Yui Wakamiya (Moto-Hachiman)
由比若宮（元八幡）
The original shrine from which Tsurugaoka Hachimangu descended. Founded in 1063 when Minamoto no Yoriyoshi, giving thanks for victory in the Former Nine Years' War, invited the deity of Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine in Kyoto, this site — also known as "Moto-Hachiman" — can be considered the very starting point of Kamakura's samurai government.
The origin of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu
In 1063, the year after Minamoto no Yoriyoshi and his son Yoshiie subdued the Abe clan of Mutsu in the Former Nine Years' War, Yoriyoshi invited the deity of Kyoto's Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine to this site in Yui in gratitude for the victory — marking the start of Yui Wakamiya. Minamoto no Yoritomo later relocated it to its present site in Yukinoshita, which became today's Tsurugaoka Hachimangu.
Why it's called "Moto-Hachiman"
Since this shrine was the origin ("moto") of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, it's also known as "Moto-Hachiman," an essential historical site for tracing the roots of the Kamakura samurai government. Much smaller than today's Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, it sits quietly within a peaceful residential neighborhood.
A hidden historic site in the Zaimokuza area
Located within the residential streets of Zaimokuza, its quiet setting contrasts sharply with the bustling crowds at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. Visitors can worship in stillness while reflecting on the history of the Minamoto clan that predates the founding of the Kamakura shogunate.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
A season to visit amid cherry blossoms within the quiet residential streets.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
With few visitors, you can worship in the shade, staying cool.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
An easy stop during a walk through Zaimokuza and Yuigahama.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
In the stillness of the grounds, you can quietly sense the origins of the Kamakura samurai government.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 10 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Far fewer visitors than Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, allowing a quiet visit
- Best time to visit
- Best visited alongside a walk through the Zaimokuza and Yuigahama area
| Address | 1-7 Zaimokuza, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open access to the grounds |
| Admission | Free |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 15 min walk from Kamakura Station (JR Yokosuka Line / Enoshima Electric Railway)
- 1 min walk from Kamakura Station (By bus to "Moto-Hachiman" stop, then about a 1-minute walk)