Usa Shrine is the head shrine of the approximately 40,000 Hachimangu shrines in Japan, and has long been revered by the imperial family and the general public. Built in 725, this historical shrine enshrines Hachiman no Okami (Emperor Ojin), Hime no Okami, and Empress Jingu. It is one of the three major Hachimangu Shrines in Japan, and has the status of Buzen Province Ichinomiya, Meishin Taisha Shrine, and Chokusai Shrine.
Usa Shrine is located in Usa City, Oita Prefecture, about a 15-minute walk from Usa Station, where JR Kyushu's Nippo Main Line, Hohi Main Line, and Kyudai Main Line intersect. The grounds are spacious and surrounded by beautiful nature. The approach to the shrine is lined with old trees such as camphor trees and cedars, and you can enjoy the atmosphere of each season.
There are various attractions within the precincts. The first thing that catches your eye is the torii gate and the tower gate. The torii is about 10 meters high and about 8 meters wide and was built in the Edo period. The tower gate was built in the Meiji period and is designated as an important cultural property. After passing through the gate, you can see the main hall in front of you. The main shrine consists of three palaces, each enshrining Hachiman no Okami, Hime no Okami, and Empress Jingu. The main hall is designated as a national treasure and is a valuable building that conveys the Nagarezukuri style, the oldest architectural style in Japan.
There are many other companies and facilities within the precincts. For example, there are separate shrines that enshrine Amaterasu-no-Omikami and Sugawara no Michizane, as well as monuments and graveyards for military commanders and cultural figures. There is also a museum and library where you can see materials related to Usa Shrine and the Hachiman faith.
Various events and festivals are held at Usa Shrine throughout the year. Especially famous are the New Year's visit from January 1st to 3rd and the annual summer festival from August 1st to 15th. It is said that about 1 million worshipers visit the shrine during the New Year's visit, and traditional events such as dedicatory sumo wrestling and yabusame (horseback archery) are held during the annual summer festival.
Usa Shrine is also popular as a power spot. It is said that receiving the Goshuin is particularly beneficial.
Here is a website where you can obtain detailed information about Usa Shrine.
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