Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

What to know

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu (鶴岡八幡宮) is the most significant shrine in Kamakura. Founded in 1063 by Minamoto Yoriyoshi, it was expanded and relocated to its present location in 1180 by Minamoto Yoritomo, the founder and first shogun of the Kamakura shogunate.

The shrine honors Hachiman, the patron deity of the Minamoto clan and the samurai class. Enshrined here are the deified spirits of Emperor Ojin (identified with Hachiman), Hime-gami, and Empress Jingu.

Visitors approach the shrine along a long, wide path that runs from Kamakura's coast through the city center, lined with several torii gates. The main hall (Hongu or Jogu) sits on a terrace atop a broad staircase. Inside the main hall is a small museum displaying treasures such as swords, masks, and documents.

To the left of the staircase stood a massive ginkgo tree until 2010, which predated the shrine and was once used as a hiding place for an ambush on a shogun. Each autumn it turned a brilliant gold, but it was toppled by a winter storm in March 2010. At the base of the stairs is the Maiden, a stage for dance and music. Other structures include the Wakamiya Shrine, a secondary shrine to the right of the stairs, and various auxiliary buildings.

Flanking the main approach are two ponds. One represents the Minamoto clan with three islands, while the other represents the Taira clan, the Minamoto's archrivals, with four islands (the number four is pronounced like 'death' in Japanese). A garden known for its peonies surrounds the Minamoto Pond and is open seasonally in spring and winter for a 500 yen fee.

The shrine hosts various events throughout the year. During New Year's, it attracts over two million visitors, making it one of Japan's most popular spots for hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year). In mid-April and mid-September, horseback archery (yabusame) is performed along the main approach.