Meishin-taisha

Iwashimizu Hachimangu

石清水八幡宮

Nijunisha
Iwashimizu Hachimangu
Image: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
Admission
Free
Goshuin
300 yen
Access
See details
Hours
6:00-18:00

Overview

Iwashimizu Hachimangu stands atop Mount Otokoyama and is one of Japan's three major Hachiman shrines, alongside Usa Hachimangu and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. Founded in 859 when the monk Gyokyo invited the deity from Usa, it served as the guardian shrine protecting the capital from the southwest direction. The main hall complex, consisting of 10 buildings, was designated a National Treasure in 2016. The architecture showcases the ornate 'yatsumune-zukuri' style with brilliantly lacquered and decorated interiors.

History

Founding

📄
Documented
859

Source: Founded in Jogan 1 when the deity was invited from Usa Hachimangu

Enshrined Deities

primary Deity

God of archery, war, and the protector of warriors; also guardian of the Japanese nation and the Imperial house

secondary Deity

Semi-legendary empress; deity of safe childbirth, maritime protection, and victory in battle

secondary Deity

Goddess of water, islands, music, eloquence, and wealth; one of the three Munakata goddesses

Blessings

Shrine Network

Hachiman One of three major Hachiman shrines

Did You Know?

💡

The Edison Memorial stands in the shrine grounds because Thomas Edison used bamboo from this mountain for his first practical light bulb filament.

Source: documented

Practical Information

Location Coordinates

34.8792, 135.7008

Physical Address

30 Yawata Takabo, Yawata-shi, Kyoto

京都府八幡市八幡高坊30

Historical Province

Yamashiro / Tanba / Tango

Access

Iwashimizu-Hachimangu Station (Keihan)

Hours

6:00-18:00

Bus

Cable car from station to hilltop shrine

Best Times to Visit

September (Iwashimizu Festival)

Foreign Language Support

English (pamphlet)

Accessibility

Limited (hilltop location)

Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.

Why This Shrine

One of Japan's three great Hachiman shrines with a National Treasure hilltop hall complex. Fun fact: Edison used bamboo from this mountain in his light bulbs.

Related Shrines

Related Myths

Learn More About Shinto Shrines

Background reading for visitors and pilgrims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team

What is Iwashimizu Hachimangu?

Iwashimizu Hachimangu stands atop Mount Otokoyama and is one of Japan's three major Hachiman shrines, alongside Usa Hachimangu and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. Founded in 859 when the monk Gyokyo invited the deity from Usa, it served as the guardian shrine protecting the capital from the southwest direction. The main hall complex, consisting of 10 buildings, was designated a National Treasure in 2016. The architecture showcases the ornate 'yatsumune-zukuri' style with brilliantly lacquered and decorated interiors.

Where is Iwashimizu Hachimangu located?

Iwashimizu Hachimangu is located in Yawata-shi, Kyoto. The full address is: 30 Yawata Takabo, Yawata-shi, Kyoto.

What deities are enshrined at Iwashimizu Hachimangu?

The enshrined deities are: Hachiman Okami, Empress Jingu (Okinagatarashihime), Ichikishimahime no Mikoto.

What blessings can you pray for at Iwashimizu Hachimangu?

Iwashimizu Hachimangu is known for: Victory, National Protection, Success.

How do I get to Iwashimizu Hachimangu?

The nearest station is Iwashimizu-Hachimangu Station (Keihan). Cable car from station to hilltop shrine