Yamanami Hachimangu Shrine

Overview

Yamanami Hachimangu Shrine is located in Yamanami-cho, Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture. Its former official ranking was that of a Gosha (village shrine). Established during the An-gen era (1175-1177), it's said that Yamanami Yoshinori, ancestor of the Yamanami clan and descendant of Yoshishige Nitta of the Minamoto clan (Seiwa Genji), enshrined the deity from Usa Shrine in Buzen Province (present-day Oita Prefecture). The shrine building was constructed during the Bunji era (1185-1190). Yamanami Hachimangu Shrine is deeply revered as a deity of safe childbirth, child-rearing, and insect protection, with many visiting to pray for safe childbirth. The shrine possesses numerous valuable treasures, including the "Heavenly Treasured Sword" said to have been donated by Yoshinori, swords donated by Masayoshi and Ryooukun Serada, and a riding mount donated by Tadaaki Sakai, the lord of Maebashi Domain. Yamanami Hachimangu Shrine also holds a unique belief in bifurcated radishes (Nisha Daikon). The ceiling painting of the haiden (worship hall) depicts Daikokuten carrying a bifurcated radish, and there's even a Sangaku (mathematical tablet) with a problem related to bifurcated radishes. These radishes, with two stems growing from a single root, are considered auspicious. The shrine offers good luck charms featuring these radishes. Furthermore, Yamanami Hachimangu Shrine offers "Hariko Shishigashira" (papier-mâché lion heads), designated as a traditional folk craft of Gunma Prefecture. These lion heads have been cherished as charms against evil spirits and misfortune. The shrine's Hariko Shishigashira are known for their exquisite craftsmanship, carrying on a long tradition. Yamanami Hachimangu Shrine is a captivating shrine steeped in history and tradition. It's said to grant various wishes, including safe childbirth and protection from misfortune. Be sure to visit!