Matsuyama｜One of Japan's Three Great Hachiman-style Shrines: The "Guaranteed Success" Legend of Isaniwa Shrine

Climbing up 135 steps, the vermilion shrine might remind you of Iwashimizu Hachiman Shrine. This is Isaniwa Shrine in Matsuyama, a name that may be a bit of a tongue twister, but it is an authentic Japanese shrine. Locals also refer to it as Dogo Hachiman or Yuzuki Hachiman. During the Yayoi period, Emperor Chuai and Empress Jingu are said to have visited Dogo Onsen for a soak, and this place is believed to have been their temporary palace. Legend has it that during the Edo period, Matsuyama Domain's third lord, Matsudaira Sadatomo, made a wish for guaranteed success at Hachiman Shrine before participating in the "Yabusame" archery test in Edo. His wish came true, and upon returning to Matsuyama, he remodeled Isaniwa Shrine in the style of Iwashimizu Hachiman Shrine. The shrine enshrines Hachiman deity (Emperor Ojin), Emperor Chuai, Empress Jingu, and the three Munakata goddesses. As a shrine dedicated to emperors, its architecture is particularly grand, featuring an imposing gate, exquisite carvings, and intricately painted corridors that embody the elegance of Momoyama period architecture. On the corridors, eight portable shrines are displayed, which are taken out for a parade during the Matsuyama Autumn Festival on October 7th. The festival also includes the intense "portable shrine collision" (Hachiawase) event, where two groups clash their shrines together in a battle-like manner, earning it the nickname "Fighting Shrines." For festival enthusiasts, this is a must-attend event at least once in a lifetime. 📍Address: 173 Sakuradanicho, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0838, Japan 🚗 Access: A five-minute walk from Dogo Onsen Station on the tram line.