Usa Jingu Shrine

More than 40,000 Hachiman shrines throughout Japan, which are called "Hachiman-sama" and worshiped in various places, are the largest number among Shinto shrines. The main shrine is Usa Jingu, built in the 2nd year of the Jinki era (725). It is the second-largest shrine in Japan after Ise Jingu Shrine and is revered by the imperial family.

In the Jogu(upper shrine) stands the brightly painted vermilion Chokushimon Gate (Imperial gate), the face of the Usa Jingu Shrine. The main shrine, designated as a national treasure, is located inside this gate and enshrines Emperor Ojin (Hachiman-daijin) in the Ichino goten(first hall), Hime-daijin in the Nino goten(second hall), and Empress Jingu, mother of Emperor Ojin, in the Sanno goten(third hall). Hachiman-O-kami is widely worshipped throughout Japan and is believed to have divine solid power to bring good fortune in all fields. The same deity is enshrined at Gegu(Lower Shrine), so do not forget to visit the shrine. The method of worship is "Ni-rei, shi-hakushu, Ichi-rei" (two bows, four claps, and one bow). Unlike the standard two-clap way, the ancient custom is to clap hands four times.

The covered Kure Bridge, which spans the west side of the shrine, has been in existence since before the Kamakura period (1185-1333) and was passed by imperial envoys (messengers of the emperor). Today, the doors of this bridge are opened only once every ten years during the Imperial Envoy Festival.