Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine - Gifu

Located at 178 Sakura-machi in Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture, Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine is the oldest shrine in Takayama City. 

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine History

Legend has it that Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine dates back to the 4th century when it was founded by Emperor Nintoku. However, it was hard to verify this as the Japanese started recording history in the 7th century and Emperor Nintoku himself was a legendary figure similar to the main characters of epic poems. 

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine - Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture

This horse statue seems to be guarding the shrine's entrance

Follow the steps to the shrine or shaden

Before heading to the shrine, wash your hands first with water from the chōzubachi or purification font

Hall of Votive Tablet

Sakasa-kiri-no-tour-ou (Upside down paulownia stone lantern) is said to disarm the jealousy of evil powers

Walk up the 19 monolithic steps of the Oishidan (Big Stone Steps)

The vicinity map of Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine

In 1683, during the reign of Lord Kanamori, the shrine was rebuilt and improved. after which the shrine was officially established as the protector of the town. During his reign, Lord Kanamori encouraged traditional arts and crafts. Under his patronage, the town became famous for its lacquer-ware and woodwork. The people of Takayama were also regarded as fine craftsmen for their carpentry skills. These are very evident with the woodworks and design of the shrine and the yatai / floats that are used during the Sanno Matsuri and Hachiman Matsuri.

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine's Hall of Worship

A peek inside the Hall of Worship

Speaking of the Hachiman Matsuri, the grand procession actually begins and ends in Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine. There is also a marionette performance of the shrine grounds which is held every morning and afternoon during the said festival. For those who won't be able to see this or attend the festival, they can visit the Takayama Matsuri Yatai Kaikan or Takayama Festival Float Exhibition Hall found in the vicinity of the shrine. 

You can place your donations here

The Hall of Worship as seen from the side

Kotohira Shrine

 Terusaki Shrine on the left and Fuduzeka on the right

Inari Shrine

The sacred arch leading to the shrine

My family and I got to visit Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine during our 16th day in Japan. It was the last destination in our Takayama City exploration. Although we did not stay long to explore every nook and cranny of the shrine, I still made sure to get the shrine's goshuin for my collection. 

The goshuin of Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine Admission Fee:

It's good to note that you don't need to pay any admission fee to explore the shrine grounds. However, you can make a donation at the coin box found in front of the Hall of Worship and also in front of every mini shrine in the vicinity.

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine Opening Hours:

Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine is always open.

Why visit Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine?

Overall, Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine is a great place to visit if you prefer to escape the man-made concrete forest of Takayama City. If you want to witness the lively Hachiman Matsuri then make sure to visit the shrine on October 9 and 10. 

Getting to Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine:

From Takayama Station, Sakurayama Hachimangu Shrine can be reached by foot (20-minute walk) or by taxi (a 5-minute ride).

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