The History of Sakamoto Hachiman Shrine
From a Clan’s Place of Prayer to a Community Shrine
The shrine’s origins lie in its role as a place where the Oe clan offered prayers. In 1598, it was moved to its current location through the efforts of people from the Matsuo and Obaku communities, becoming a shared place of worship for local residents.
Over the centuries, the shrine has remained an important focus of religious life in the area. Its long history reflects the enduring relationship between Shinto beliefs, local communities, and the traditions passed down through generations.
Official Recognition in 1872
In 1872, Sakamoto Hachiman Shrine received the designation of a village shrine under Japan’s former shrine-ranking system. This recognition further established its importance within the community, and local residents have continued to care for and protect the shrine as part of their cultural heritage.
The Seven Shrines and Seven Stone Torii Gates Pilgrimage
A Unique Local Tradition
One of the shrine’s most distinctive features is a traditional pilgrimage route known as the Seven Shrines and Seven Torii Gates Pilgrimage. According to local belief, people who cross no river, pass through seven stone torii gates, and visit all seven subsidiary shrines will be protected from chūfu, a traditional term associated with conditions such as paralysis and cerebrovascular disorders.
This unusual custom makes Sakamoto Hachiman Shrine a particularly interesting destination for travelers curious about Japan’s local religious traditions. Along the route, visitors pass through seven stone torii gates and can pay their respects at the following seven shrines:
- Mishima Shrine
- Ebisu Shrine
- Yasaka Shrine
- Hachiman Shrine
- Wakamiya Shrine
- Jigami Shrine
- Akiba Shrine
Approximately 300 Stone Steps and Guardian Dogs
The pilgrimage route includes approximately 300 stone steps leading past the seven torii gates. Along the staircase stand five pairs of komainu, traditional guardian lion-dogs commonly found at Shinto shrines. These statues watch over the approach, creating a distinctive atmosphere that reflects the area’s longstanding religious customs.
Walking this route offers visitors a chance to experience a traditional form of Japanese shrine worship while appreciating the historic stonework, sacred gates, and quiet natural surroundings.
Annual Festivals and Religious Ceremonies
Sakamoto Hachiman Shrine hosts a variety of ceremonies and festivals throughout the year. These events are closely connected to local life and play an important role in preserving the community’s traditions.
New Year Shrine Visit (Hatsumōde)
At the beginning of the year, local residents visit the shrine to pray for good fortune, health, and happiness. Many arrive late on New Year’s Eve to welcome the new year at the shrine, continuing a cherished Japanese tradition known as hatsumōde.
Ebisu Festival — January 10
The Ebisu Festival is held on January 10 to pray for prosperity in business and commercial activities. Dedicated to Ebisu, a deity associated with good fortune and successful trade, the festival brings members of the local community together in a lively celebration.
Prayer Ceremony for the Coming Harvest — February 17
The annual harvest-prayer ceremony, known as Toshigoi-no-Matsuri, takes place on February 17. Prayers are offered for a plentiful harvest, particularly of rice and other crops. The ceremony reflects the longstanding importance of agriculture in Japanese culture.
Fire Prevention Festival — April 16
The Chin-ka-sai, or Fire Prevention Festival, is held on April 16 in front of Akiba Shrine. Local firefighters and community organizations take part in prayers for protection against fires and other fire-related disasters.
Summer Festival — July 19–20
The summer festival celebrates the annual festivals of Yasaka Shrine and Hachiman Shrine. Festivities include fireworks, danjiri festival floats, mikoshi portable shrines, and mochi rice-cake throwing. The celebrations bring energy and excitement to the surrounding community.
Annual Autumn Festival — October 14–15
The autumn festival commemorates the annual festivals of Yasaka Shrine and Mishima Shrine. Visitors can enjoy fireworks, danjiri floats, mikoshi processions, traditional sumo wrestling, and mochi throwing. It is one of the major community celebrations of the year.
Niiname-sai Harvest Thanksgiving — November 23
Niiname-sai is a traditional harvest thanksgiving ceremony in which newly harvested grains are offered in gratitude for the year’s crops. Observed at shrines throughout Japan, the ceremony expresses appreciation for agricultural abundance and includes prayers for peace and well-being throughout the country.
Shichi-Go-San Children’s Celebration — November 15
Shichi-Go-San is a traditional Japanese celebration marking the healthy growth of children, typically those aged three, five, and seven. Families visit shrines to pray for their children’s continued health, happiness, and safety.
Seasonal Attractions: Big Hina Matsuri and Flower Decorations
Sakamoto Hina Meguri
From February 27 to March 14, Sakamoto Hachiman Shrine participates in the Big Hina Matsuri, a seasonal celebration featuring traditional Japanese dolls displayed for the Hina Matsuri festival, also known as Girls’ Day. The shrine works with Fureai no Sato Sakamoto to organize Sakamoto Hina Meguri, an event that invites visitors to discover hina dolls and enjoy the festive atmosphere throughout the local community.
The displays offer an opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and cultural significance of Japan’s traditional ornamental dolls while exploring the historic shrine and its surroundings.
Hanachōzu: Flowers Arranged in the Purification Basin
Another appealing feature of the shrine is hanachōzu, a decorative practice in which colorful flowers are arranged in the water basin traditionally used for ritual purification before prayer. The vivid floral displays add seasonal beauty to the sacred grounds, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors and offering attractive photo opportunities.
Experience Local Culture and Spiritual Traditions in Tokushima
Sakamoto Hachiman Shrine offers much more than a traditional place of worship. Its centuries-old history, unusual seven-gate pilgrimage route, stone staircase, guardian statues, and lively annual festivals provide a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural life of rural Tokushima.
Visitors can explore the shrine’s distinctive religious traditions, admire seasonal flower arrangements, and, when visiting at the right time of year, experience local celebrations such as the summer festival and Sakamoto Hina Meguri. For travelers interested in Japan’s lesser-known shrines and community traditions, this historic sanctuary in Katsuuracho is a rewarding place to discover.