Usa Jingu: The Grand Hachiman Shrine Where Japan’s Spirit and History Reside

Step Into the Sacred Origins of Japan’s Most Beloved Deity

Nestled in the lush forests of Oita Prefecture, Usa Jingu is the spiritual heart of Hachiman worship in Japan.
Among the country’s 110,000 shrines, over 46,000 are dedicated to Hachiman, making this the most widely revered kami (deity) in the Shinto pantheon—and Usa Jingu is their head shrine.

The enshrined deity, Hachiman Ōkami, is the deified spirit of Emperor Ōjin, who is believed to have first appeared in Usa in 571. A visionary ruler, Emperor Ōjin welcomed foreign knowledge and technologies, fostering the foundations of early Japanese statecraft and culture.

In 725, a permanent shrine was established at the current site, marking the official birth of Usa Jingu.

A Shrine of Three Pillars and Timeless Reverence

Long before Hachiman’s arrival, this region was already considered sacred. The ancient goddess Hime Ōkami was worshipped here as the original guardian of the land, said to have descended upon Usa Island during the age of the gods—a story recorded in the Nihon Shoki, one of Japan’s oldest chronicles.

Following a divine oracle, Usa Jingu expanded its sanctum:

• In 733, the Second Hall was built to honor Hime Ōkami.

• In 823, the Third Hall was added to enshrine Empress Jingū, the mother of Emperor Ōjin and a powerful symbol of protection, safe childbirth, and education.

These three sanctuaries form a unique architectural configuration called Hachiman-zukuri, where three main halls stand side by side—an extremely rare and prestigious form in Shinto architecture.

Hachiman Ōkami’s spiritual influence has guided emperors, warriors, and commoners alike. He is revered for supporting the construction of the Great Buddha at Tōdai-ji Temple and for delivering divine guidance to statesman Wake no Kiyomaro, who helped preserve the integrity of the Japanese state.

Usa Jingu is also one of Japan’s 16 Chokusaisha—imperial shrines that receive messengers from the Emperor, second only in rank to Ise Jingu.

Experience Living Rituals: The Grand Summer Festival

Throughout the year, Usajingū hosts various sacred rituals, but one of the most beloved by the locals is the Nagoshi Taisai (Usajingū Goshinkōsai)—a summer purification festival rooted in centuries of tradition. This sacred event was originally held to cleanse people of impurities and protect the nation from plagues and natural disasters.

After a solemn ritual at the main shrine, the sacred spirits (shintai) are transferred to three mikoshi (portable shrines) and ceremoniously carried to a temporary shrine called Tongū, located within the grounds. Leading the vibrant procession is Sarutahiko, followed by children dressed as butterflies, birds, and horses, filling the air with color and energy. Accompanied by the lively sounds of traditional music, priests and parade officials walk in unison, bringing a sacred rhythm to the event.

Upon arrival at Tongū, a cleansing ritual known as Suganuki-shinji is performed, where prayers are offered for a rich harvest, national peace, and the health of all people. After two nights and three days, the mikoshi and their divine passengers return to the main hall in a grand procession.

During the festival, the shrine grounds come alive with food stalls, stage performances, and joyful crowds, creating a beautiful contrast between sacred tradition and festive energy.

A Sanctuary of Stillness, Grandeur, and Grace

Usajingū is not just a sightseeing spot—it's a spiritual heritage site where over a thousand years of faith still breathe in harmony with nature. The main shrine, designated as a National Treasure, rises with dignity from the forest, surrounded by towering ancient trees.

Visiting this sacred place—where history, faith, architecture, and community intertwine—leaves a lasting impression and a deeper meaning in your journey.

For your next adventure, discover the luxury of inner peace. Come experience the essence of Japan at Usajingū.