Asahi hachiman-jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Asahi hachiman-jinja is a Shinto shrine in Matsuyama with roots stretching back over a thousand years. The main building dates to 1667 and stands as an important cultural property, featuring simple wooden structures with traditional roofing and clean, well-kept grounds.
The shrine was built in 1667 by Sadanaga Matsudaira, the ruling lord of Matsuyama at the time, as a way to thank the gods for being chosen to perform horseback archery at Edo Castle. It belongs to a group of Hachiman-style shrines and is one of three main shrines of this type throughout Japan.
The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, a spirit many people believe protects warriors and offers help during difficult times. Visitors observe people praying, leaving small offerings, and ringing a bell as part of their visits, following customs that feel respectful and unhurried.
The shrine sits near Dogo Onsen Streetcar Station, making it easy to reach by public transportation. The grounds are open during daylight hours, and free parking is available nearby, though it may have time limits.
The shrine is one of only three main Hachiman-style shrines in all of Japan, a distinction many visitors overlook. This rarity makes it a meaningful destination for those curious about Japan's religious structures and their ranking within the larger tradition.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
