasted a grand structure known as the “Yatsumune-zukuri,” but the premises were significantly reduced during the war evacuation.
The shrine’s stone lanterns and guardian dogs are remnants from that time.
The precincts also feature a commemorative monument celebrating the marriage of the Crown Prince, now the Emperor Emeritus and Empress Emerita.
Deities of Gosho Hachimangu Shrine
Gosho Hachimangu enshrines three deities: Emperor Ojin (応神天皇), Empress Jingu (神功皇后), and Hime-Gami (比売神). These deities are deeply intertwined with Japan’s mythology and history, attracting many followers.
The shrine also houses several smaller shrines.
Including Konpira Shrine, Omiyamesha Shrine, and Sarutahiko Shrine, with adjacent shrines dedicated to Inari and Sugawara no Michizane, featuring ancient sacred cows.
Gosho Hachimangu Shrine: Protector of Childbirth and Children
Gosho Hachimangu is famous as a protector of childbirth and children, alongside the Miyake Hachimangu (三宅八幡) in Sakyo Ward’s Kamitakano.
Known as “Mushi Hachiman,” (虫八幡) the shrine is believed to help with childhood ailments and tantrums, earning the trust of parents who pray for their children’s health.
The annual summer purification ceremony (夏越の大祓神事) at the end of June and the Shinko Festival around September 15 feature Mikoshi (portable shrines) parading through Oike Street and surrounding neighborhoods.
Photogenic Lantern at Gosho Hachimangu Shrine
The shrine can be visited even at night, and the lined lanterns are a sight to behold.
The shrine are also illuminated with lanterns, creating a very magical atmosphere.
The lanterns, donated by local businesses and shops along Oike Street.
Access and Location: Oike Hachimangu Shrine
The nearest station to Oike Hachimangu Shrine is Karasuma Oike Station on the Kyoto City Subway’s Karasuma and Tozai lines, just a three-minute walk away. For bus travelers, the Karasuma Oike bus stop served by Kyoto City Bus and Kyoto Bus is convenient.
The shrine is open for free visits at any time, and the illuminated lanterns at night provide a magical experience. The area around Karasuma Oike is also home to many hotels, making it a popular spot for foreign tourists.
Information on Oike Hachimangu Shrine
| Name | Gosho Hachimangu Shrine |
|---|---|
| Address | Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Kikkoya-cho 596, Japan |
| Deities | Emperor Ojin, Empress Jingu, Hime-Gami |
| Benefits | Childbirth and Safe Delivery |
| Admission Fee | Free (Open to the public) |
| Access | 3-minute walk from Karasuma Oike Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway 3-minute walk from Karasuma Oike Bus Stop served by Kyoto City Bus and Kyoto Bus |
Gosho Hachimangu Shrine is supported by its history, tradition, and deep-rooted local faith.
When you come to Kyoto, please visit Gosho Hachimangu Shrine. Despite its small size, it offers a serene space where you can feel the rich history and experience its charm.
Japanese Article : 京都 御所八幡宮の歴史と由来
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