By ando 
Shioya Hachimangu jinja, located at the western edge of what was once a castle town in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is a historic jinja founded by the celebrated general Hosokawa Tadaoki (Sansai) during the transition from the Sengoku period to the Edo period. While affectionately known to locals as “Shioya no Hachiman-san,” its history conceals mysterious legends and a deep connection to one of Kyushu’s most significant festivals.
Basic Information
Location: Yatsushiro Hachiman-cho 1-11, Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Emperor Ojin, Empress Jingu, Emperor Nintoku, Takeuchi no Sukune
Blessings: Safe childbirth, child-rearing, good health, academic success, business prosperity
Mysterious Founding Legend: The Vanishing Old Man and Two Doves
The origins of Shioya Hachimangu jinja are tied to a wondrous episode, much like an old folktale.
In 1632 (Kanei 9), when Lord Hosokawa Tadaoki retired to Yatsushiro Castle, he sought to invite a bunrei (divided spirit) from Usa Jingu jinja in Oita, which he deeply revered. As he searched for a suitable place for its enshrinement, an old man appeared and pointed to a certain embankment, saying:
“Long ago, there was a small Hachiman shrine here. Only an old tree remains now, but this is where the kami should be enshrined.”
When the old man vanished, two doves are said to have flown from nowhere and landed on that old tree. Perceiving this as divine will, Lord Tadaoki built a shrine building at that spot (the current location of Wakamiya Jinja). Later, in 1655, it was relocated to its present site, becoming the guardian deity (shugoshin) of the western region of Yatsushiro castle town.
The Mystery of the Kyushu Grand Myoken Festival: Where the Kami “Stays Overnight”
Essential to any discussion of Shioya Hachimangu jinja is the Yatsushiro Myoken Festival, registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
In fact, this jinja plays a highly significant role as an “otabisho” (temporary resting place for kami) during the Myoken Festival. On the night of November 22nd, the kami of Yatsushiro Jinja makes an “okudari” (descent) to Shioya Hachimangu jinja and spends the night here.
Early the next morning, on the 23rd, the “onobori” (ascent) takes place, with a magnificent procession of kami departing from this very spot. The sight of the gigantic Kida (Game, a turtle-snake mythical creature) and kasaboko floats gathered on the shrine grounds is breathtaking. But why was Shioya Hachimangu jinja chosen? It is said to be because this location was the entrance to the castle town, a sacred boundary connecting the sea (shio, or tide) and the land.
Inside Story: The Power of the “Ascending Carp” Hidden in the Haiden
When you visit, be sure to notice the beautiful carvings on the transom of the haiden (worship hall). Auspicious carp are depicted here.
These carp are inspired by the legend of “Toryumon” (Dragon Gate), where carp swim upstream against a waterfall to transform into dragons, symbolizing success in life and rising fortune. An amulet known as the “Rising Fortune Amulet (Black),” featuring this carving, is a popular item sought after by those in the know. With a powerful carp embroidered on it, it’s a hidden gem that worshipers hoping to boost their luck in competitions or their career fortunes eagerly purchase.
Anime Pilgrimage Information: Yatsushiro as an Anime Setting
Yatsushiro City, home to Shioya Hachimangu jinja, has recently gained attention among anime fans.
In particular, the pole dance anime “Pole Princess!!”, set in Yatsushiro City, faithfully depicts local scenery, drawing a constant stream of fans for “seichi junrei” (pilgrimages to anime locations). Furthermore, quiet alleys and old stone walls evoking the atmosphere of “Natsume’s Book of Friends,” an anime whose setting models the entire Kumamoto Prefecture, remain prominently around the jinja.
Some works also feature scenes from the Myoken Festival, making Shioya Hachimangu jinja, a hub for the festival, an ideal place to experience the anime’s world firsthand.
Highlights for Your Visit
In addition to the main hall (honden), the shrine grounds also house Kotohira-gu for maritime safety and Inari Jinja for business prosperity. As the name “Shioya” (salt shop) suggests, the jinja continues to convey the history of this area, which once flourished through salt production and trade.
Though located in a quiet residential area, stepping onto its grounds envelops you in a unique atmosphere, blending the reverence of successive castle lords like the Hosokawa and Matsui families with the fervent festival culture of its citizens. It is also within walking distance of Yatsushiro Castle Ruins, so be sure to include it in your historical walking tour.
Related Links / References
[1] https://allkumamoto.com/spot/shioyahachiman
[2] YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEmfPrT1-Kc
[3] https://kt-hub.com/21955/shioyahachimanguu/
[4] Shioya Hachimangu – Fukuoka no Mori https://www.fukuokanomori.xyz/shoukai/shioyahachimangu/
[5] Shioya Hachimangu | Yatsushiro Press https://www.8-pre.net/%E5%A1%A9%E5%B1%8B%E5%85%AB%E5%B9%A1%E5%AE%AE/
[6] Natsume’s Book of Friends Pilgrimage! 8 Kumamoto Tourist Spots that Served as Models https://www.fun-japan.jp/jp/articles/13743