Standing majestically in Usa City, Oita Prefecture, Usa Jingu serves as the head shrine of approximately 44,000 Hachiman shrines throughout Japan. Since its founding in 725 CE, this venerable sanctuary has accumulated approximately 1,300 years of history, affectionately known as “Usa Hachiman” or “Usa Hachimangu.” Revered as the second most important imperial ancestral shrine after Ise Jingu, it receives profound veneration from the imperial family and welcomes approximately 1.5 million worshippers annually.
The three principal deities are Hachiman Okami (Emperor Ojin), Himeokami, and Empress Jingu. Hachiman Okami, as the god of military fortune, commanded tremendous faith from warrior clans led by the Minamoto clan, shaping the course of Japanese history. During the Nara period, a divine oracle supported the construction of the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, establishing the deity’s position as protector of the nation.
Upon entering the vast grounds, visitors are immediately struck by the magnificent vermillion shrine buildings. The main hall is built in the distinctive “Hachiman-zukuri” architectural style and designated a National Treasure. The sacred forest, home to a great camphor tree approximately 800 years old and about 150 other giant camphor trees, fills the air with pure energy that deeply soothes visitors’ hearts. The worship etiquette is also unique—following the same “two bows, four claps, one bow” tradition as Izumo Taisha, this is a power spot steeped in mystery.
Usa Jingu was founded in 725 CE by imperial decree of Emperor Shomu, enshrining Hachiman Okami. Hachiman Okami is said to have first appeared in the land of Usa in 571 CE during Emperor Kinmei’s reign, and his divine authority rapidly spread throughout Japan.
During the Nara period, when the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple was being constructed, a divine oracle declared, “I shall lead the heavenly and earthly deities to ensure its completion,” supporting this national undertaking. Through this achievement, in 749 CE, Hachiman was enshrined at Todai-ji Temple, and thereafter the shrine became a center of “Shinbutsu-shugo” (the syncretism of Buddhism and Shinto).
During the Heian period, the “Usa Hachiman Oracle Incident” drew the shrine into imperial political struggles, deeply involving it in turning points of Japanese history. From the Kamakura period onward, warrior governments including that of Minamoto no Yoritomo revered the shrine as the god of military fortune, and Hachiman worship spread nationwide. Today, Hachiman shrines are the second most numerous shrine lineage in Japan, after Inari shrines.
Architecture and Natural Features
Usa Jingu’s main halls are built in the distinctive “Hachiman-zukuri” architectural style, designated as National Treasures. This configuration, connecting front and rear halls with an “ai-no-ma” (connecting room), became the prototype for Hachiman shrine architecture, representing the oldest and largest surviving example of this style. The vermillion pillars, white walls, and cypress bark roofs create a majestic appearance that overwhelms visitors.
The main halls consist of three buildings standing in a row: Ichi-no-Goden (Hachiman Okami), Ni-no-Goden (Himeokami), and San-no-Goden (Empress Jingu), all designated National Treasures. Particularly, Himeokami enshrined in the second hall is considered the tutelary deity of Usa, a mysterious existence whose true identity remains shrouded in mystery.
The grounds are home to approximately 150 giant camphor trees, including a great camphor estimated to be about 800 years old, forming a sacred forest. Along the approach connecting the Upper Shrine and Lower Shrine, seasonal flowers bloom throughout the year, with spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage being particularly spectacular.
What Makes This Spot Special
Usa Jingu’s most distinctive feature is its unique worship etiquette of “two bows, four claps, one bow.” Like Izumo Taisha, this more elevated ritual than the standard “two bows, two claps, one bow” has been passed down, reflecting the shrine’s high status.
Additionally, Usa Jingu has both an “Upper Shrine” (Jogu) and “Lower Shrine” (Gegu), and visiting both constitutes a complete pilgrimage. The saying “To visit only the Upper Shrine is but half a visit” emphasizes the importance of worshipping at both shrines.
The “Negake Jizo” (Wish-Making Jizo) within the grounds is said to grant one wish in a lifetime, drawing many worshippers who offer earnest prayers. The “Meoto Ishi” (Husband and Wife Stones) has also gained popularity as a power spot for good relationships and marital harmony.
Spiritual Benefits and Effects
Known Spiritual Benefits
Usa Jingu’s three principal deities each bestow diverse blessings.
Victory and Career Success: Hachiman Okami, as the god of military fortune, offers blessings for all competitive endeavors. Passing examinations, sports victories, business success—the deity grants power in situations where you want to win.
Matchmaking and Marital Harmony: Himeokami and Empress Jingu serve as guardian deities for women, offering blessings for successful romantic connections, marital harmony, and safe childbirth. The “Husband and Wife Stones” within the grounds is particularly popular as a matchmaking spot.
Protection from Misfortune and Good Fortune: As the god of national protection, the deity is believed to ward off all disasters and bring good fortune to one’s life.
Business Prosperity: Hachiman is also worshipped as a deity of industry, attracting many business owners praying for enterprise prosperity.
The Unique Energy of This Site
Usa Jingu is considered a place filled with energies of “rebirth” and “new beginnings.” Visiting at life’s turning points, when starting something new, or when wanting to overcome difficulties is said to provide strong support.
The area before the main hall of the Upper Shrine is considered where divine energy is most concentrated. Many people report feeling warmth spreading through their bodies when closing their eyes and praying quietly here.
Visitor Testimonials
“I visited while trying to rebuild my company. When I made my once-in-a-lifetime wish at the Negake Jizo, a major contract was finalized the following month, saving my company.” (Man in his 50s, Fukuoka)
“I prayed at the Husband and Wife Stones before getting married. This year marks our 10th wedding anniversary, and I believe our harmonious marriage is thanks to Usa Jingu.” (Woman in her 40s, Oita)
Best Times to Visit
Spring (March–May)
Early April, when approximately 500 cherry trees bloom throughout the grounds, is particularly recommended. The cherry blossom-lined approach is spectacular, creating beautiful contrast with the vermillion shrine buildings. Comfortable temperatures of 15-22°C (59-72°F) make visiting pleasant, and though tourists increase, early mornings allow for peaceful worship. Recommendation: ★★★★★
Summer (June–August)
The “Nagoshi-sai” festival from late July to early August features the chi-no-wa kuguri (passing through a sacred grass ring) to purify the impurities of the past half-year. Temperatures exceed 30°C (86°F), but the camphor forest provides ample shade for a cool visit. Worshipping amid the chorus of cicadas has its own charm. Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Autumn (September–November)
The autumn foliage season from October to November paints the grounds in reds and yellows, with the area around the Upper Shrine being particularly magnificent. Temperatures of 15-20°C (59-68°F) make this the most comfortable season. The “Chushu-sai” festival in October features traditional kagura performances. Recommendation: ★★★★★
Winter (December–February)
Fewer visitors make this ideal for those seeking peaceful worship. Temperatures of 5-12°C (41-54°F) require warm clothing, but worshipping in the crisp air is exceptional. The first three days of the New Year draw approximately 400,000 visitors, so mid-January onward is recommended. Recommendation: ★★★☆☆
Best Times of Day
Early Morning (6:00-8:00 AM): Immediately after opening, visitors are few and worship can be conducted in a sacred atmosphere. The shrine buildings wrapped in morning mist are fantastically beautiful.
Morning (9:00-11:00 AM): The amulet office is open for goshuin and charms. Relatively few visitors allow for leisurely exploration.
Late Afternoon (4:00-5:00 PM): The vermillion shrine buildings illuminated by western light glow golden, making this an ideal time for photography.
Visitor’s Guide
Basic Worship Etiquette
1. Main Approach/West Approach: Bow before passing through the torii gate. Walk along the sides of the approach.
2. Temizuya (Purification Fountain):
– Hold the ladle in your right hand and rinse your left hand
– Transfer to your left hand and rinse your right hand
– Return to your right hand, pour water into your cupped left palm, and rinse your mouth
– Tilt the ladle vertically to rinse the handle
3. Worship at the Main Hall (Usa Jingu’s unique ritual):
– Quietly offer your monetary offering
– Two bows, four claps, one bow (nihai-shihakushu-ichihai)
– Clap four times instead of the usual two
Highlights and Recommended Route
Suggested Route (Approximately 90 minutes)
1. Main Approach & Great Torii (5 min): Begin worship at the magnificent vermillion torii
2. Sacred Bridge & Temizuya (5 min): Purify body and mind
3. Upper Shrine & Nishi-Daimon Gate (5 min): National Treasure tower gate
4. Upper Shrine Main Halls (National Treasures) (15 min): Worship in order: First, Second, Third Halls
5. Negake Jizo (10 min): Make your once-in-a-lifetime wish
6. Wakamiya Shrine (5 min): Important auxiliary shrine
7. Walk to Lower Shrine (10 min): Stroll through the verdant approach
8. Lower Shrine Main Halls (10 min): Enshrines the same three deities as Upper Shrine
9. Husband and Wife Stones (5 min): Power spot for matchmaking
10. Amulet Office (10 min): Receive goshuin and charms
Goshuin and Amulet Information
Goshuin (Shrine Seal):
Fee: ¥500
Hours: 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
Separate goshuin available for Upper Shrine and Lower Shrine
Popular Amulets:
Victory Charm (¥800): Effective for all competitive situations
Matchmaking Charm (¥800): Attracts good connections
Hachiman Charm (¥1,000): Comprehensive protection of Hachiman Okami
Safe Childbirth Charm (¥800): Blessings of Empress Jingu
Dress Code and Items to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes (grounds are extensive with travel between Upper and Lower Shrines)
Hat, parasol, and water essential in summer
Warm clothing in winter (wind passes through the grounds)
Camera (for photographing National Treasure architecture)
Basic Information
Access
Address: 2859 Minami-Usa, Usa City, Oita Prefecture
By Car:
15 minutes from Usa IC
50 minutes from Beppu City
60 minutes from Oita City
Public Transportation:
From JR Nippo Main Line “Usa Station”: Bus approximately 10 minutes, get off at “Usa Hachiman”
From JR Nippo Main Line “Yanagigaura Station”: Taxi approximately 10 minutes
Parking: Paid parking available (¥400 for standard vehicles, approximately 800 spaces)
Usa Jingu Nakamise Street (immediate walk)
A temple town with souvenir shops and restaurants lining the approach. Sample the local specialty “Usa Karaage” (fried chicken) while strolling.
Showa-no-Machi (20 min by car)
A retro shopping district in Bungo-Takada City recreating the townscape of the 1950s. Bonnet buses also operate here.
Kunisaki Peninsula (40 min by car)
Center of Rokugo Manzan culture. A power spot area dotted with National Treasure and Important Cultural Property temples including Fuki-ji and Futago-ji.
Recommended Restaurants
Usa Karaage (Around Nakamise Street)
Karaage Specialty Shop Taiko
One of the birthplace shops of Usa karaage
Specialty: Boneless karaage (¥280/100g)
Hours: 10:00 AM-6:00 PM
Closed: Tuesdays
Karaage Specialty Shop Murakami
Proud of their secret sauce
Specialty: Chicken wing karaage (5 pieces, ¥500)
Hours: 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
Closed: Wednesdays
Other Dining
Kappo Yoshino
Japanese cuisine using local seafood
Specialty: Seafood Set (¥2,200)
Hours: 11:30 AM-2:00 PM, 5:00-9:00 PM
Closed: Mondays
Sabo Miya-no-Mori
Rest spot within the grounds
Specialties: Matcha Set (¥600), Dango (¥400)
Hours: 9:00 AM-4:30 PM
Closed: None
Souvenirs
Usa Ame: Auspicious candy, specialty of Usa Jingu
Usa Karaage (Frozen): Enjoy the specialty at home
Hachiman Charm: Popular as a good luck charm for competitions
Usa Jingu Sacred Sake: Commemorate your pilgrimage
Model Itineraries
Half-Day Course (Approximately 4 hours)
9:00 AM Arrive at Usa Jingu
9:30 AM Worship at Upper Shrine (including Negake Jizo)
10:30 AM Worship at Lower Shrine
11:00 AM Usa karaage lunch on Nakamise Street
12:00 PM Souvenir shopping
1:00 PM Depart
Full-Day Course (Approximately 8 hours)
9:00 AM Worship at Usa Jingu
11:00 AM Lunch on Nakamise Street
12:30 PM Travel to Showa-no-Machi
1:00 PM Explore Showa-no-Machi
3:00 PM Travel to Kunisaki Peninsula/Fuki-ji
3:30 PM Worship at Fuki-ji (National Treasure Main Hall)
5:00 PM Depart
Visitor Reviews and Experiences
“The Dignity of the Head Hachiman Shrine” (Man in his 60s, Tokyo)
“I had always wanted to visit as the head shrine of all Hachiman shrines nationwide. Upon actually visiting, I was overwhelmed by its scale and solemnity. The ‘two bows, four claps, one bow’ ritual was refreshing, and I felt the shrine’s high status.”
“Blessings from Negake Jizo” (Woman in her 30s, Fukuoka)
“When I was struggling with infertility, I made my once-in-a-lifetime wish at Negake Jizo. Six months later, I discovered I was pregnant and was able to give birth safely. When I returned for my gratitude visit, I couldn’t stop crying.”
“Glad We Visited Both Upper and Lower Shrines” (Couple in their 40s, Osaka)
“We originally planned to visit only the Upper Shrine, but hearing it would be ‘half a visit,’ we also worshipped at the Lower Shrine. The Lower Shrine was quieter than the Upper Shrine, offering a different atmosphere. We’re glad we visited both.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the “two bows, four claps, one bow” worship etiquette mandatory?
A: This is Usa Jingu’s formal ritual, so we recommend following it if possible. However, the standard “two bows, two claps, one bow” is also acceptable.
Q: Should I visit the Upper Shrine or Lower Shrine first?
A: Generally, visit the Upper Shrine first, then the Lower Shrine. Since “to visit only the Upper Shrine is but half a visit,” we recommend worshipping at both.
Q: Does the parking lot get crowded?
A: The first three days of New Year and weekends during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons are crowded. Weekdays and early mornings are relatively empty.
Q: Is the Treasure Hall worth visiting?
A: It displays National Treasure and Important Cultural Property sacred treasures and is a must-see for history enthusiasts. Allow approximately 30 minutes.
Summary
Usa Jingu is one of Japan’s premier power spots, boasting approximately 1,300 years of history and prestige as the head shrine of approximately 44,000 Hachiman shrines nationwide.
Visitors can receive diverse divine blessings including military fortune from Hachiman Okami, matchmaking and safe childbirth from Himeokami and Empress Jingu. Highlights abound, including the National Treasure “Hachiman-zukuri” main halls, the 800-year-old great camphor tree, and the “Negake Jizo” that grants one wish per lifetime.
The unique worship style of “two bows, four claps, one bow” and the dual pilgrimage to Upper and Lower Shrines are part of Usa Jingu’s distinctive appeal. The specialty “Usa Karaage” is available on Nakamise Street, allowing visitors to enjoy both worship and local cuisine.
When standing at life’s crucial junctures, wanting to take a new step forward, or wishing to overcome difficulties—Hachiman Okami’s powerful protection will surely support you from behind. Experience the power of the deity who has shaped Japanese history at this sacred ground.
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*Information in this article is current as of December 2025. Please verify the latest details via the official website before visiting.*
