Musashino Hachimangu

Musashino Hachimangu is a historic Shinto shrine located in the Kichijoji district of Musashino City, Tokyo. The shrine was originally founded in 785 (Enryaku 8) by the military commander Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, though its current location dates to the aftermath of the Great Fire of Meireki in 1657, when residents displaced from Koishikawa established Kichijoji Village and enshrined the Hachiman deity as their guardian god. The shrine is dedicated to Oujin Emperor (also known as Hondawake no Mikoto), revered as the God of Bows and Arrows, along with Himeokami and Ootaihime no Mikoto.

The shrine grounds span approximately 1,300 tsubo (around 4,300 square meters) and are characterized by a serene setting within a cluster of zelkova and camphor trees. The shrine serves as an important spiritual center for the local community and is believed to bring blessings for business prosperity, marital harmony, and protection from misfortune. Within the precincts stand seven smaller shrines, including Ootori Shrine, each with its own significance. The architecture features traditional Japanese design elements with komainu guardian statues accompanied by cubs.

Visitors experience the shrine's peaceful atmosphere along with its cultural significance through various annual festivals. The shrine supports local celebrations including the Kichijoji Aki Matsuri in September, which features food stalls and game booths. The Tori no Ichi (Rake Fair) held in November is particularly notable, featuring rows of stalls selling decorative kumade rakes that symbolize gathering good fortune. The shrine area is part of a historic temple district, with four nearby temples—Anyoji, Kosenji, Renjoji, and Gessouji—collectively known as the Shikendera Temples.

The shrine is easily accessible from Kichijoji Station on the JR Chuo Line, located approximately 7-10 minutes walk from the station's north exit. From Shinjuku Station, the journey takes around 30 minutes on the JR Chuo Line (Rapid) to Kichijoji Station. Entry to the shrine grounds is free of charge, making it an accessible destination for both spiritual visits and cultural exploration.